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53rd Universal Periodic Review of human rights: UK Statement on Samoa

UK Statement at Samoa's Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

From:
UK Mission to the WTO, UN and other international organisations (Geneva)
Published:
5 November 2026

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

The UK welcomes Samoa’s engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process and its cooperation with international human rights mechanisms.

We commend Samoa’s efforts to promote the rights of persons with disabilities, including the historic election of Mataafa Utumapu to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the first Samoan to serve on that body.

The UK recognises the important role of Samoa’s civil society organisations and independent institutions in supporting vulnerable communities and strengthening democratic accountability.

However, challenges remain. We’re concerned by the prevalence of violence against women and girls. We also note concerns regarding media freedom and the decline in Samoa’s ranking in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, underscoring the importance of protecting independent journalism and freedom of expression.

The UK recommends Samoa:

  1. Strengthens measures to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls through improved victim support services and implementation of national policies.

  2. Safeguards freedom of expression by ensuring journalists and media organisations can operate independently and without undue restriction.

  3. Promotes the inclusion and protection of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, children and gender-diverse communities, ensuring equitable access to education and public services.

Thank you.