Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy 2026–2030 Published to Strengthen Global Irish Connections
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Strategy covering 2026 to 2030
The Government has published Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy 2026–2030, setting out a five-year framework to deepen engagement with Irish communities worldwide and strengthen the relationship between Ireland and its global diaspora. The strategy, developed following an extensive consultation process, outlines 23 commitments across key thematic areas including wellbeing, culture, economic contribution and support for emigrants and returnees.
The strategy is the third of its kind and is informed by nine months of consultation, including in-person engagements in 27 cities across 17 countries and the first global online survey of the Irish abroad, which received over 10,000 responses. It adopts a broad definition of the diaspora, encompassing Irish citizens abroad, those of Irish ancestry, and individuals with a strong affinity to Ireland.
At its core, the strategy prioritises a people-centred approach, with a continued focus on supporting vulnerable Irish citizens overseas through the Emigrant Support Programme (ESP), which has provided over €265 million to more than 900 organisations globally since 2004. The 2026 allocation for diaspora support has reached €17.5 million, the highest to date.
Five key themes underpin the strategy: wellbeing and advocacy; identity and culture; connection and contribution; departure and return; and sharing Ireland’s experience internationally. These reflect issues raised during consultations, including mental health, cultural identity, access to information, and barriers to returning to Ireland such as employment, public services and administrative processes.
The strategy also recognises the economic and diplomatic value of the diaspora, highlighting its role in supporting trade, investment and international relationships. New measures include strengthening diaspora business networks, enhancing engagement through embassies and consulates, and launching updated digital platforms such as a Global Irish Hub and Diaspora Directory.
In addition, the Government has committed to improving supports for those emigrating and returning to Ireland. This includes expanding pre-departure guidance, enhancing the Returning to Ireland information portal, and addressing practical challenges such as recognition of qualifications and access to public services.
The strategy will be implemented through a dedicated action plan, with ongoing engagement including Global Irish Civic Forums and a follow-up survey to assess progress.
Further information and the full strategy document are available here:
There is no active public consultation associated with this publication; however, the strategy itself is the outcome of a broad consultation process involving Irish communities at home and abroad.
The Public Consultation Institute of Ireland (PCII) is committed to engaging citizens and empowering communities through the use of emerging technologies, which are transforming how the Government and citizens communicate and interact. PCII’s mission is to bring more people into the public participatory process. Not only will this expand informed public engagement, early studies suggest that it is likely to enhance the diversity and quality of participation. View a list of public consultations currently open at https://www.publicconsultation.ie/haveyoursay