Towards a Multi-disciplinary Framing of Diaspora Networks in International Business

Abstract

The phenomenon of diaspora networks in international business can be approached with a multitude of lenses, positive, negative and disciplinary. Building on the contributions of the book, we find that there is no “one size fits all” but specific, almost customized lenses are needed for particular research problems- and more dialectic approach in addressing the discussions. Diaspora matters are not only conceptually complicated, due to the international, even global dimensions and nuances, but it is also necessary to contextualize better the settings in which diaspora networks act and shape international business and entrepreneurship. The context of a developing country may differ greatly from a developed country and present other mechanisms and flows, just like political transitions and crises. Importantly, the balancing of disciplinary lenses and the mainstreaming of diaspora and migration are issues that are changing. The shift from the deficit and problem view to the agency and opportunity view is in making. The contributions here illustrate how both exist, representing the different sides of the token. Broadening the lenses may involve framings, contexts, transformations, transnationalism, time and timing, position in society, benefits for business and the asset side of diaspora. A more multi-disciplinary understanding is expected to diminish the theory-practice gaps, the danger of bias and misinterpretations and facilitate advancing the body of knowledge with new evidence.