Samoa
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
84 / 100
Free
Samoa has a democratic political system with regular elections, though the same political party had been in government for decades until 2021, and only traditional heads of families are eligible to run as candidates. The judiciary is independent, and civil liberties are generally respected.
Research & Recommendations
Samoa
Free
84
100
| PR Political Rights | 32 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 52 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
84
100
Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
Overview
Samoa has a democratic political system with regular elections, though only traditional heads of families are eligible to run for office, and until 2021 the same political party had been in power for decades. An opposition party won the 2021 elections and remained in government as of 2024. The judiciary is independent, and civil liberties are generally respected.
Freedom in the World 2025 Policy Recommendations
Prioritize strengthening the rule of law and delivering economic dividends in the aftermath of political transitions
In countries where democratic forces have come to power after periods of antidemocratic rule, the new governments should pursue an agenda that protects and expands freedoms even as it delivers tangible economic and social benefits to citizens.
In countries emerging from war or the collapse of authoritarian regimes, focus on safety, reconciliation, reform
These countries must act swiftly to release all political prisoners, build or revitalize democratic institutions, reform police and other security forces, organize and hold competitive multiparty elections, and ensure accountability for past human rights violations.
Bolster checks and balances to mitigate the threat of democratic backsliding
In countries where there has been significant erosion of political rights and civil liberties, policymakers, legislators, jurists, civic activists, and donor communities should work to strengthen institutional guardrails and norms that serve to constrain elected leaders with antidemocratic or illiberal aims.
News and Updates
Featured
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
84
/ 100
Free
Population: 222,382
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
