Samoa: Universal non-Christian religion ban unlikely

Written By Paul Prouse

On 24 December 2025, Prime Minister Schmidt announced that his government was considering a  ban on non-Christian religions from Samoa. He cited concerns about religious extremism and violence, noting recent attacks on Christians and Jews in Australia and New Zealand. He asked the National Council of Churches to lead the review and provide advice.

Assessment: A universal ban is unlikely. Around 6 January, PM Schmidt instructed officials to open an embassy in Israel. PM Schmidt’s announcement instead suggests a continued consolidation of Christian influence in Samoa’s governance. Since a 2017 amendment declaring making Samoa a Christian rather than secular nation, its leadership and policies have increasingly favored Christianity. Any action is likely to target select religions or sects deemed “violent” or “extreme,” either through a ban or governmental controls.

Sources: “Samoa Considers Constitutional Amendment against Non-Christian Religions,” Samoa Global News, December 29, 2025; Netani Rika, “Samoa considers ban on non-Christian religions,” Island Business, January 1, 2026.

Paul Prouse
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