The Global Island: Ireland’s Foreign Policy for a Changing World
Ireland is a country with a global people, economy, culture and outlook. We connect instantaneously with people and events around the globe. Our economy is interwoven with that of the rest of the world.
Our world is changing faster than we think. This change can be seen in shifting balances of political and economic influence, a changing world economy, and in a widening range of global challenges that require global solutions.
That is why the Government has adopted a review of Ireland’s external engagement: The Global Island: Ireland’s Foreign Policy for a Changing World.
The review was launched by the Taoiseach, Enda Kenny T.D., and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan T.D., at Dublin Castle on 13 January 2015.
It sets out, under five broad themes, how we safeguard our peace, security and economic prosperity, and promote reconciliation and cooperation at home. At its core are the protection of our citizens and the promotion of our values abroad.
More than ever before, foreign policy and external engagement are fundamental aspects of Government.
‘In today’s world, nothing is wholly foreign or entirely domestic.’
On an ever increasing number of issues, international engagement an essential element in the work of all Government Departments. – driving growth and job creation; engaging at the heart of the EU; building a strong global reputation; consolidating partnership, cooperation and reconciliation in Ireland; and delivering quality services to the public. Ensuring a whole-of-Government approach to our foreign policy is crucial.
This review of Ireland’s foreign policy lays down the goals and key areas of focus for the Government’s global engagement to safeguard a secure and prosperous future for the Irish people, and to make a distinctive and principled contribution to the collective international effort to build a better world.
Public consultation on the Foreign Policy Review
This policy review is the product of a review initiated by the then Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore T.D., and has involved consultation across Government, with members of the Oireachtas, with civil society and with members of the public.
