Neither from within nor from without: how states securitize diasporas

Abstract

Diasporas and their transnational ties to their homelands and various other networks raise heightened suspicion in their countries of residence. Diasporas are perceived as non-state actors that form transnational and non-transparent ties with their homelands, foster long-distance nationalism, and create potential dual loyalties. Moreover, they are perceived as a potential source of tension due to the possibility of transporting homeland conflicts, leading to public unrest and security issues in the transnational space. Countries of origin often share similar concerns. While harnessing the potential of diasporas has become a trend in the international arena, home states also, at times, perceive diasporas as conflict perpetuators, regime destabilizers or dissidents that need to be tamed and controlled. Both perspectives define diaspora members based on presumed geographic, racial, cultural, ethnic and religious origins; whether they embrace diasporas or treat them as potential threats, they still act to protect the cultural and political unity of the nation-state as we know it. This article explores how diasporas, especially from conflict areas, are constructed as security threats by various actors, while acknowledging a recent trend that celebrates diasporas as agents of peace. It argues that the securitization of diasporas remains prevalent across borders, and these policies serve a vital function for both host and home countries by affirming internal accountability and securing national unity by guarding against external threats to the state.