Design communication strategy for Guyanese diaspora engagement

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It supports governments and migrants by offering services and policy guidance to ensure migration is managed safely, responsibly, and with dignity; contributing to development, humanitarian response, and the protection of human rights. In the Caribbean, migration has been central to shaping the region’s identity. From the tragedy of slavery to today’s vibrant diasporas and multi-generational migrant communities, mobility remains both a cornerstone of society and an enduring aspiration. Today, the region faces growing challenges such as climate change, demographic shifts, and labor shortages among them. Migration can serve as a vital tool to enhance resilience, foster inclusive development, and support effective governance. Composed largely of small island developing states (SIDS), the Caribbean has unique vulnerabilities. Economies are dependent on imports, tourism, and remittances, with populations clustered in coastal areas. This makes countries especially vulnerable to climate-related disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and sea level rise. Without stronger investment in preparedness and adaptation, the risk of displacement is likely to grow. At the same time, ageing populations and ongoing outward migration, especially to the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., are creating labor gaps in key sectors. While CARICOM’s intra-regional labor mobility offers solutions, attracting external labor may become necessary, marking a shift for a region traditionally seen as one of origin.

In response, the Government of Guyana (GoG), through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFA&IC), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is implementing a project titled “Supporting Sustainable Development in Guyana through Diaspora Engagement and Partnership.” This initiative aims to map diaspora skills, develop a diaspora engagement platform, conduct mobilization workshops, and train government and civil society actors on diaspora engagement strategies. A key component of this project is the development of a communication strategy and public awareness campaign to engage diaspora communities. The strategy will promote the diaspora mapping exercise, encourage registration on the engagement platform, and foster long-term connections between diaspora members and Guyana. Target audiences include Guyanese embassies, consulates, diaspora organizations, and individuals in the five priority countries. The campaign will leverage digital tools, social media, and community networks to ensure broad and inclusive outreach. This online volunteer will play a critical role in designing and implementing that strategy, ensuring that the diaspora is informed, inspired, and mobilized to contribute to Guyana’s sustainable development.

The Online Volunteer will design a diaspora-targeted communication strategy, which will be used to inform, inspire, and mobilize Guyanese diaspora members to register on a platform to map their skills and contribute to Guyana’s sustainable development. This strategy is to be aligned with the objectives of the project Supporting Sustainable Development of Guyana through Diaspora Engagement and Partnership.