The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (MEPJ) held a meeting today to start drafting the National Diaspora Strategy 2026–2030. The meeting involved the Interinstitutional Working Group.

Deputy Minister Miriam Shyti highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthen the diaspora’s role in national development and Albania’s EU integration.

The process receives technical support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and both local and international experts. It will follow a comprehensive and coordinated interinstitutional approach. The strategy will be discussed in more detail at the Diaspora Summit planned for April 2026.

The 2026–2030 National Diaspora Strategy aligns with the Government Program 2025–2029, the Global Compact for Migration, the 2030 Agenda, and EU policies.

The strategy aims to consolidate the existing national framework. It treats the diaspora not only as a source of remittances but as a strategic partner. The diaspora will be a key actor in development and public diplomacy.

Deputy Minister Shyti stated that by 2030, the Albanian diaspora should be an institutionalized partner. It will co-create public policies and directly influence the country’s economic, social, cultural, and democratic development. It will also contribute to accelerating EU integration.

This process represents a new strategic approach to engaging the Albanian diaspora. It creates opportunities for active involvement in decision-making and development projects related to the economy, education, culture, and international cooperation.

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