Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work in various regions of the world. Communicating with people from diverse cultures is often a challenge, and always an opportunity for growth. In my experience, this approach has often been facilitated thanks to the diaspora.
I will show you two real examples from my work, although without giving names for confidentiality reasons. In the first, I collaborated on a project to foster societal change in a country. In the second, an organization asked me to prepare a report for another country’s society on the benefits of their new regional policies.
In both cases, involving citizens of these countries in my work, even before travelling to the country, was beneficial. Not only to identify the most effective methods to approach communication but also to understand their needs.
But contact with the diaspora is not only useful at a professional level. Cultural diversity in our personal environment also promotes mutual understanding and a more inclusive social contract.
Migration and the diaspora represent much more than the simple movement of people from one place to another. These communities, maintaining connections with their homelands, integrate into another culture while helping that society understand theirs in their new homes. And this role of all these people who have had to move from their homeland for whatever reason is subtle but essential in diplomacy and public relations, even though they are not invited actors at the negotiation tables.
Their influence extends beyond borders, creating bridges between cultures and nations, transforming societies, economies, and policies.
Migration, a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, refers to the movement of people driven by a variety of factors, including conflicts, search for opportunities, or environmental changes. The diaspora, however, represents a deeper and more nuanced concept. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the diaspora includes migrants or descendants of migrants whose identity and sense of belonging have been influenced by their migration experience. These communities, often formed by both voluntary and forced migrations, maintain a collective memory and a sense of group that persists over time.
In recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the vital role diasporas play in global development. Many countries have initiated programmes to strengthen ties with their diaspora communities, recognising their capacity to improve social, economic, and cultural links between their countries of origin and destination. These policies range from consular services to specific programmes in areas such as health, education, and the economy.
The involvement of diasporas in the development of their countries of origin is diverse, extending from the passive reception of information to active participation in development initiatives. Beyond remittances, diasporas foster a variety of relationships that contribute to sustainable development.
Diasporas act as cultural ambassadors, influencing perceptions and policies between their countries of origin and residence. In today’s social landscape, where globalization and interdependence are increasingly prominent, their role is fundamental to understanding and navigating the complex environment of global communication and public diplomacy.
Diasporas are key actors in bilateral diplomacy. Through their unique experiences and perspectives, they contribute significantly to strengthening relations between countries. A notable example is the Indian diaspora in the United States.
According to a study by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, this community maintains a deep connection with India, influencing policies and perceptions in both the U.S. and India. The survey reveals how Indian Americans view their homeland and their role in international diplomacy, highlighting their support for strengthening the relationship between Washington and New Delhi.
This role of diasporas in bilateral diplomacy is underlined in works like ‘The Public Relations Handbook’ by Alison Theaker, where the need to recognise the diverse needs of these communities in all public relations programmes is emphasised. Moreover, ‘The Oxford Handbook of Modern Diplomacy‘ highlights the importance of diasporas in bilateral diplomacy, especially when they share nationality with the diplomat’s country of origin. These cultural links serve as valuable tools for strengthening bilateral ties.
Despite their potential in enriching bilateral relations and public diplomacy, diasporas face significant challenges that can hinder their effectiveness and well-being. Xenophobia and racism are persistent issues affecting these communities globally.
Beyond the challenges they face, diasporas present unique opportunities in the field of international relations and public diplomacy. These communities can play vital roles in promoting cultural understanding, international cooperation, and strengthening a country’s image abroad.
Fostering the active participation of the diaspora is crucial for leveraging their potential in building stronger and more effective international relations. Initiatives like the EU Global Diaspora Facility (EUDiF) represent a significant shift towards a more inclusive approach to development.
EU Global Diaspora Facility: A paradigm of inclusion
The EUDiF is an initiative of the European Union that aims to systematize and enhance the participation of the diaspora in global development. This project focuses on strengthening the capacity of diasporas to contribute to development in their countries of origin and residence.
Key features of the EUDiF
Examples of EUDiF’s impact
A notable example of EUDiF’s work is its project in the Philippines, where it collaborated with the Filipino diaspora to develop vocational training and education programs. This project not only benefits Filipinos abroad but also contributes to skill and knowledge development in the Philippines.
Another example is the collaboration with the African diaspora in Europe to support health initiatives in several African countries. These projects have helped improve healthcare services in vulnerable communities and strengthened ties between Europe and Africa.
The diaspora teaches us a valuable lesson: in the diversity of our stories and experiences, we find bridges to deeper understanding and more effective communication. These communities have the capacity to foster more inclusive and resonant dialogue while allowing us to enrich our perspective and step out of our comfort zone through new cultures.
In my communication, I seek respect and recognition for diversity when sharing knowledge, fostering initiatives, and/or creating links.
Your voice and experiences are essential to enriching this dialogue. Do you have any personal stories related to the diaspora or ideas on how we can improve the integration and impact of these communities in diplomacy and public relations?
I invite you to respond here; I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences.
Co-creation becomes meaningful when partners know what they can influence, have the resources to participate and can see the impact of their contribution.
Culture can leave more than visibility behind. When it provides access, continuity and decision-making power, it creates valuable conditions for democratic life.
Saying AI was used is not enough. This article explains when to disclose it, what a useful notice should include and how to document human review.