Engaging Diasporas in Development: Contours and Outcomes of International Policymaking

Abstract

Over the past decade, diasporas as transnational agents have figured prominently on the agenda of a number of global as well as regional initiatives, processes, and forums devoted to exploring the migration–development nexus. This intense consultative activity stems from the increased realization of the role and positive impact diaspora communities could have on both sending and host countries’ development. The chapter takes the measure of this multilayer policymaking activity. It focuses on the contours and outcomes of the United Nations Global Commission on International Migration (GCIM), the High-Level Dialogue on Migration, and the Global Forum on Migration and Development. It also discusses key policy developments at the interregional (AU-EU) and regional (AU) levels centered around a set of four strategic policies that call on governments to identify their goals and capacities in relation to the diaspora, to know their diaspora, to build trust with the diaspora, and to implement targeted measures aimed at effectively mobilizing the diaspora for development.