Diaspora: Origins, Evolution and Engagement

Summary

This video explores the concept of diaspora, focusing on its evolution from classical to modern understandings. It discusses how the term originated in Greek, initially describing Jewish, Greek, and Armenian dispersions, and now refers to broader groups defined by shared national, cultural, or linguistic ties. The video also examines the role of origin countries in engaging with their diaspora populations through capacity building, rights extension, and obligations. It highlights varying definitions and examples from global institutions and explains the strategies these countries use to maintain connections with their dispersed citizens.

Takeaways

• 😀 The term 'diaspora' originates from the Greek language, meaning 'to scatter' or 'to show through.'
• 😀 The concept of diaspora was first used to describe the Jewish experience of dispersal, later expanding to include Greek and Armenian experiences.
• 😀 Classical definitions of diaspora focused on three main elements: the dispersal process, the dispersed community, and the spaces they inhabit.
• 😀 Modern definitions of diaspora emphasize national, cultural, or linguistic connections between geographically separated groups.
• 😀 Modern definitions also consider voluntary migration, recognizing that diasporas are not always formed through forced migration.
• 😀 Contemporary diaspora definitions highlight transnational linkages between migrant populations and their places of origin.
• 😀 Classical diaspora views emphasized eventual return migration, while modern perspectives stress host-country integration or biculturalism.
• 😀 Some definitions of diaspora allow self-identification, whereas others are more institutionalized, with external classifications of groups.
• 😀 Different global, regional, and national institutions define diaspora in varied ways. For example, the World Bank defines diaspora as foreign-born populations, excluding their descendants.
• 😀 Diaspora engagement policies, typically categorized as capacity building, rights extension, and obligation extension, aim to maintain connections between origin countries and their diaspora communities.
• 😀 Capacity building includes establishing embassies, media campaigns, and cultural outreach events to maintain ties with diaspora groups, while rights extension may involve political rights like voting or eligibility for office.

Q & A

What is the origin of the term 'diaspora'?

The term 'diaspora' originates from the Greek language, with 'dia' meaning 'through' or 'between,' and 'sparrow,' meaning 'to scatter.' It was originally used to describe the Jewish historical experience of dispersal.

How did the term 'diaspora' evolve over time?

Initially, the term was used to describe specific ethno-national groups like the Jews, Greeks, and Armenians. Over time, it evolved to encompass broader migration patterns, focusing more on shared characteristics like cultural, national, or linguistic awareness, rather than specific ethnic groups.

What are the three key reference points in classical diaspora definitions?

The three key reference points in classical diaspora definitions are: 1) the process of people becoming dispersed, 2) the community that has been dispersed, and 3) the places or spaces where the dispersed people live.

How do modern definitions of diaspora differ from classical ones?

Modern definitions focus on transnational linkages between diaspora groups and their origin country, rather than the idea of return migration to a homeland. They also recognize both voluntary and forced migration, and they often emphasize integration and biculturalism in the host country.

Can you explain the 1989 definition of diaspora by Marientras?

The 1989 definition by Marientras describes diaspora as a group with a degree of national, cultural, or linguistic awareness of a relationship with a group settled elsewhere, typically in a geographically discontinuous location.

What does Veritovex's 2009 definition of diaspora focus on?

Veritovex’s 2009 definition of diaspora focuses on the 'imagined connection' between post-migration populations (including refugees) and their place of origin, acknowledging the existence of both voluntary and forced migration.

How have the causes of dispersal changed in modern definitions of diaspora?

While classical definitions viewed dispersal as mostly forced, due to persecution or suffering, modern definitions also acknowledge voluntary migration as a significant cause of dispersal.

What role does host country integration play in modern diaspora definitions?

Modern diaspora definitions often focus on the integration of diaspora groups into their host countries, with an emphasis on maintaining connections to their origin country while adopting a bicultural identity or contributing to both societies.

What are some examples of institutional definitions of diaspora?

Examples include the World Bank's definition of diaspora as a foreign-born population (excluding descendants of migrants), the African Union’s broader definition that includes people of African origin willing to contribute to the continent’s development, and the Scottish Government’s definition, which includes those with an affection for Scotland, not necessarily based on family ties.

What are the three broad categories of diaspora engagement by governments?

The three broad categories of diaspora engagement are: 1) Capacity building (e.g., establishing embassies and cultural outreach), 2) Rights extension (e.g., voting rights and special services for returnees), and 3) Obligation extension (e.g., taxes or remittance requirements and promoting political agendas abroad).