Supporting the Government of Samoa to Strengthen Passenger Data Exchange Systems

  • Start Date
    2023
  • End Date
    2025
  • Project Status
    Active
  • Project Type
    Immigration and Borders
  • Budget Amount (USD)
    300000.00
  • Coverage
    National
  • Year
    2023
  • IDF Region
    Asia and Oceania
  • Prima ID
    WS10P0502
  • Projects ID
    IB.0394
  • Benefiting Member States
    Samoa
The Pacific region faces the challenges of managing diverse illicit dynamics, including transnational crime and human trafficking, requiring attention and concerted efforts. The vast geographical expanse, coupled with the porous nature of jurisdictional boundaries and disparities in governance and law enforcement capabilities, make the region particularly susceptible to these phenomena. Consequently, Pacific Island nations, like Samoa, serve as both origins, transit points, and destinations for these illicit flows. Vis-à-vis these challenges, in January 2023 the Government of the Independent State of Samoa formally requested participation in the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel (CT Travel) Programme. The CT Travel Programme is a prominent global initiative that supports beneficiary Member States in developing their capabilities to detect and counter terrorists and serious criminals. It achieves this by utilizing Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) data to enhance the use of international databases containing information on known and suspected terrorists and criminals. Additionally, the program facilitates international information exchange. This project aims to enhance border security measures and facilitate safe, orderly, and humane migration in the Independent State of Samoa by enhancing the Government of Samoa's ability to utilize API and PNR data and passenger data exchange systems, through the establishment of a Passenger Information Unit (PIU). The PIU will serve as a multi-agency entity proficient in gathering, analysing, and sharing passenger information among relevant government agencies. Through this development, the Government of Samoa will be able to conduct passenger screening and processing more efficiently. The implementation of this IOM Development Fund project will be coordinated and conducted in partnership with the CT Travel Programme in Samoa. Ultimately, the project aligns with IOM's comprehensive approach to migration management, which seeks to reduce the risks and human costs associated with irregular migration and related crimes.