Author: Arsala Nizami
Publisher: Global Research Forum on Diaspora and Transnationalism
Research Monograph Series
This paper is an attempt to understand the transnational links ofand strategies adopted by diasporas in engaging with their homelands vis-à-vis policies adopted by homelands in engaging its diasporas. It
undertakes case studies of four South Asian conflicts and analyses it through the lensesof above written
parameters. South Asian conflicts taken for the same are: Sri Lankan conflict, Kashmir conflict, Afghan-
istan conflict and Khalistan conflict
Keeping the above premises in mind, this paper takes case studies of four conflicts and analyses the role
of diasporas as conflict resolvers or perpetuators. Sikh diaspora groups backed the Khalistan movement
through social, financial and political means. Afghanistan diaspora groups have been assisting the state
in post conflict reconstruction. A major faction of Kashmiri diaspora groups is engaged in awareness
campaigns, promoting online forums for discussions, brainstorming sessions, silent marches etc. to
build peace in the region. A major faction of Tamil diasporas’ approach to the conflict is to directly get
involved by funding and supporting the LTTE in Sri Lanka. Therefore, differences in the approaches
of different diaspora groups relating to their ethnic conflicts are apparent and need a detailed examina-
tion.