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Anti-Corruption Efforts in Samoa: A Commitment to Good Governance

In a speech delivered at the Tenth Session of the Conference of States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, Mr. Perelini Perelini, Commissioner and Representative of the Independent State of Samoa, emphasized the country’s commitment to preventing corruption and promoting good governance.

Challenges and Vulnerabilities

Samoa, a small island developing state in the Pacific, has faced unique vulnerabilities, including:

  • Climate change
  • Biodiversity loss
  • Pandemics
  • Energy crises

Despite these challenges, corruption remains a significant obstacle, eroding trust and undermining democratic strength.

Anti-Corruption Efforts

In 2018, Samoa acceded to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. Since then, the country has made notable strides in strengthening its anti-corruption measures. Key initiatives include:

  • The Public Service Commission developed the first national anti-corruption policy, aligned with Article 5 of the Convention
  • Training programs to promote professional standards in line with the Public Service Act 2004
  • Commitment to strengthening integrity and quality of leadership, performance, and ethical behavior

Citizen Participation

Citizen participation is central to Samoa’s democratic processes. The country has created a platform for dialogue with vulnerable groups such as:

  • Youth
  • Women
  • People with disabilities

Capacity Building and Training

Samoa continues to upskill officials in areas such as:

  • Forensic accounting
  • Anti-corruption
  • Money laundering
  • Drug trafficking
  • Fraud investigation
  • Financial and operational audits

The country has also recognized the important role of the media industry in holding government accountable for its actions and inactions.

Country Review and Reforms

Samoa has completed its first country review with assistance from the UNODC UNCAC team and is currently undergoing its second review. As a result of the first review, Samoa’s Crimes Act 2013 is being revised to reflect recommendations made by the review team.

Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

The government remains committed to fully realizing the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, which are linked to national and regional efforts to implement:

  • The 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent
  • The SAMOA Pathway
  • The Paris Agreement