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State of Human Rights Report 2015 [2015] WSNHRIRp 1 (1 January 2015)

STATE OF HUMAN RIGHTS REPORT 2015

“For Samoa, By Samoa”

STATEMENT FROM THE OMBUDSMAN

The Government of Samoa remains committed to the progressive realisation of human rights, and as such, it is with great honour that I present this country’s very first State of Human Rights Report to Members of Parliament. Preparation of this document was no small feat, but as the National Human Rights Institution, our Office has faithfully dedicated itself to this task despite its limited human and financial resources. This Report has been produced as a result of the hard work and dedication of my staff and the cooperation between this Office and the relevant stakeholders. It is in this spirit of cooperation that we seek to work with the Government in order to ensure that human rights are protected everyday for everyone in Samoa.

Human rights are not merely foreign ideals as many wish to see them, but they have roots within Samoan culture also. A take home point from this Report is that the weaving together of Fa’asamoa and human rights principles will make a stronger and more harmonious society. In that way, this Report truly is “for Samoa, by Samoa.”

May there be continuous blessings over the people of Samoa.

Soifua ma ia manuia,

Maiava Iulai Toma
Ombudsman

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