Azerbaijani diaspora in Ireland and Scotland: from community activity to institutional influence

The Azerbaijani diaspora in Ireland and Scotland is entering a new stage of development. In the past, such communities abroad were often seen primarily as cultural centers that brought compatriots together around language, traditions and national holidays. Today, however, their role is becoming broader. They are turning into a real public resource capable of strengthening Azerbaijan’s ties with host countries, promoting the national agenda and building a sustainable support network on the international stage.

In this context, the meetings held by Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan, with Azerbaijani communities in Ireland and Scotland were of particular importance. They took place on the eve of 28 May — Independence Day — which gave the events not only organizational but also symbolic significance. After the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, the idea of national unity has acquired new meaning: the diaspora is no longer simply preserving the memory of the homeland, but is becoming an active participant in promoting the modern image of the country.

The meeting with Azerbaijanis in Ireland showed that the community is gradually moving beyond internal communication and becoming a visible part of public diplomacy. The participation of Tony McCormack, head of the Ireland–Azerbaijan interparliamentary friendship group, and Terry Leyden, the first Honorary Consul of Azerbaijan in Ireland, demonstrated that interest in the Azerbaijani diaspora exists not only within the community itself, but also among the political and public circles of the host country.

No less important was the meeting with Azerbaijanis living in Scotland, held at the University of Edinburgh. The participation of community representatives from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee and Stirling showed that the Azerbaijani presence in Scotland is becoming more organized and geographically broader. The involvement of students and young activists was especially significant: they will determine the future quality of diaspora work, its language, methods and ability to engage with the local environment.

The main feature of these meetings was open dialogue. The discussions focused not only on projects already implemented, but also on practical tasks for the future: the development of coordination councils, the activities of Azerbaijan Houses, support for Sunday schools, preservation of language and culture among the younger generation, and more effective communication of Azerbaijani realities to international audiences.

Contacts with official Irish institutions were also of particular importance. At the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, discussions were held on the role of the diaspora in the development of bilateral relations. The Irish side’s interest in the experience of Azerbaijan Houses and Sunday schools shows that Baku’s diaspora policy is perceived as a systematic model, rather than a set of isolated initiatives.

Another important element of the visit was the meeting with the delegation led by Tony McCormack. His recollections of visiting Azerbaijan, including Shusha, Khankendi and Victory Park, carry political significance: direct exposure of foreign politicians to the realities of the post-conflict period helps break stereotypes and creates a more objective understanding of developments in the South Caucasus.

The cultural dimension of the visit was also far from secondary. The opening of the music department of the Anna and Ashraf School in the Irish town of Thurles became an example of how culture can turn into soft power. The performance of songs in different languages, including Azerbaijani, as well as the presence of Azerbaijani flags in the hall, showed that national identity can be naturally combined with openness to other cultures.

Overall, the meetings in Ireland and Scotland confirmed an important trend: the Azerbaijani diaspora is becoming more mature, organized and results-oriented. Its task today is not only to preserve ties with the homeland, but also to serve as an active bridge between Azerbaijan and the countries of residence. It is precisely such a diaspora that can defend national interests, strengthen interstate relations and present Azerbaijan as a modern, confident and open state.