Society in Samoa
An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Social Domains
Demographics
Public Health
Education & Human Capital
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Current Social Overview of Samoa
A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.
- Samoa has an estimated population of 217K2023, with a modest annual growth rate of 0.6%2023, suggesting a mature demographic transition with stable, but limitated, population increase. With a fertility rate of 3.8 births per woman2023, the population maintains momentum, necessitating strategic investments in social infrastructure. Substantial net emigration of approximately 3K individuals annually (or 12.7 per 1,000 inhabitants)2024exacerbates demographic challenges, potentially leading to 'brain drain' and diminished economic capacity.
- Regarding public health, Healthcare outcomes show foundational progress with a life expectancy of 71.7 years2023, yet significant disparities or developmental gaps may still exist. Concurrently, Healthcare delivery faces significant systemic challenges, as evidenced by elevated child mortality (under 5 years) (15.7 per 1,000 live births2023and maternal mortality (101 per 100,000 live births2023) rates, suggesting areas for critical intervention and resource allocation. These outcomes are supported by a moderate commitment to health system development, with 6.3% of GDP directed to healthcare expenditure2022.
- The country boasts exceptional educational attainment with a near-universal adult literacy rate of 99%2021, establishing a robust foundation for a knowledge-based economy. Complementing this, educational access shows solid progress through 94% primary enrollment2018and 84% secondary participation rates2016. This educational framework is supported by robust public investment, with 6.1% of GDP dedicated to education spending2023, underscoring a strong commitment to human capital development.
- In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, the primarily rural population distribution (82% rural population2023) presents distinct challenges for universal infrastructure provision, service access, and economic modernization. Furthermore, basic infrastructure coverage includes 100% electricity access2023. However, digital connectivity at {currentInternet}% internet penetration2023indicates significant opportunities for further digital transformation and economic inclusion.
Key Development Insights
Population Dynamics
Managing demographic trends is crucial for long-term economic planning and workforce stability.
Public Health System
Public health outcomes are a core indicator of national development and quality of life. Access to healthcare is essential for sustainable growth.
Human Capital Formation
Educational attainment is a direct driver of economic innovation and global competitiveness. Investment in education is key to unlocking human potential.
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Infrastructure shapes economic efficiency, urbanization patterns, and digital integration, being critical for modern economies.
More About This Country
Neighbors & Regional Peers
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.