Port Louis, Mauritius, 15 May 2025 -The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional integration and International Trade, successfully hosted a two-day Diaspora initiatives Stocktaking Workshop on 14 to 15 May 2025 at Caudan Arts Centre, Port Louis. The workshop brought together over 40 key stakeholders from government institutions, civil society, the private sector, academia and UN agencies, to advance Mauritius’ national diaspora engagement strategy.

The workshop provided an important platform for stakeholders to take stock of ongoing diaspora engagement initiatives, review progress achieved, and collectively contribute to updating the National Diaspora Engagement Action Plan (NDAP). Discussions revolved around the importance of aligning Mauritius’ national efforts with broader global and regional frameworks, including IOM’s 3E Strategy and the Global Diaspora Policy Alliance. Through these exchanges, participants were able to draw from international success stories, innovative tools, and shared learning.

Participants reaffirmed the value of multi-stakeholder collaboration in building an enabling environment for diaspora contributions and called for the continuation of joint efforts to institutionalize diaspora engagement. The workshop concluded with shared commitments to strengthen coordination, invest in outreach and digital tools, and reinforce the role of youth and women in diaspora led development initiatives.

During the two-day workshop, IOM presented key findings from recent assessments, including the review of the Mauritian Diaspora Scheme (MDS), proposals for a diaspora Skills Platform, and innovative financing instruments. Updates on the Pilot Youth Diaspora Volunteering Project, titled “NOU RASINN” showcased the potential of youth-led diaspora engagement in sustainable development.

Public institutions, such as the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Economic Development Board (EDB) and the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) shared their strategies, highlighting the importance of multi-sector collaboration. Some of the sessions focused on evaluating progress under the National Diaspora Engagement Action Plan (NDAP), identifying implementation gaps, and proposing solutions. Challenges raised included limited coordination, low awareness of available schemes, and the lack of a centralized digital platform. Participants recommended stronger institutional mechanisms, enhanced outreach, and better use of technology. A concluding plenary session consolidated these inputs, calling for a long-term, structured approach to diaspora engagement. The announcement of a dedicated Diaspora cell under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was welcomed as a key step in this direction.

In his opening remarks, Honourable Hambyrajen Narsinghen, Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, emphasized: “to harness  our collaboration with our Diaspora, the Government will enhance existing mechanisms and implement measures to facilitate the engagement and contribution of the Mauritian diaspora to the socio-economic development of our country”, while reiterating about “the establishment of a Diaspora Cell under the Ministry which would reinforce this commitment by providing a structured approach to diaspora contribution.”

Ms. Alia Hirji, Chief of Mission for IOM Mauritius and Seychelles, highlighted the importance of an integrated approach: “Mauritius has made notable stride in diaspora engagement. This workshop will enable us to consolidate efforts, identify synergies, and ensure that the roadmap ahead is grounded in local priorities and inclusive dialogue. We are proud to support the Government of Mauritius in this process.”

This initiative forms part of IOM’s broader support to the Government of Mauritius in promoting inclusive and rights-based diaspora engagement. It aligns with national development priorities and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), seeking to create conditions for migrants and diasporas to fully contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the country.

As the workshop concluded, both the Ministry and IOM reaffirmed their shared commitment to mainstreaming momentum and ensuring the outcomes of the workshop effectively inform future national policies and programmes on migration and development. Head of UN agencies present echoed their support for whole-of-government, whole-of-society approaches in advancing diaspora engagement, reinforcing the collective will to make the Mauritian diaspora a vital partner in the country’s development journey.

About IOM  

Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration to advance the understanding of migration issues, encourage social and economic development through migration, and uphold the human dignity and well-being of migrants. As the UN Migration Agency, IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all and as a key driver for development. For more information, visit IOM's website on www.iom.int    

For more information, please contact:   

IOM Mauritius Chief of Mission: Alia Hirji | ahirji@iom.int | Tel: +230 210 4250  
Communication: Simla Pertaub | spertaub@iom.int | Tel: +230 210 4250  
Media: IOM Mauritius | iommauritius@iom.int | Tel: +230 210 4250