Diaspora Participation Research Articles

Voice Through Votes and Remittances: Diaspora Efforts to Influence Elections

The increasing political inclusion of diaspora populations around the world has raised questions about their influence on electoral outcomes back home. In Kenya, emigrants have advocated for direct influence through external voting rights, while less attention has been given to the ways in which they may also indirectly influence elections through economic remittances. In this research note, we explore diaspora efforts to influence elections through the perspectives of domestic voters, which are often overlooked in the literature on diaspora voting. We surveyed a nationally representative sample of eligible voters within Kenya prior to the August 2022 presidential election and posed parallel questions to a smaller sample of diaspora Kenyans. Domestic voters strongly support direct diaspora participation in elections for president, but not for lower-level offices. Our survey results also indicate that roughly one of every seven eligible voters in Kenya was encouraged to vote in the 2022 election by friends and family abroad from whom they receive remittances. Thus, emigrants may have more influence on elections through their connections at home than through their direct votes. Drawing on the Kenyan case, we explore some directions for future research on transnational citizenship and voting rights.

STRATEGY "UZBEKISTAN - 2030": WAYS TO SUPPORT COMPATRIOTS LIVING ABROAD

This article examines the implications and strategies outlined in Uzbekistan's "Strategy-2030" for engaging with its diaspora. The comprehensive analysis covers the diverse contributions of the diaspora in economic, social, human, and cultural sectors, aligning with key principles identified in diaspora engagement policies. The study applauds the multifaceted approach of the strategy and offers recommendations for institutionalizing diaspora participation, unifying definitions, and establishing discussion platforms to foster practical realization of rights and obligations. The "Strategy-2030" is seen as a pivotal step, creating a foundation for long-term cooperation and mutual understanding between Uzbekistan and its compatriots abroad.

Perceptions about Dual Citizenship and Diaspora Participation in Political, Economic, and Social Life in South Sudan

Dual citizens, especially dual citizens in the diaspora, are the subject of an important debate among South Sudanese residents. This article seeks to explore South Sudanese residents’ attitudes towards dual citizenship and the role dual-citizen individuals play in the political, economic and social life of the country. During recent Rift Valley Institute research projects, conducted for the Australian Government from 2017–2020, we interviewed residents in South Sudan and South Sudanese members of the diaspora in the UK, Australia, and Ethiopia to understand arguments about citizenship and diaspora participation in the political, economic, and social life of South Sudan. The South Sudanese diaspora are perceived within South Sudan to have dubious national identification and loyalty. However, the research also established that the South Sudanese diaspora have always been part of the political organization, economic activities and social fabric of South(ern) Sudan both directly and indirectly.

Diaspora Voting In Kenya: A Promise Denied

Abstract In 2010, Kenya extended voting rights to its estimated 3,000,000 citizens living abroad, thus joining a growing number of countries in Africa and around the world to recognize emigrant voting rights. Yet despite a politically engaged diaspora, intensive government outreach to emigrants, and high-stakes electoral competition, fewer than 3,000 Kenyans were permitted to vote from abroad in the 2013 and 2017 presidential elections. What explains the failure of the Kenyan government to implement diaspora voting on a broader scale? Drawing on original interviews and archival documents, this article analyses the tumultuous battle over the adoption and implementation of external voting in Kenya, focusing especially on legal, logistical, and political challenges. We argue that uncertainty about the number of Kenyan emigrants and their political preferences, paired with a highly competitive electoral climate, meant there was little political will to push for more widespread implementation of diaspora voting. Our analysis of external voting in Kenya has implications for diaspora participation in other competitive electoral contexts across the continent and beyond.

ПРЕСА УКРАЇНСЬКОЇ ЕМІГРАЦІЇ У ПОВОЄННІЙ НІМЕЧЧИНІ (1945–1948 рр.) ЯК ДЖЕРЕЛО ДО ВИВЧЕННЯ ІСТОРИКО-КУЛЬТУРНОЇ СПАДЩИНИ УКРАЇНСЬКОЇ ДІАСПОРИ

The collection of periodicals of camps for displaced persons and the Ukrainian emigrant press are considered as a study source for investigation of historical and cultural heritage of the Ukrainian Diaspora. It is highlighted that despite challenging conditions after the Second World War, the Ukrainian emigrants cared not only about material needs, but also preserved national cultural heritage. It is argued that the process mentioned above took place in constant struggle with the Soviet repressive system, which aspired to bring back as many displaced persons as possible. However, deliberate Ukrainian intellectuals had different political views but were united by the Ukrainian national idea and created significant historical and cultural heritage after the Second World War, particularly in Germany, part of the heritage was described on the pages of periodicals of the Ukrainian Diaspora. Number and social composition of the Ukrainian emigrants after the Second World War in Germany and Austria is analyzed on the basis of the periodicals, particularly «The Bulletin of Information Help Service». Establishment of educational institutions, archives and libraries in 1945–1948 in Germany is described. Considerable attention is paid to analysis of periodical the «UFAS Chronicle», and investigation of activities of the museum-archive, scientific library and «The Society for the Protection of Ukrainian Heritage Abroad» of the Ukrainian Free Academy of Science in Germany is based on these materials. Significant attention should be drawn to activities of the Scientific and Research Institute of the Ukrainian Martyrology of the Ukrainian Political Prisoners League. Study of the Ukrainian Diaspora periodicals enables to formulate source study vision for students to understand participation of Diaspora in preservation of the heritage and ways of utilization in tourist activities.

The Ukrainian Diaspora of the USA in the Formation of International Image of Ukraine (1991-2018)

The article is dedicated to the research of contribution of diaspora to recognition of Ukrainian independency by the United States of America. The influence of diaspora on the development of international cooperation is clarified; its role on protection of national internal and external interests and consolidation of Ukraine on the world stage are highlighted. The results of diaspora participation in the foreign policy activity of the Ukrainian state are analyzed. In 2008, the contractual framework between Ukraine and the USA was supplemented by an extremely important document – the Strategic Partnership and Security Charter. With the support of the United States, the Ukrainian side has made progress in its relations with NATO, receiving the prospect of membership in April 2008, in December of the same year – a similar format to the MAP for further preparation for NATO membership – Annual National Programs. It is emphasized that the main directions of cooperation of the Ukrainian Diaspora with official institutions of the USA correspond to the internal and external interests of Ukraine. Congress Ukrainian Caucus, Ukrainian National Information Service, Ukrainian Congressional Committee of America, a network of other organizations are active in covering major problems of the Ukrainians, ensuring the international image of Ukraine.

Who chooses to remember? Diaspora participation in memorialization initiatives

ABSTRACTDiaspora actors demonstrate their ability to play a role in a variety of political and social processes in their homelands, including transitional justice. Transnational diaspora memorialization initiatives have become embedded and sustained within different contexts. This paper examines how the causal mechanism of coordination affects memorialization initiatives. It compares memorialization efforts in two localities in Bosnia and Herzegovina with different levels of coordination between diaspora, returnees, and local institutional actors. Centralized coordination with the help of a homeland institution enriches existing memory narratives and aims to forward transitional justice. Memorialization and commemorative practices initiated by diaspora without homeland institutional backing can lead to coordination among a more diverse set of actors, ultimately fostering new, alternative, and more inclusive memory narratives.

An opportunity for diaspora participation in environmentally friendly programme for improved livelihoods in north-east sahel of nigeria

An opportunity for diaspora participation in environmentally friendly programme for improved livelihoods in north-east sahel of nigeria

Индийская диаспора в Великобритании

The author traces the history of formation of the Indian diaspora in the UK, evaluates the key trends that characterize the current state of diaspora. The article highlights the level of involvement and participation of diaspora in the evolution of the bilateral relations, as well as the influence of diaspora over home and foreign policy in the UK and India. The diaspora today is not just a unique vibrant connection between the two countries, it has also become a factor of influence over domestic, social and economic affairs in both the UK and India. There is a growing number of Indians among British statesmen and politicians. Indians occupy significant posts in various sectors in Britain, including business and finance. This contributes to strengthening of economic ties between the two countries, particularly important considering Britain’s forthcoming exit from the EU. As to internal political matters, though potential issues exist (those include, for instance, the possible transfer from India into Britain of problematic inter-caste relations, India’s criticism over unbalanced approach to teaching colonial history in British schools), the Indian diaspora due to its’ inherent tolerance and moderation generally plays a stabilizing role in the UK, especially on the background of radicalization of other ethnic communities. For the new India the diaspora today is not just an important source of financing, competences and know-how, it is also a significant lobbying and soft-power instrument. This article is part of a broader research, related to the contemporary relations between the United Kingdom and India. Indian diaspora in the UK is an integral part of the unique centuries-long history that connects the two countries. It is poised to remain a strong factor contributing to interdependence and cooperation between Britain and India in the XXI century.

Role of diasporas in homeland conflicts, conflict resolution, and post-war reconstruction: the case of Tamil diaspora and Sri Lanka

ABSTRACTThe case of Sri Lanka and the Tamil diaspora can be cited as a classic case of participation by a diaspora in the homeland conflict and to some extent also in conflict resolution. Influenced by lived experiences of discrimination and suffering in an ethnocentric homeland and a range of racial prejudices and economic deprivation, in the host lands, the diaspora Tamils developed a strong sense of Tamil identity and ethno-nationalism which the LTTE could successfully harvest on. However, with the devastating civil war coming to an end, and a new government in power, numerous opportunities have opened up for diaspora participation in the development and reconstruction of the war-torn regions. All that is required is a pragmatic and reconciliatory approach by both sides – by the diaspora as well as by the Sri Lankan state.

Transnational Transitional Justice and Reconciliation: The Participation of Conflict-generated Diasporas in Addressing the Legacies of Mass Violence

This paper is a preliminary exploration of the role that conflict-generated diaspora communities can play in transitional justice and processes of reconciliation. The aim is to consider what potential there is for tapping into diaspora communities and the possible benefits this could have on diasporas themselves and on peacebuilding processes in the homeland. The goal is also to explore and reflect on ways in which reconciliatory attitudes can be encouraged among diaspora communities, as well as their participation in transnational activities. The paper begins by providing a brief overview of diasporas, followed by a discussion on relationships and attitudes within conflict-generated diaspora communities in the aftermath of violence. The paper then explores the various roles that diasporas can play in transitional justice, such as providing input to strategies and participating in established mechanisms; or mobilizing on their own to push for transitional justice measures. This is followed by a brief look at diaspora involvement in other processes of reconciliation, including dialogue and media initiatives. The paper then discusses how integration policies and outcomes in the hostland can influence the views of diasporas and their involvement with the homeland. The paper concludes with challenges related to diaspora participation and some overall reflections.

Contemporary Polish Diaspora in the Republic of South Africa and its attitude towards politics

The article focuses, first and foremost, on attitude of the Polish Diaspora in the RSA towards socio-political situation in country of settlement. In solving problem particular attention is drawn to the attitude of the Polish Diaspora to political transition in South Africa. Relation to this process is portrayed by engagement of the Polish Diaspora in building new political order after apartheid – multiethnic democracy called New South Africa, among others through its participation in parliamentary elections, referendums and membership in political parties. Conclusions concentrate on conditions and effects of the Polish Diaspora participation in political life in country of settlement.

Inauguration of the Cameroonian Society of Human Genetics

The conjunction of "hard genetics" research centers, with well established biomedical and bioethics research groups, and the exceptional possibility to hold the 6th annual meeting of the African Society of Human Genetics (AfSHG, 13th-15th March 2009) was an excellent opportunity to get together in synergy the entire Cameroonian "DNA/RNA scientists" . This laid to the foundation of the Cameroonian Society of Human Genetics (CSHG) that was privilege to hold its inaugural meeting in conjunction to the 6th annual meeting of the AfSHG. The theme was "Human Origin, Genetic Diversity and Health". The AfSHG and CSHG invited leading African and international scientists in genomics and population genetics to review recent data and provide an understanding of the state-of-knowledge of Human Origin and Genetic Diversity. Overall one opening ceremony eight session, five keynote and guest speakers, 18 invited oral communications, 13 free oral communications, 43 posters and two social events could summarize the meeting. This year's conference was graced by the presence of one Nobel Prize winner Dr Richard Roberts (Physiology and Medicine 1993). The meeting registered up to ten contributions of Cameroonian scientists from the Diaspora (currently in USA, Belgium, Gambia, Sudan and Zimbabwe). Such Diaspora participation is an opportunity to generate collaborations with home country scientists and ultimately turn the "brain drain" to "brain circulation" that could reduce the impact of the migration of health professional from Africa. Interestingly, the personal implication of the Cameroonian Ministry of Public Heath who opened the meeting in the presence of the Secretary General of the Ministry of Higher Education and a representative of the Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation was a wonderful opportunity for advocacy of genetic issues at the decision-makers level. Beyond our expectation, a major promise of the Cameroonian government was the creation of the National Human Genome Institute. If this goal comes true, this will be a critical step to bring more genetics for the purpose of Public Health to the Cameroonian people. The sub-Saharan African Region needs significant capacity building in the broad area of basic research in general and Genetics (especially Human Genetics) in particular. In that respect, the existence and current activities of the AfSHG and its impact at the National levels in Africa, is a major development for the continent and an initiative that needs further encouragement from the international community.

Theater in Israel (review)

Hebrew Studies 38 (1997) 203 Reviews THEATER IN ISRAEL. Linda Ben-Zvi, ed. Theater: Theoryrrext/ Performance. Pp. xxi + 450. Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan Press, 1996. Cloth. Both as producers and consumers, Jews are remarkably well represented in the perfonnance arts of the last century. This is particularly true of "show business." No cultural history of American Jewry, for example, can ignore the flourishing Second Avenue Yiddish theater of the mass migration era, nor its subsequent influence on the motion picture industry. However, this enthusiastic diaspora participation can be dismissed as ultimately expressing an effort to assimilate to the larger society. What happens in Israel, where Jews constitute the majority? How effective is a theater language which derives both from biblical cadences and contemporary army slang? How are the sensibilities, moods, visions, and nightmares of its diverse, heterogeneous public reflected onstage? What unique themes and original strategies can Israeli theater claim? Professor Linda Ben-Zvi has assembled an impressive array of essays, articles, reports, and interviews which, with her own contributions, explore these questions and many other facets of Israel's theater world. As has long been apparent, whatever inhibitions remained stemming from ancient associations of the theater with Hellenism and hedonism have been overcome for the vast majority of Israelis. Theater in Israel is a very popular and significant feature of the cultural landscape. In proportion to its population, theater attendance is quite high and the socio-economic range of theater patrons is unusually broad. This seeming fervor for the stage may be due in part to the special context of theatrical activity in Israel. The reader learns that about 60% of the total is state-supported or municipally affiliated, and 70% of theater tickets are purchased at the workplace. Theater criticism figures notably in the reading habits and conversational topics of the cultural elite. The colorful background of Israel's present day theater is the first subject scrutinized. Its history and the unfolding of its dramatic traditions are traced from the earliest pre-state beginnings to the latest fringe theater components. In one professional sense, it has come full-circle, from the arrival of the Habima players schooled by Vakhtangov and Stanislavsky to the founding of the top-rated Gesher Theater, made up-like Habima in its day--of newcomers from Russia. Succeeding sections are devoted to characteristic trends in Israeli drama. Included are an examination of the image of the Arab in the country's plays Hebrew Studies 38 (1997) 204 Reviews and a symposium on independent Arab drama and theater. Important European influences interpreted by Israeli playwrights are analyzed as well as the persistent leiunotif materials of the Holocaust and the Akeda trauma, evoked directly or indirectly. For the most part, these sections are wellwritten and avoid the turgid prose and esoteric terminology of dramaturgical specialists. However, the prime feature of this book is its success in familiarizing the reader with Israel's best-known playwrights: Nissim Aloni, Hanoch Levin, and Yehoshua Sobol. The combined studies, comparative descriptions, and interviews highlight the messages inherent in their work and vividly clarify why their plays, as commentaries on the Israeli reality, provoke intense and painful controversy. Two shortcomings blunt the book's impact. One is easily corrected. Inadequate proofreading and copy editing left a trail of typos and inconsistent usages that confuse or jar the reader. The second involves content. As Ben-Zvi readily concedes, Israeli theater is strongly secular, leftist, and liberal. Yet it seems an excess of political correctness to deem specific Jewish attachment to the land "racist" whereas Arab attachment is depicted as romantic. The term "sexist" is reserved for the religious or conservative critic; the misogyny in Hanoch Levin's plays does not earn him this title. Thorough adoption of Arab perceptions in Arab-Israeli disputes is likened to recent Hollywood focus on the cause of the Native American. Butabsent any Native American threat to the continued existence of the United States-the parallel is certainly clumsy. Moreover, even a secularized Jewish culture would identify Hanukkah as an eight day holiday everywhere -not, as appendix 3 claims, "seven days in Israel." It would date Purim as the fourteenth of Adar rather than "the...