External Relations: Strengthening global connections

The return of Bergerac to our screens brought a wave of nostalgia for many Islanders earlier this year, alongside fresh interest and a renewed sense of pride in what Jersey has to offer.

Even for those living elsewhere, Jersey’s appeal continues to hold firm – as a special screening of the new series in London proved. Organised by the External Relations department (ER) through the Government’s Jersey Connections initiative, the screening, with a talk by one of the producers of the series, brought together friends of Jersey to share their appreciation for our Island’s cultural identity.

But a screening of Bergerac was only a small part of something much larger which seeks to ensure that Jersey’s diaspora remain connected, and that their support is harnessed, for the good of the Island.

Representing Jersey on the world stage

At the heart of External Relations’ work is the goal of ensuring that Jersey’s interests are understood and respected internationally. Through regular engagement with the UK Government, EU institutions, and partner jurisdictions across the globe, we promote the Island’s distinct voice and protect its ability to make decisions that serve Islanders.

Our teams work across a wide range of issues – from financial services and digital policy to climate diplomacy, education, and trade promotion – ensuring that Jersey contributes responsibly and constructively to global conversations. Whether hosting international delegations here in Jersey, participating in policy discussions in London, Brussels or Washington, or supporting Island businesses abroad, ER plays a central role in strengthening Jersey’s reputation as a forward-looking, well-connected jurisdiction. Over the past year alone, we have hosted high-profile representatives from Portugal, Romania, Kenya, Qatar, Germany and France, and we look forward to continuing to build on these relationships throughout 2026 and beyond.

Working for you, at home and abroad

While much of the work undertaken by ER helps to solidify Jersey’s global position on business and political stages, it is important not to overlook our drive to broaden support closer to home.

Our role is – and always will be – to connect the local community with the wider world. From fostering meaningful relationships with international communities to providing timely consular assistance, we are in a position to make a tangible difference in the lives of Islanders.

It is vital to ensure all of us feel connected, wherever we may be at any given time.

Consular support when it matters most

Unexpected challenges abroad – such as a lost passport or a medical emergency – can be daunting and knowing who to contact can make all the difference.

While it is the responsibility of the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to provide direct consular services for British passport holders, ER acts as a crucial bridge for Islanders – ensuring they are connected to the relevant people quickly and effectively.

During the pandemic, ER officers based in Jersey and London facilitated the repatriation of more than 650 Islanders who were stuck abroad in 49 countries. We continue to offer individual guidance where necessary and this year we have reinforced our commitment by improving guidance on consular support through the Government of Jersey website, making it easier for Islanders to understand what assistance is available and how to get it.

External Relations representatives also maintain regular contact with the numerous Honorary Consuls who are based in the Channel Islands, including Belgium, Italy, Portugal, Germany and Poland. These Consuls provide valuable community support to non-British nationals living in Jersey, and a link to diplomatic representation in the UK. The Minister, Deputy Ian Gorst, and Assistant Minister Deputy Carolyn Labey were pleased to welcome Poland’s Consul General to the Government’s head office in late-November – a valuable meeting arranged by the nation’s Honorary Consul for the Channel Islands.

Connecting communities through Jersey Connections

Beyond crisis support, ER has strengthened ties with local communities and the global diaspora through Jersey Connections.

This outreach programme, which stemmed from the Government’s Island Identity project, brings people with Jersey links together and provides a platform for them to promote professional, cultural and social opportunities. Through shared experiences, new connections and a public show of pride in what our Island offers, Jersey’s reach can grow further – bringing greater benefits to Islanders of the past, the present and the future.

As well as the Bergerac screening in Covent Garden, Jersey Connections members attended a play exploring the life and legacy of Claude Cahun – the celebrated artist and writer who lived in Jersey during the Occupation.

These events gave Islanders based in the UK a chance to reconnect and celebrate Jersey’s heritage, and – alongside another annual social event in London – we hope to expand the offering in 2026 by engaging with university students.

Our aim is that Jersey Connections will focus on delivering a truly global diaspora network with in-person events hosted all around the world, but ultimately Jersey’s success relies on its home-grown talent. Giving the next generation a reason to stay connected to their roots will benefit us all – now, and long into the future.

For more details on how External Relations can assist with consular support, visit Consular Support – Government of Jersey.