Violence against females in Samoa: 1970s-2000

Abstract

Violence against females (VAF) is a topic which has been the subject of a great deal of research, throughout much of the globe. Despite this, very little research has been done on VAF within the context of Samoa. The research that has been done concentrated on only certain dimensions of the larger issue. Much has focused on domestic forms of violence and violence perpetrated by current or former intimate partners. This focus has influenced the measures developed by the government to eliminate the issue, as majority of the legislation targets violence within families. This thesis looks at examining VAF in Samoa during the 1970s through to the year 2000. The first account of VAF was the Mapusaga O Aiga study in 1995. Prior to this date the only records were only within government archives. This study utilizes an archive of criminal record books to illustrate the occurrence of VAF outside of the focus on domestic violence and violence perpetrated by intimate partners. Moreover, it traces the transformation of perceptions in relation of VAF in Samoa during this time period. Through the incorporation of relevant literature as well as the findings presented through the criminal record books and the Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute, this thesis hopes to begin discussions around the occurrence of VAF outside of the usual focus so as to influence and allow for a more holistic approach to eliminate VAF in Samoa.