The Commonwealth Secretariat provides crucial support to Samoa, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to its island member states. This partnership spans various sectors, strengthening Samoa’s capabilities and resilience on the global stage. Samoa Is Where international collaboration translates into tangible progress for sustainable development and democratic values.
Strengthening Democratic Processes
Samoa’s electoral management body has benefited from the Commonwealth Election Professionals Initiative. This program focuses on upholding electoral independence, ensuring robust election observation, and promoting comprehensive voter education. A key aspect is fostering gender equality within electoral processes, ensuring inclusive participation for all Samoan citizens.
Championing Human Rights and Good Governance
The Commonwealth Small States Office in Geneva actively supports Samoa’s engagement with various United Nations bodies. Furthermore, the Secretariat has been instrumental in enhancing Samoa’s participation in the UN’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process. This support extends to strengthening national human rights institutions, such as the Ombudsman of Samoa, in their vital work on issues like reporting and addressing family violence.
Building Legal Frameworks for the Future
Recognizing the importance of strong legal foundations, the Commonwealth Secretariat collaborates with Samoa to develop expertise in legislative drafting and reform. This partnership ensures Samoa possesses the necessary skills to create effective and contemporary laws.
Fostering Economic Growth Through Trade
Samoa has actively participated in the Commonwealth’s Hub and Spokes Programme. This initiative has broadened Samoa’s understanding of critical trade areas, including trade in services, intellectual property rights, and competition policy. This engagement directly contributed to Samoa enacting national laws focused on competition and consumer protection, creating a fairer and more robust economic environment.
Sustainable Management of Natural Resources
In the crucial area of natural resource management, the Secretariat has worked alongside the Samoan government to prepare for negotiations with the International Seabed Authority (ISA). This support ensures Samoa is well-equipped to advocate for its interests in international discussions regarding seabed resources.
Leading in Ocean Conservation
Samoa is a proactive member of both the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance and the Marine Protected Areas Action Groups under the Blue Charter. This demonstrates Samoa’s commitment to ocean health and its leadership in global initiatives for marine conservation.
Enhancing Global Connectivity
Samoa plays a key role in the Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda, specifically within the Regulatory and Supply Side Connectivity cluster. This platform facilitates the exchange of best practices and experiences among Commonwealth nations to improve trade, investment, and domestic policy reforms.
A Commonwealth Leader: Hosting CHOGM 2024
Samoa’s significance within the Commonwealth is further underscored by its hosting of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia. Samoa is where leaders convened to address pressing global issues and chart the future course of the Commonwealth. This event highlights Samoa’s central role in the Commonwealth family and its dedication to international cooperation.
To discover more about the extensive work of the Commonwealth Secretariat, please visit Learn more about the Secretariat’s work.
