A Sociology of Diaspora Knowledge Networks

Abstract

Diaspora knowledge networks (DKNs) — associations of highly skilled expatriates willing to contribute to the development of their origin countries — emerged in the 1990s. For mobility studies and migration policies, this meant a shift in the existing emphasis on brain drain toward a perspective on brain gain and from the physical return of people to distant though dense and continuous connections. The traditional ‘return option’ is distinguished from the ‘diaspora option’ with respect to the potentials of migration for development. Highly skilled migrants were no longer to be seen only as human capital holders to be repatriated but also as accessible social capital mediators who could potentially be mobilized in support of the country of origin (Barré et al., 2003). As new actors in the migration-development arena, DKNs have raised interests and expectations. But they have also been received with some suspicion, doubt and criticism as to their actual ability to perform a development role effectively. This chapter discusses new literature and empirical evidence from different world regions to point to the weaknesses of the DKN but also to the visible strengths. Thus it conceives of the DKN as an essential element of the migration-development nexus.