An international forum dedicated to harnessing the collective power of diaspora communities, fostering partnerships, and shaping a collaborative model for sustainable development and global progress.
From harnessing the potential of diaspora communities to building partnerships that address today’s critical challenges, the Ulpiana Forum equips attendees with insights and strategies to navigate and impact global development.
This forum serves as a platform for fostering a collaborative community dedicated to advancing diaspora engagement. Explore fresh perspectives, collaborate on transformative ideas, and join a movement driving impactful change for a sustainable future.
Speakers at the Ulpiana Forum will comprise globally recognised leaders in the subject matter being discussed at the forum.
The Ulpiana Forum is scheduled to commence with an evening program and networking reception starting at 17:00 at Atelier Hall, Palace of Youth and Sports, St. Luan Haradinaj, Prishtina. This opening ceremony, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora in Prishtina, promises an engaging start, featuring opening and welcoming remarks by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosova and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, featuring a keynote address by a distinguished expert on migration and diaspora, will explore the growing role of diaspora engagement amidst the challenges and opportunities of today's dynamic international relations landscape.
This panel will convene government representatives to highlight the critical role of diaspora communities in advancing diaspora engagement and diplomacy. It will showcase how national strategies and government initiatives harness diaspora engagement to tackle global challenges. Panelists will share their countries' experiences, focusing on innovative policies that foster cross-border collaboration and strengthen global resilience. The session aims to facilitate an exchange of insights, explore effective strategies, and identify opportunities to enhance partnerships among governments, diaspora communities, and international organizations.
This panel will highlight how diaspora entrepreneurs drive sustainable development in their home countries by creating jobs, promoting innovation, and promoting environmentally responsible practices. Panelists will explore how governments and support networks can help overcome challenges to amplify the impact of diaspora-led sustainable entrepreneurship, focusing on effective strategies for supporting initiatives that contribute to long-term economic growth and sustainability.
Opening RemarksDiaspora talent plays a transformative role in addressing critical gaps across healthcare, education, technology, and other sectors. This panel will highlight innovative approaches to engaging diaspora communities, from skill-sharing initiatives to strategic investments and digital solutions. By showcasing successful case studies, the discussion will emphasize how diaspora expertise can drive inclusive development, bridge inequalities, and create sustainable progress in underserved regions.
Exploring the impact of diaspora expertise, this panel will showcase contributions to sustainable urban development and renewable energy and agriculture. Panelists will present adaptable strategies that accommodate seasonal diaspora returns, emphasizing resilient cities, green energy solutions, and agricultural practices, the discussion will highlight ways to align innovation with cultural heritage and local economic needs, inspiring cross-border partnerships for sustainable development.
Cities are increasingly at the forefront of global diplomacy, driving cooperation and sustainable development through innovative partnerships. This high-level panel will explore the growing importance of city diplomacy in international relations, focusing on the potential of twinning programs and collaborative initiatives to promote mutual growth and shared solutions. By exchanging insights and forging connections, city leaders can play a transformative role in shaping the future of diplomacy and global cooperation.
Examining the role of diaspora communities in supporting national diplomacy and homeland security, this session will focus on programs that involve diaspora resources in building stability and resilience. Panelists will share best practices for fostering partnerships that enhance national image and security, including initiatives that tap into diaspora expertise for cybersecurity and diplomatic efforts.
Diaspora communities play a crucial role in combating misinformation and promoting accurate narratives. This panel will discuss initiatives that harness digital tools, including AI, to empower diaspora voices, creating a resilient knowledge ecosystem. Through collaboration with local experts, the session aims to address misinformation while enriching global discourse.
Opening Remarks
Mr. Peter Kwok, Chair at Global Diaspora Confederation, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (video message)
Panelist:
Mrs. Andrianina Irina Randrianarivelo, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of MadaLiving, Republic of Madagascar
Mr. Elian Carsenat, Founder of NamSour, The French Republic
Dr. Alan Gamlen, Director of the ANU Migration Hub and a Professor in the School of Regulation and Global Governance at ANU, Commonwealth of Australia
Mrs. Andra-Lucia Martinescu, Co-Founder, The Diaspora Initiative, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Mr. David Selassie Opoku, Senior Technical Instructor of dbt Labs, Republic of Ghana
Moderated by:
Ms. Jeta Xharra, Editor of Kallxo & Anchor of Kallxo Përnime & 'Jeta në Kosovë'
This panel explores strategies for fostering political engagement, remote collaboration, and cultural continuity among diaspora youth while strengthening intergenerational ties. By bridging the gap between heritage and action, the discussion will focus on empowering diasporic communities to drive social impact, enhance cross-border connections, and sustain cultural identity across generations.
Opening Remarks
Mrs. Hella Ben Youssef Ouardani, Vice-President of Democratic Forum for Labour and Liberties and Vice-President of Socialist International Women, Republic of Tunisia
Panelists:
Mr. Shiva Adhikari, President of Nepali Samaj, Federal Republic of Germany
Mrs. Ermina Lekaj Perlaskaj, Special Advisor of the Croatian MFA, Republic of Croatia
Mr. Ing. Roman Klepetko, Vice Director of Czech National Agency For International Education and Research, Czech Republic
Mrs. Nadine Loza, Founding Director, The Egypt Diaspora Initiative, Arab Republic of Egypt
Dr. Ilir Gedeshi, Director of Center for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Republic of Albania
Moderated by:
Mr. Lirim Krasniqi, Co-Executive of Germin
The Kosova Philharmonic Choir will conclude its activities for 2024 with a concert scheduled for December 11, 2024, at 19:30 at the Atelier of the Palace of Youth and Sports in Prishtina. This concert will precede the Choir’s performance for the Slovenian audience on December 15, 2024, at the “Marjan Kozina” Hall of the Slovenian Philharmonic.
The session will summarize key takeaways from the forum and reflect on the discussions held throughout the forum. By focusing on inclusive policies, technological advancements, and multi-sector partnerships, this session aims to build on key findings and actionable outcomes from the forum, outlining both immediate and long-term strategies to ensure sustained diaspora engagement.
Prishtina, Kosova’s capital, is a vibrant city known for its blend of historical charm and modern energy. As Kosova’s cultural, economic, and political center, it’s home to iconic landmarks, bustling cafes, and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates art, innovation, and community.
Participation in-person at the Ulpiana Forum is by invitation only. But a limited number can register to follow the forum, the registration is based on first come first served. Only those who have received invitations and confirmed their attendance can attend the sessions. Credentials will be provided for each participants in the forum.
© Ulpiana Forum 2023-2024