Fiji participates in the international conference on the future agenda of action for global diaspora engagement

Fiji recently participated in the International Conference on the Future Agenda of Action for Global Diaspora Engagement, held in Sal, Cabo Verde held on 12-13 September, 2024. The two-day event, organized in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), brought together global leaders, policymakers, and diaspora stakeholders to explore strategies for enhancing diaspora contributions to national and global development.

Fiji’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Mr Jovilisi Suveinakama represented Fiji at the Conference and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to engage our global diaspora as a catalyst for sustainable national development.

In his address, High Commissioner Suveinakama highlighted the substantial impact of Fiji’s diaspora, which comprises over 200,000 Fijians living abroad. He emphasized the critical role of remittances, which have been essential in supporting local communities, reducing poverty, and driving national economic development. Remittances constituted 11.3% of Fiji’s GDP in 2022 and reached a record high of FJD$1.25 billion in 2023.

High Commissioner Suveinakama outlined initiatives undertaken by Fiji to deepen engagements with the global diaspora. These includes the development of a National Diaspora Engagement Policy in collaboration with the IOM and the promotion of the ‘Ocean of Peace’ concept, emphasizing the importance of regional stability for effective diaspora contributions.

Further, Fiji expressed strong support for the Global Diaspora Policy Alliance (GDPA) and its Technical Working Groups, recognizing their potential to facilitate knowledge sharing and stronger collaboration with stakeholders. “Diaspora engagement is not just about economic contributions; it’s about harnessing the expertise, networks, and passion of Fijians abroad to drive sustainable development and build a resilient future for our country and its people,” stated High Commissioner Suveinakama.

Following the conference, High Commissioner Suveinakama engaged in a bilateral meeting with IOM’s Deputy Director General of Operations, Ms. Ugochi Daniels. It highlighted prospects for strengthened collaboration between Fiji and IOM, particularly in areas such as the diaspora engagement, climate change response, and migration policies. Key outcomes included IOM’s commitment to support Fiji’s diaspora engagement strategy and the development of a comprehensive migration policy for Fiji.

Additionally, the conference aimed to share best practices in diaspora engagement and officially launch the GDPA. This alliance will serve as a platform for collaboration across governments and stakeholders, empowering diasporas to contribute to national sustainable development.

Fiji remains committed to strengthening its diaspora engagement efforts, recognizing the vital role diaspora communities play in Fiji’s progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Similarly, Fiji continues to explore innovative ways to harness the potential of our global diaspora for the benefit of all Fijians, both at home and abroad.