The NGO Environment in Samoa: a Case Study of the Socio-Political Environment's Impact on Local NGOs

Abstract

This research paper examines the social and political challenges and development of local NGOs in Samoa, and the impacts these factors play in Samoan NGO practice. The overall aim of this paper was to qualitatively measure whether or not the NGO environment in Samoa is significantly confined. To ascertain this, background research has been focussed around global NGO trends and influences affecting Southern countries, regional NGO trends and influences affecting Pacific Island countries and finally trends and developments impacting on a national level in Samoa. The fieldwork interviews themselves took place in Apia, Samoa with eleven leaders from a cross-section of local NGOs. Interviews were semi-structured, with a strong focus on creating an informal environment in which to openly discuss interview questions. The qualitative evidence emerging from this research paper suggests that the NGO environment in Samoa is significantly confined by the social and political environment. The indication is that the environment tends to be dominated by an, at times, negative role of the state, NGO competition and deficits in sustainability. In general the case study findings show strong parallels with international NGO trends. However, due to the relatively small population base in Samoa, strong kinship linkages and economic distance some of these global trends and pressures show evidence of being intensified.