OFISA O LE KOMESINA SULUFAIGA
Office of the Ombudsman | National Human Rights Institution
"Dignity, Protection, Equality and Fairness for All"
- SNPF Plaza Level 2
- info@ombudsman.gov.ws
- (+685) 25394
Talofa and Welcome to the Official Website of
OFFICE OF THE OMBUDSMAN
National Human Rights Institution
Lodging A complaint
Call us on 25394
Good Governance
Special Investigations
Human Rights
complaints@ombudsman.gov.ws
WRITE TO US
either post to PO Box 3036,
Apia
or drop off to our Office
VISIT US
Level 2, SNPF Plaza, Savalalo
Our Vision, Mission & Values
The Office of the Ombudsman also Samoa’s National Human Rights Institution provides advice to the general public on matters relating to good governance and investigate practices of maladministration of government agencies. It also carries out research and conducts activities in the promotion and protection of human rights in Samoa and conducts investigations concerning the abuse of power by enforcement agencies.
"Integrity in governance and respect
for human rights "
for human rights "
Our Vision
Our Mission
providing effective, timely and independent complaints resolution services on matters of maladministration and misuse of authority by prescribed disciplinary forces
empowering all people to understand and exercise their human rights and responsibilities
holding government accountable to good governance and human rights standards and obligations
building and strengthening partnerships that encourages action on good governance and human rights
Our Services
The Good Governance function of the Office is to foster good administration within Government ministries and agencies to the satisfaction of the stakeholders, the people of Samoa.
The Human Rights Unit functions to bridge the “protection gap” between the rights of individuals and responsibilities of the State.
The Special Investigations Unit functions to address misconduct in agencies exercising the coercive powers of the state (i.e. the Police, Prisons and other disciplined forces)
The Engagement and Communications Unit support the overall engagement and communication of the Office to its partners, stakeholders and the public.
The Corporate Services Unit is tasked with the daily management and support of all Office Operations in administration, finance and human resources.
Latest News
The Human Rights Unit (HRU) participated in the final phase of the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions Gender Strategy Programme in Kuala Lumpur, co-hosted by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), strengthening efforts to integrate gender equality into NHRI work.
19 - 21 January 2026
The Office welcomed Lisa Wylde, an Australian Volunteer with over 30 years of experience in communications and training, who commenced on 19 January 2026. She completed her induction with the Corporate Services Unit and began learning about the work of the Office’s various units.
23 January 2026
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) conducted detention inspections across Upolu and Savai‘i, including prisons, juvenile facilities, and police holding cells. The visits assessed human rights conditions, interviewed staff and detainees, and supported compliance with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules).
February 2 -5 2025
The Good Governance Unit (GGU) delivered a Public Agency Information Session to over 30 staff from the Samoa Water Authority in Savaiʻi, covering the Ombudsman’s mandate, complaint processes, and principles of fairness and natural justice in public service.
19 February 2025
Related Links
Other Ombudsman / Human Rights Organisations / Network
Ombudsman / Human Rights (International Partners)
Non-Government Organisations (Human Rights Allies)
Government Ministries & Constitutional Offices (Local Partners)