The Role of Diasporas in Global Politics: The Experience of Israel, China, India, and Kazakhstan

Abstract

Diasporas play a significant role in contemporary global politics as transnational actors. They maintain connections with both their homeland and host countries, exerting political and economic influence. The establishment of the State of Israel and its relationship with the Jewish diaspora serve as a clear example of this process. The 1950 Law of Return legalized the right of Jews to repatriate to Israel, solidifying the ideology of Zionism. The repatriation policy crisis of the 1990s necessitated a reconsideration of interaction forms with the diaspora. Israel leverages the political and economic potential of the Jewish diaspora through the influential AIPAC lobby in the United States, which plays a crucial role in foreign policy by protecting Israel’s interests and shaping a positive image of the country in Washington and the media.

The concepts and terminology of the Chinese diaspora are examined, highlighting its complexity. The history of Chinese migration to Australia is analyzed, including the political and economic factors of the 1970s–1990s. Special attention is given to the socio-economic integration of the Chinese diaspora in Australia, their activity in entrepreneurship and education, as well as their economic ties with the homeland.

The global dispersion of the Indian diaspora and the Indian government’s policy on regulating its status are discussed. The number of Indians abroad is approximately 27 million, with major communities residing in the USA, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Since 2000, the government has implemented programs to work with the diaspora through specialized committees and ministries aimed at attracting investment and addressing social issues. The phenomenon of “dual loyalty” of the Indian diaspora in the USA is also analyzed.

Kazakhstan’s policy to support the Kazakh diaspora abroad is implemented through the activities of the “Otandastar” Foundation and the national company “KAZAKH INVEST.” The “Қазақ үйі” (Kazakh House) project creates a network of cultural centers worldwide that promote the Kazakh language and culture. International events and the “Ұлы дала” (Great Steppe) literary contest strengthen the spiritual ties of the diaspora and aim to preserve cultural heritage. All these initiatives contribute to strengthening the national identity of the Kazakh diaspora and developing economic cooperation.