1. National Human Rights Institutions NHRIs are independent bodies established to protect and hold governments to account for their human rights obligations. They are the institutions which link the international human rights system to the domestic level, interpret human rights within the national context and take action to ensure the wide enjoyment of those rights. They also help to shape laws, policies and attitudes that create stronger, fairer societies.1 The Samoa NHRI was established in the already existing Office of the Ombudsman (Office) under the Ombudsman Act 2013. In 2016, the Office was awarded ‘A’ status by the international accrediting body, the Global Alliance for NHRIs. Accreditation at the highest level (A status) reflects international recognition of the independence of the Office and its record in effectively promoting and protecting human rights in Samoa since its establishment in 2013. It is currently the only NHRI to hold this status among the small Pacific Island nations. 2. National Public Inquiries The Ombudsman Act 2013 gives the Office wide-ranging duties and powers to promote and protect human rights in Samoa. One of its functions is to inquire into widespread, systemic or entrenched situations or practices that violate human rights.2 This can take the form of a ‘National Public Inquiry’. A National Public Inquiry enables a broad human rights approach and examination of a large and complex situation where the general public is invited to participate. It has both fact-finding and educational roles and has been used to great success by NHRIs globally. It results in the production of a report that sets out the evidence received, analysis of the situation and recommendations addressed to Government, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), the private sector and any other relevant stakeholders. The Inquiry is the first exercise of its type to be undertaken in Samoa and anywhere in the Pacific islands. 1 Asia Pacific Forum of NHRIs. “What are national human rights institutions?” Retrieved from http://www.asiapacificforum.net/support/what-are-nhris/. Accessed 30 May 2018. 2 See section 34 of the Ombudsman Act 2013.