Vulnerability in Samoa

Abstract

As a small island developing state, Samoa is expected to be particularly vulnerable to climate change. Projected sea level rise could increase coastal erosion, cause loss of land and property, and dislocate island inhabitants. Changes in tropical cyclone systems may alter risks to life, property and ecosystems. Water supplies and food security could be threatened by changes in climate. As a Least Developed Country, Samoa is considered to have limited ability to cope with the risks associated with changes in climate. This has been recognized by the international community, and in Article 4.4 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which makes explicit commitments to the most vulnerable developing countries: