The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Government of
Independent Sate of Samoa signed on 13 December a cooperation agreement, aimed at
strengthening the partnerships for future efforts in migration governance.
The agreement was signed by Honourable Tuala Tevaga Ponifasio, Deputy Prime Minister of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Jacqueline Weekers, IOM Chief of Mission – Australia and
Coordinator for New Zealand and the Pacific.
Migration plays a vital role for socio-economic development of Samoa. Labour mobility, for instance,
provides a valuable source of income for Samoan migrant workers and their families. It also offers an
opportunity to gain new experiences, knowledge and skills, which serves as a precious asset for
national development. Additionally, like many Pacific countries, Samoa is highly vulnerable to
natural hazards and climate-induced emergencies, which also makes climate mobility a key topic to
be addressed. The country is specifically at risk to tropical cyclones, storms, tsunamis, and sea level
rise.
Formalizing the relationship between Samoan Government and IOM provides a tremendous
opportunity for the country to address challenges of ever-growing complexity surrounding
migration.
“Present on the ground, IOM will be able to assess concretely the local migration contexts and listen
to migrants and stakeholders. The partnership also empowers IOM to work more closely with the
Government and relevant stakeholders to develop tailored, effective responses to rapidly shifting
dynamics of migration in Samoa,” said Jacqueline Weekers.
With funding from the Government of Japan, IOM Samoa is currently implementing a regional
project to improve border control capacity and response to infectious diseases in Pacific Island
countries, contributing to socio-economic recovery from the pandemic of COVID-19 and gradual
resumption of border management operations. As part of the project, IOM is supporting the
Government of Samoa in upgrading the border management system to enhance border security.
Through the partnership, IOM looks forward to increasing collaboration with the Government,
further contributing to Samoa’s efforts to ensure migration benefits for all.
For more information, please contact Kazumi Nakamura at IOM Samoa Office at
knakamura@iom.int.