Transnational political engagement of African diaspora communities

This three-year research project explores how diaspora communities play a role in shaping policy and driving social change not just in and across their countries of residence, but also in their countries of origin.

Working with the local government and Ghanaian and Ethiopian diaspora organizations in the four biggest (Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht) and three smaller cities (Almere, Emmen and Tilburg) in the Netherlands, Dr Anthony Otieno Ong'ayo is interested in how individuals, organizations and communities interact with local decision-making – sometimes by being part of it and sometimes being outside of it.

He also explores the differences between large cities, where about half of the population is of non-white Dutch origin, and the smaller cities, where cultural diversity is much lower, in the effectiveness in shaping policy. The second phase of the research looks at the role these diaspora communities play in their countries of origin through, for example, remittances, exchange of knowledge, problem-solving and support to small and medium enterprises.  

Whilst the diaspora transnational networks are predominantly urban and have become more vibrant and diverse as a result of rapid communication developments, little is known about their political engagement in countries of residence and origin and the kind of influences they generate through these transnational practices.

On the basis of the research findings, an analysis will be made of the potential of diaspora associations to act as agents of civic-driven change at different levels.

Why is this research relevant?

Cities are increasingly diverse and needs of the populations are increasingly complex, yet we know relatively little about how to manage multi-cultural societies and how multi-cultural societies organize themselves. The research aims to provide city and national level governments with insights into the role of diaspora communities and policy recommendations.

Collaborations

The project collaborates with a wide range of state and civil society organizations both in the Netherlands: 

• Diaspora organizations and communities
• Ministries (Foreign Affairs, Social Affairs, Justice)
• Large municipalities (Amsterdam, the Hague Rotterdam, and Utrecht) as well as smaller municipalities (Almere, Emmen and Tilburg)
• Knowledge institutes and Think tanks
• Dutch NGOs working in the field of migration
• Political parties

and in Ghana and Ethiopia:

• Ministries (Foreign Affairs, Justice/Interior)
• Regional governments
• Municipalities (Cities)
• Knowledge institutes and Think tanks
• Civil society organizations NGOs working in the field of migration
• Local communities linked to Dutch based diasporas
• Political parties