Release: Supporting EU Research Diaspora Organisations in the UK

Opportunities for embassies, funders, collaborators, and emerging diaspora or other professional groups

Release: Supporting EU Research Diaspora Organisations in the UK
Opportunities for embassies, funders, collaborators, and emerging diaspora or other professional groups

EU research diaspora organisations in the United Kingdom are volunteer-led, non-profit associations that connect researchers abroad through community building, scientific exchange, and representation in both research and policy. They contribute to international collaboration, peer support, and knowledge exchange, while also acting as actors in science diplomacy. Drawing on our recent research report, this policy note summarises the potential of EU research diaspora organisations and offers recommendations for two audiences:

1. Embassies, funders, and collaborators who can support the long-term sustainability of these associations.
2. Emerging diaspora groups or similar professional groups considering how to begin organising and building communities.

FOR EMBASSIES, FUNDERS, AND COLLABORATORS	FOR EMERGING DIASPORA GROUPS OR SIMILAR PROFESSIONAL GROUPS
Why EU research diaspora organisations matter – Science diplomacy and soft power: They act as bridges between the UK and EU member states, facilitating dialogue and strengthening bilateral relations. – Talent retention and circulation: They contribute to knowledge exchange and international collaboration by keeping researchers connected. – Community resilience: They provide support networks for researchers navigating mobility, career transitions, and post-Brexit challenges.	Why form an organisation (see our Resources to support new or young diasporas) – Visibility: A collective voice amplifies researchers’ perspectives in both the UK and in your home country. – Community: Associations create spaces for networking, peer support, and shared identity. – Sustainability: Organised structures help attract funding, volunteers, and partnerships.
How you can support EU research diaspora organisations – Provide financial support by funding project-based initiatives and events, as well as offering initial funding for those organisations that are still getting organised. – Foster institutional recognition and visibility by involving these organisations in embassy events, as well as consider them as important actors for consultations on conversations around science and research policy. – Enable collaboration by facilitating interrelationships between different diaspora groups, as well as connecting them to universities, research organisations, and civil society networks.	How to start organising – Start small and flexible by organising informal events, using defined roles to clarify tasks while welcoming creativity, flexibility, and proactivity.  – Engage and sustain members by conducting surveys to identify members’ needs and offering activities with added value to them, such as mentorship or networking. – Build for continuity by documenting internal procedures and leadership transitions and pairing newcomers with experienced volunteers for mentoring. – Connect with others by collaborating with sister organisations in the UK and abroad and pursuing engagement with embassies, research organisations, and universities early.