Motives and areas of diaspora philanthropic donation; A study on diaspora community from Kerala, India

Abstract

Background The purpose of this study was to examine to investigate the motivations behind philanthropic actions among diaspora respondents and gain insights into the areas where the diaspora community channels their donation. Methods The study employed a quantitative research method, collecting primary data from 291 return migrants and migrants on vacation in Malappuram district, Kerala. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to gather quantitative data. Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze the percentage distribution of philanthropic motives and areas of donation. Cross-tabulations were conducted to explore the relationship between motives for donation and the areas of philanthropic donation based on respondents' background characteristics. Result The study revealed that spiritual and religious motivation, cultural and community affiliation, ethical response, and seriousness of the problem were the major motives inspiring philanthropic activities. Religious and cultural affiliation were higher among older age groups, individuals with lower educational attainment, and those employed in unskilled sectors. Healthcare and medical services, house construction and rehabilitation, education, poverty alleviation, and social welfare activities were the primary areas where the diaspora allocated their resources. Bivariate analysis showed that donors in the below-45 age group had a significantly higher percentage of donations towards education, while those in the above-45 group significantly allocated a higher proportion than their counterparts to religious and social welfare initiatives. Conclusion This study identified diverse motives for philanthropy, with religious and cultural affiliation being prominent. Donations were primarily directed towards healthcare, housing, education, poverty alleviation, and social welfare. The significance of the health sector as a recipient of philanthropic support was evident. These findings emphasize the importance of developing a policy framework that recognizes and supports the different motives and areas of philanthropic giving.