Burns Night: First Minister letter to Scotland’s diaspora
A letter from First Minister to the Scottish Connections community around the world, as they celebrate Burns Night.
As First Minister of Scotland, I would like to wish our valued members of Scotland’s diaspora a very happy Burns Night.
Robert Burns’ poetry continues to inspire with its reflections on equality, kindness, and the bonds that unite us all. Though his words were written in Scotland, their meaning belongs to everyone.
Later in 2026, we will mark the 225th anniversary of the first ever Burns Supper, held by a group of friends in his memory. Thousands of these events are now held the world over, with communities gathering to honour Burns and celebrate the power of creativity and poetry to bring us together. These moments remind us of Scotland’s enduring spirit, rich in heritage yet open and welcoming to all.
Whether your connection to Scotland comes through family roots, time spent living here, business or academic ties, or simply a deep appreciation for our culture, you are part of this moment, and part of a global network that shines a light on Scotland’s story.
We see Scotland’s diaspora community as an extension of Scotland itself, and we want to thank you for your commitment to sharing our culture with the world. Whether you are a seasoned Burns Supper or ceilidh host, champion our creative industries, support our alumni and business networks, or celebrate our sporting achievements, you play a vital role in strengthening Scotland’s global reputation.
We warmly invite you to continue exploring all that Scotland offers: visit, study, engaging in business with us, or simply enjoy the experiences that make our country unique.
“That Man to Man the warld o’er
Shall brithers be for a’ that.”
Yours sincerely,
John Swinney MSP
Celebrating your Scottish Connections
Scotland opens its arms to anyone who wishes to join us in these celebrations.
We see Scotland’s diaspora as an extension of Scotland itself. Whether you are Scottish by heritage or ancestry, have lived in Scotland at any time, have links through business or education, or simply have a strong affinity for Scotland’s culture – all are welcome in our international community of Scottish connections.
You may know that we have recently launched two new online tools for Scotland’s diaspora community to help you be better connected than ever.
Anyone with a Scottish connection can register to join us online and receive news and updates for our diaspora community via email.
We have also launched a Community Directory, which lists organisations across the globe with a Scottish link so you can find your nearest groups and events wherever you are.
For more information on these tools, visit www.scotland.org/globalcommunity.