Britain urged Samoa to widen protections for vulnerable groups and sustain independent journalism, setting three priorities during a review of the Pacific island nation’s rights record at the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva.
In a statement published Nov. 5, the UK called for stronger help for women and girls affected by violence and for national policies to prevent it to be put into practice. It also urged Samoa to let journalists and media organizations work independently, and to improve inclusion for people with disabilities, children and gender-diverse communities, including fair access to education and public services.
The UK pointed to violence against women and girls and Samoa’s drop in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index as concerns. It welcomed Samoa’s cooperation with the review and highlighted Mataafa Utumapu’s election as the first Samoan to join the U.N. body focused on disability rights.
The statement also recognized the role of civil society groups and independent institutions in helping vulnerable communities and reinforcing democratic accountability.
