Samoa

The Independent State of Samoa is an archipelago of islands, nine of which are inhabited. There is a high population growth rate, offset by a high emigration [Page 1273]rate. More than 90 percent of the population is ethnic Samoan and Christian. The culture emphasizes traditional Samoan social values, known as fa'a, and Christian beliefs. There are no legal or religious obstacles to equality, and many women enjoy good educational opportunities. Key women's issues include domestic violence and a lack of employment and political opportunities.

Samoan families are generally extended in nature, with membership based on heredity, land, and titles. The fertility rate is high, at 4.16 births per woman, and the infant mortality rate is 24.22 per 1,000 live births. Family members are expected to provide for each other's welfare. Domestic abuse is common and usually handled at the village level without police involvement. All family members are responsible for teaching children traditional values such as deference, politeness, and obedience to elders. Children begin chores at a young age. Education is valued and available through both public schools and missionary schools. Both genders receive an average of 12 years of education. The state supports the National University as well as nursing, teacher training, and trade schools. Many Samoans pursue higher education abroad. The literacy rate is equal at close to 100 percent for both men and women.

The population is mostly rural. There is government healthcare available at a nominal cost, but many residents combine Western-style medicine with traditional medical practices, often distinguishing between Samoan and non-Samoan illnesses. An increasingly Westernized diet has led to growing rates of diabetes. The state provides a social security system with a small old-age pension. Life expectancy for women is 75 years; for men it is 69 years.

The main employers are agriculture and industry, although there is also tourism and its related service industries. Traditional labor is divided by gender. Child labor, underemployment, and the exodus of skilled workers are problems. Women have become increasingly visible in modern Samoan public life. Suffrage is universal, and the constitution provides for equality, but women are still largely excluded from public offices. There is a state Women's Affairs Ministry. Nongovernmental organizations, most religious-based, include the Mothers’ Club, Federation of Women's Committees, South-East Asia and Pan-Pacific Women's Association, and Mapusaga O Aiga Samoa.