Each year we update the global mapping of diaspora engagement conducted in 2019-20. The latest update, with information from 2023 is now available via the global map, regional pages and library. There are 10 new countries added, as well as new practices to learn from and newly inaugurated institutions.

EUDiF started with the mammoth task of mapping diaspora engagement worldwide. Between 2019 and 2020 we worked with regional experts to develop factsheets about different policies, priorities and practices around the world, as well as identifying the government institutions involved and relevant diaspora organisations based in Europe. This global mapping has been the basis of all our subsequent work, from research to dialogue, through to capacity development. As diaspora engagement is such a dynamic space, we update the mapping each year so as to capture new trends and ensure the mapping remains a useful tool for all in the sector.

The 2023 update of the global mapping of diaspora engagement, is now available. It provides valuable insights into global trends and best practices, explore it all via the interactive map:

What’s new from 2023?

First up,  there are 10 new country factsheets, bringing us to a total of 120. You can now learn about diaspora engagement in Belize, Laos, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Panama, São Tomé-et-Príncipe, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Uruguay.

Across the full mapping, as well as updating the core statistics on remittances and emigration, we have added new spotlight initiatives from all four corners of the earth and policy updates – four countries have launched diaspora engagement policies since the last update: Armenia,  Ghana, Somalia, and Timor-Leste.

While the main global trends remain consistent (i.e. increasing remittances, attracting investment, creating links with the diaspora through events and network building), we have also noticed new global trends: 

• The absolute need for data to create better informed policies and initiatives. Governments and diaspora organisations alike need to know and understand the needs and aspirations of the diaspora to effectively engage with them.
• There is growing effort on local-level development. Initiatives are increasingly prioritising local ownership and participation, for example by including local partners in their design. EUDiF capacity development actions follow this model.
• The inclusivity of engagement is taking greater precedence. This can mean including women, youth, people with disabilities and individuals from different ethnic and religious backgrounds in the planning and implementation of diaspora engagement initiatives. This trend is mostly pushed forwards by institutional players such as the EU and the UN requiring more inclusive programming from the actors of the ecosystem.
• There is a shift from family remittances towards more productive use of remittances. This is supported by strengthening financial inclusion.

In addition, each region also has its own specific trends and distinct practices. Explore the different countries to learn more about hot initiatives in the region that you are most interested in.

Why is this mapping important?

EUDiF’s vision is for an informed, inclusive and impactful diaspora-development ecosystem. The global mapping is the keystone of our evidence-based approach to the project and the support we offer within and beyond project activities. The mapping ensures… 

• Centralised knowledge: The mapping serves as a one-stop shop for information on diaspora engagement policies, practices, and priorities across the globe.
• Up-to-date information: Updated yearly since its launch in 2019, the mapping ensures you have access to the latest developments in this dynamic field.
• Informed decision-making: By providing a comprehensive picture of the landscape, the mapping empowers policymakers and stakeholders to design effective and relevant initiatives.
• Global learning and collaboration: The mapping fosters knowledge sharing and collaboration between different regions, encouraging better-informed approaches to diaspora engagement.

We know that each person finds information in a different way, so navigate the mapping from a global perspective, by region or go directly to the country that interests you most! All factsheets are available through the global map, the regional pages, or directly through the library.

Looking for more?

Recently, we launched a practice database that allows you to search for practices by topics and SDGs, in addition to geographical location. The practices in the database come from the mapping, as well as other EUDiF activities – and we are always happy to add new practices. You can submit your own practices for consideration via this form.

If you are interested to explore diaspora engagement by stakeholder type, start with the typology of diaspora engagement institutions, an analysis of over 400 government institutions, their types and areas of work.  Learn about the evolution of the institutional landscape at national and regional level. The mirror resource on diaspora organisations is our starting guide, so named because of the incredible hyper-diversity of diaspora organisations whose surface we scratch.

We hope that these resources will help you in your own efforts in diaspora engagement and allow you to discover new possibilities for collaboration.

Did we miss something? Email eu-diaspora@icmpd.org if so! We gather information throughout the year and are always pleased to include contributions sent in by members of the community.