Esteemed participants,

I am glad to sit today next to my distinguished colleagues from Mexico and Moldova, as both countries represent two perfect examples of what engaging diasporas into development means.

And I would like to seize the opportunity to thank both of you for inviting UNDP to hold the pen for this government roundtable on diasporas. 

It has been a privilege for us to hear about the rich good practices that so many representatives from governments, civil society, diaspora associations and partner organizations have shared over the last year.

I am sure today’s discussion will be equally rich and insightful.

As the UN’s lead agency on development, migrants and diasporas stand at the heart of UNDP’s mission. 

Their pivotal role as agents of sustainable development is fundamental to our work. 

And we find particularly appealing that the discussions today are focusing on three topics that have traditionally been overlooked when talking about the contribution of diasporas to development, 

Namely:

• Diaspora engagement in times of crisis;
• The role of digital tools in enhancing diaspora contributions; and 
• Diasporas' engagement in climate action 

They are all pertinent and timely issues.

Times of crisis often bring unprecedented challenges, requiring a flexible and multifaceted approach. 

Diasporas can support by informing about response efforts, coordinating involvement, contributing their expertise to support initiatives in crisis-affected areas, and complementing the efforts of local NGOs and international agencies. 

UNDP supports diaspora networks contributing to resilience and recovery in their countries of origin. 

This aligns with today’s aim to explore strategies that enable sustainable development in challenging circumstances. 

For example, in Serbia, during the COVID-19 pandemic, UNDP partnered with the online diaspora platform, Tačka povratka, inviting medical staff living abroad to volunteer to fill gaps in the country’s stretched healthcare service.

Digital tools allow for more effective diaspora engagement and foster seamless communication, collaboration, and resource mobilization across dispersed communities. 

UNDP is tapping digital tools to engage diasporas – reflecting the evolving landscape of connectivity. 

In Kyrgyzstan, we are working to harness emigrants’ contributions, using crowdfunding technology for development projects. 

Finally, I would like to seize this moment to invite all participants to propel the needle towards impactful climate action. 

Amidst the wintry ambiance of Geneva, it is crucial to recognize that our world is grappling with the impacts of climate change. 

By engaging diaspora communities in climate action, we’re responding to our collective responsibility to address environmental challenges.

In Moldova, for instance, UNDP linked emigrants with their home communities through engaging diasporas in promoting local tourism, 

Thus strengthening livelihoods, boosting local development and protecting the environment. 

Businesses are particularly encouraged to invest in ecological and environmentally friendly products. 

One creative entrepreneur has thus developed a “bee therapy” retreat, where tourists can sleep above beehives to energize body and soul.

Today’s dialogue provides an important platform to explore how diaspora engagement can better support a sustainable and climate-resilient future. 

It is also critical that our discussions translate into tangible and decisive actions on the ground. 

UNDP stands ready to support with concrete activities, drawing on our own good practices.

Thank you!