How can a diaspora be even more of an asset for a country?

A very interesting peer-to-peer learning and strategy workshop spread over two days with thirty participants from Asia, Africa and Europe, looking at the question of how to link a diaspora with home countries in a way that brings a win-win for both the individuals concerned and the home country (not to mention the host country too).

On the first day (the peer-to-peer learning part), we explored some fascinating examples of how governments have been able to structure and engage with their diaspora, using systems like the “yellow card” in Ethiopia, which allow non-citizens who are closely linked to the country but living outside its borders (e.g. former nationals, children of nationals) to retain a link with the country – even to benefit from many aspects of citizenship (except the right to vote and on certain security-related issues). The second day then explored the decisions needed for another country to build on its own existing card and create a dynamic relationship with its own diaspora

Certainly an eye opener on what can be done in the modern networked era.