The Department of Foreign Affairs, through the Development Co-operation Division, manages Irish Aid, Ireland’s development cooperation program.

Ireland’s policy for international development, “A Better World,” outlines four key development priorities: (i) women’s equality, (ii) reducing humanitarian need, (iii) climate action, and (iv) strengthening governance. The policy focuses on reaching those who are furthest behind first and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, Ireland aims to channel its energies into interventions focusing on people, food, and protection. Ireland prioritizes Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Viet Nam.

In December 2023, Ireland launched its Second Strategy for Partnership with SIDS. This strategy builds on the progress achieved since 2019, when Ireland became one of the first countries in the world to develop a dedicated national strategy for SIDS. Ireland’s commitments for this next phase of partnership with SIDS are set out in the strategy Action Plan under the following interlinked pillars: Building our Partnership, Climate and Oceans, Capacity, and Advocacy.

Since becoming a member in 2006, Ireland has committed $130.1 million to ADB special funds. Of this, $118.3 million is for the Asian Development Fund (ADF). The ADF provides grants to ADB’s low-income, developing member countries to help reduce poverty and improve quality of life.