Domestic Violence in Samoa

Given the high rates of family violence in Samoa, this book aims to contribute to research and education to support its prevention and response. It adopts a predominantly legal perspective, examining the intersection of criminal law, international law, and Samoan customary law, while recognising the cultural, religious, and social context in which family violence occurs. It argues that effective responses must be founded in Samoan communities, led by Samoan people, and grounded in fa‘asamoa (the “Samoan way”). The publication incorporates a literature review and interviews with individuals working to address family violence in Samoa. One of its key findings is that community education is urgently needed to strengthen culturally, religiously, and legally informed approaches at village and family levels and to empower Samoan communities. The book examines the Samoan cultural and socio-legal context, the criminalisation of family violence under Samoan and international law, comparative approaches in other jurisdictions, existing prevention and response initiatives, and the innovative work of Samoa’s Family Violence Court. It assesses progress to date, identifies remaining challenges, and considers how culturally grounded responses can strengthen future efforts. Drawing on comparative experiences from three overseas jurisdictions, it explores lessons that may inform reforms while recognising that responses must be tailored to the Samoan context rather than transplanted from elsewhere. The book is intended for practitioners, service providers, policymakers, researchers, and others working to prevent and respond to family violence in Samoa, as well as readers interested in family violence law, legal reform, and culturally appropriate justice initiatives. While no single project can eliminate family violence, this publication seeks to contribute to ongoing efforts to reduce harm and support safer Samoan families and communities.