The Eritrean Diaspora. Involvement in Homeland Affairs and its Role in the Making of Modern Eritrea

Table of Contents

1.Introduction

1.1 Motivation

1.2 Research on Eritrea

1.3 Aim, purpose, research questions

2.Methods

2.1 The Qualitative Method

2.2 The Respondents

2.3 The Interviews

2.4 Position of the researcher

3.Theoretical framework

3.1 Transnationalism

3.2 Diaspora

3.3 Long-distance nationalism

4.The Eritrean Diaspora - An Introduction

4.1 Historical Background on Eritrea

4.2 The emergence and expansion of the Eritrean diaspora

4.3 The magnitude of the Eritrean diaspora

5.Interactions between the Eritrean state and its diaspora

5.1 The war of independence

5.2 Post-independence phase

5.3 Social influences on the diaspora engagement

5.4 Economic diaspora engagement

5.4.1 Diaspora tax

5.4.2 The purchase of real estate

5.4.3 Governments bonds

5.4.4 Construction

5.4.5 Remittances

6.Conclusion

Research Aim and Objectives

This study provides an academic analysis of the transnational ties between the Eritrean state and its diaspora, examining how the government has integrated these exile communities into its national project both during the struggle for independence and in the post-independence state-building process. The core research aim is to understand the mechanisms of this institutionalized engagement and the role of the diaspora in shaping modern Eritrea.

• Analysis of policies and institutional frameworks used by the state to mobilize the diaspora.
• Evaluation of long-distance nationalism as a strategic tool for the Eritrean government.
• Investigation of economic contributions, including diaspora taxation and investment.
• Exploration of social and kinship ties that facilitate sustained transnational involvement.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1.Introduction: This chapter contextualizes the close relationship between the Eritrean government and its diaspora, defining the research problem and the primary questions guiding the study.

2.Methods: This chapter outlines the qualitative research design, detailing the semi-structured interview process with members of the diaspora and the researcher's positionality.

3.Theoretical framework: This chapter presents the academic concepts of transnationalism, diaspora, and long-distance nationalism as the tools for analyzing the Eritrean case study.

4.The Eritrean Diaspora - An Introduction: This chapter provides the historical background of Eritrea and tracks the emergence and subsequent growth of its global diaspora population.

5.Interactions between the Eritrean state and its diaspora: This chapter examines the specific mechanisms, policies, and economic strategies used to maintain ties between the state and its expatriate citizens.

6.Conclusion: This chapter synthesizes the main findings, reflecting on the institutionalization of the diaspora and the ongoing challenges of this relationship.

Keywords

Eritrea, Diaspora, Transnationalism, Long-distance nationalism, EPLF, PFDJ, Independence war, Identity, Remittances, Homeland, State-building, Qualitative research, Migration, Political engagement, Kinship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core focus of this research paper?

The paper explores the intricate relationship between the Eritrean state and its global diaspora, examining how the former independence movement institutionalized its influence over exiled communities.

What are the primary themes discussed?

Key themes include transnationalism, the political mobilization of diaspora members, the influence of long-distance nationalism, and economic engagement through taxes and investments.

What is the central research question?

The research asks how the former independence movement and the nascent state influenced and harnessed the engagement of the diaspora in homeland affairs during and after the struggle for independence.

What methodology was utilized?

The study employs a qualitative methodology, specifically relying on secondary literature analysis and semi-structured interviews with four key members of the Eritrean diaspora.

What does the main body of the work cover?

It covers theoretical frameworks, the historical evolution of the Eritrean diaspora, and a detailed analysis of how the state utilizes legal and economic instruments to bind the diaspora to the homeland.

Which keywords best describe this study?

Major keywords include Eritrea, Diaspora, Transnationalism, Long-distance nationalism, EPLF, PFDJ, and Remittances.

How is the term "long-distance nationalism" applied to the Eritrean case?

It describes how Eritrean diaspora members maintain deep political and economic ties to their homeland, viewing their activities as vital contributions to the nation-state, regardless of their physical location abroad.

What is the significance of the "diaspora tax" or similar mechanisms?

These mechanisms serve both as a critical source of foreign exchange for the state and as a method to enforce national identity and ensure the continued participation of the diaspora in national affairs.