Samoa Country Report
Unlike many of its Pacific neighbors, Samoa has enjoyed relative political stability since its independence. However, although the country is smaller than its Pacific Island neighbors, there are concerns about corruption in the public and private sectors, and the rule of law is sometimes ignored.
The level of serious criminal activity in the country is relatively low, but petty theft, especially targeting foreign tourists, is a concern. Especially in Apia, there are many cases of night violence against tourists.
Since the country is located in the South Pacific Ocean, it is prone to hurricanes and earthquakes. Hurricanes are common during the tropical cyclone season from November to April, but other times of the year can also be affected by extreme weather. The level of impact is likely to be even greater due to the lack of funds to fully implement the government’s preparedness and recovery plans. Health care in this country is very limited and some prescription drugs may not be available.
Last updated: September 9, 2022
Security
Although the level of serious criminal activity in the country is relatively low, petty theft is a concern, many of which target foreign tourists. Especially in Apia, there are many cases of night violence against tourists.
Last updated: May 12, 2022
Infrastructure
Air and ground travel in Samoa is not a major concern. However, travel options are somewhat limited. Bad weather can disrupt travel, while floods and landslides caused by rain can cause significant damage to critical infrastructure.
Last updated: May 12, 2022
Environment
Samoa’s location in the South Pacific makes it vulnerable to hurricanes and earthquakes. Hurricanes are common during the tropical cyclone season from November to April, but other times of the year can also be affected by extreme weather. This country is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences earthquakes of different strength. A large offshore earthquake can trigger a tsunami, and the country has already seen large waves.
Last updated: July 7, 2023
Health and Medical
Medical care is limited in Samoa, and serious injuries or illnesses usually require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand. There are also problems with the availability of drugs in the country, and some prescription drugs may be difficult to obtain. Outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika are generally localized but occur regularly, especially during the rainy season. There is also a risk of water and food poisoning.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
Political
Samoa has enjoyed great political stability since independence in 1962. There is no credible threat to the current government. But corruption, both in the public and private sectors, is a concern, albeit a small one compared to its Pacific neighbors. The rule of law is sometimes ignored.
Last updated: September 9, 2022
