Irish Ambassador H.E. Martin Fraser addresses policy and diplomacy students
H.E. Martin Fraser, Ambassador of Ireland to the Court of St James’s, recently addressed SOAS students in a talk exploring Ireland’s global role and the realities of modern policy work.
Organised by the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy (CISD), the event offered MA International Studies and Diplomacy students insight into Ireland’s priorities as it prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.
The strategic decisions Ireland faces reflect the rapidly shifting international order and its unique position as a globally connected, diplomatically active, and economically influential European state. Ambassador Fraser reflected on Ireland’s plans to navigate potential diplomatic pressures in the current geopolitical environment; questions surrounding Ireland’s policy of neutrality and the political balancing act between the US, the UK and EU.
Drawing on his experience as a senior civil servant and now diplomat, he discussed the changing nature of supranational politics and the growing influence of public opinion and digital platforms in shaping political narratives.
Related to my studies, coming from Mexico, it is rewarding to learn how regional powers can defend their interests by wielding their competitive advantages.
- Carlos Torres Morales, SOAS student
Vice-Chancellor Adam Habib framed this conversation and student engagement with the senior Irish diplomat as part of SOAS mission to engage with global politics and urgent social issues without compromising values in the pursuit of interests
Solène Hebrard, a MA student in attendance, noted how Ambassador Fraser’s reflections highlighted the challenges for a small neutral country in navigating today’s political climate, which reaffirms the need for diplomacy.
Carlos Torres Morales, another attending student, shared his reflection on the event: “As a key hub for global trade and investments coming into Europe, Ireland is a vivid example of how small countries matter.
“Related to my studies, coming from Mexico, it is rewarding to learn how regional powers can defend their interests by wielding their competitive advantages. This is particularly salient in our increasingly polarised world, as we address issues in institutional capacity to deliver on issues such as migration, climate and peace.”
Image credits: (Main image) Adobe Stock, (Body image) Embassy of Ireland to the United Kingdom
