Diaspora Communities and the Conduct of Foreign Relations in the 21st Century- a Focused Comparison of Somalia and South Sudan

Abstract

The diaspora in the 21st century is attracting significant attention due to its linkages and potential role in foreign relations among nations. As international migration continues to increase due to economic reasons or political instability, opportunities to utilize diaspora to promote host country foreign policy exists. This study investigated the active role of diaspora communities from Somalia and South Sudan residing in Kenyain diplomatic work. Its objectives were to (1)explore the extent to which diaspora communities participate in foreign policy formulation and conduct in the 21st century international system, (2) examine the role of diaspora in the conduct of foreign relations in Africa, and asses the influence of diaspora communities on the conduct of foreign relations in Africa, and (3)asses the influence of diasp[ora communities on the conduct of foreign relations comparing Somalia and South Sudan.The study used a comparative Case study method, where 73 out of targeted sample of 90 comprising 22 Somali and 24 South Sudan diaspora (nationals) and 27 foreign ministry officials completed an online questionnaire and qualitative data were analysed to identify majeor themes.Given that diasppra diplomacy involves many formal and informal actors and it’s a multifaceted practice that transcends state power or control, the Assemblage theory was deemed the the appropriate theoretical framework for understanding how diaspora communities’ interactions with governments has shaped foreign relation in the 21st century.With regard to the place of diaspora in foreign policy formulation and conduct, the study’s major findings that the Kenyan government engages diaspora through direct pursuit of foreign policy, collaborating with influential individuals, and through the ministry of foreign affairs. The study also found that the Somali and South Sudanese diaspora plays three major roles in diplomacy: interacting directly with their homeland communities on issues affecting their kin, intervening in Security and inter-ethnic conflict, and promoting economic develop through FDI. The study also found out that compared to South Sudanese diaspora, the Somali diaspora were more engaged by the Kenyan government due to rising concerns over terrorism. Areas of engagegment of South Sudanese included human and drug trafficking, while for Somalia they were terrorism and smuggling. The conclusion made from these findings were that diaspora diplomacy is an effective soft power approach for Kenya’s foreign policy in both Somalia and South Sudan, the diapora’s role in foreign relations is higher among South Sudanese diaspora than among Somalis in Kenya. The study’s recommendation for diaspora organizations through registration and restructuring to align them with Kenya’s diplomatic priorites. Further, linking the diaspora communities to regional and international networks and building the technical competencies of the diaspora through skills training on diplomacy and communication skills are recommended for Kenya to fully exploit diaspora diplomacy for better foreign relations.