Country Capacity Assessment on Trafficking in Persons: Samoa

IOM is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society.

This report evaluates the Samoa’s ability to address human trafficking, particularly in the fishing industry. It is developed under the project “Supporting Safe and Decent Working Conditions on Fishing Vessels in the Pacific” and from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) under the project “Labour Standards on Fishing Vessels”.

The assessment, informed by primary data collection and technical inputs from IOM and UNODC, covers five key areas: legislation and policy, coordination and partnerships, prevention, protection, and prosecution. The findings highlight gaps in legislation, lack of coordination mechanisms, insufficient training and resources for victim protection, and the need for proactive measures in prevention and prosecution. Recommendations include developing comprehensive anti-trafficking laws, establishing a national action plan, enhancing coordination, and improving training and resources for relevant stakeholders.