Samoa Signs Cooperation Agreement to Strengthen Migration Governance

Apia, Samoa – 14 December 2023: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) based in Apia has signed a cooperation agreement with the Samoa Government aimed at strengthening the partnerships for future efforts in migration governance.

The agreement was signed by 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. This contributes 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.