Migration and the Role of Diaspora Communities in Sustainable Development

Abstract

This study posits that Diaspora Communities have the potential to serve as catalysts for sustainable development due to their distinct characteristics, enabling them to contribute substantially in both their adopted nations and countries of origin. It examines the complex connection between migration and sustainable development, particularly emphasizing the duties diasporas play through diverse means such as financial remittances, knowledge transfer, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and cultural exchange within their respective global communities. This research presents a novel methodology for analyzing diaspora-driven development, drawing on a comprehensive range of primary and secondary data sources. Findings reveal that without a transparent framework for involvement, collaboration and advocacy, the connections between expatriate communities and their countries of origin tend to be temporary and limited to specific sectors, events, or locations. The study recommends an effective policy framework for the diaspora demographic database to enhance information accessibility and skills pool tracking and an improved formal framework to support Diaspora remittances and projects and strengthen the role of Diaspora Associations for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals and consistent collaboration/relationship between these entities.