Who We Are
The Irish Foreign Affairs Family Association (IFAFA) is a support and lobbying group for the spouses and partners of Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) officers. We focus on the unique opportunities and challenges that a diplomatic lifestyle poses for the family unit.
Our goal is to promote greater contact between members at home and abroad, identify common problems, and seek solutions by lobbying the DFA for improved conditions. We are also an active member of EUFASA (European Union Foreign Affairs Family Association), allowing us to share experiences and learn from our EU counterparts.
A Short History
IFAFA was founded in 1979 in New York as IFASA by pioneering women who recognised the need for spouse support during postings. By 1981, the first committee successfully negotiated planned postings for DFA officers. The association later rebranded to IFAFA to be more inclusive of the evolving nature of the modern diplomatic family.
How We Work
IFAFA is managed by a Committee elected annually by our members. The Committee meets monthly to address member concerns and manage various portfolios, including:
- Chairperson & Secretary
- Treasurer
- EUFASA Representative
- Research & Communications Officers
- Events Manager
What We Do
Liaison & Lobbying We meet regularly with the DFA Human Resources department and the Head of Corporate Services to advocate for the needs of our members.
Research & Communication We collect data via online surveys and discussions to ensure we are acting on the most current concerns. We keep our members informed through our website, Facebook group, and regular email updates regarding policy changes and upcoming events.
Social & Educational Events We foster a sense of belonging through:
- Socials: Annual lunches, monthly coffee mornings (drop-ins), bridge clubs, and book clubs.
- Seminars: Educational sessions on pensions, employment, and the impact of mobility on children.
Post-Posting Assistance We participate in DFA pre-posting seminars and provide a network of support for families returning to Ireland to help them reintegrate.
Our Impact
Key Achievements
- Planned Postings: Rotations aligned with summer school holidays.
- Financial Support: 100% coverage for rent and school fees (subject to ceilings).
- Work Rights: 15 bilateral agreements for spouse work permits.
- Legal Rights: Amended citizenship legislation so foreign-born spouses can count years on posting towards Irish residency.
Current Issues We Are Addressing
- Compensation for loss of pension for accompanying spouses.
- Duty of care for diplomatic families.
- Recognition of unmarried couples.
- Support for “Third Culture” children.
| Membership Type | Who is Eligible? |
| Full Member | Spouses/partners of serving DFA officers; single officers with children (posted abroad). |
| Associate Member | Spouses/partners of retired or deceased officers; divorced or separated spouses. |
How to Register
How to Register
To join, please email us at ifafadublin@gmail.com. We will guide you through the registration process and provide access to our members-only website at www.ifafa.org.