The Report discusses key issues associated with the freedom of opinion and expression. It also discusses the right of access to information and its connection in enabling citizens to express views on important matters. To better understand the key issues raised during consultations, the Report explores various aspects of the concerned rights and freedoms including – defamation; hate speech; freedom of expression and political rights; freedom of expression and the media; the internet, freedom of expression, and safety of children online; right of access to information, and whistleblower protection. The Report also considers various contexts in which such freedoms and rights are and may be restricted or curtailed. Contained within the Report are a number of recommendations to relevant Government ministries and agencies to ensure the continuous protection and promotion of such rights and freedoms in Samoa. The recommendations relate to three broad categories: (1) outreach and awareness, (2) legislative reform and policy, (3) resourcing and capacity building. The Report endeavors to highlight the status of freedom of opinion and expression in Samoa – how they are applied, protected and promoted, and where improvements could be made for their progressive realization. State of Human Rights Report 2021 |7