Academic diaspora response in crisis: an alternative approach

ABSTRACT

The contribution of the diaspora has always been measured in terms of remittances to the country of origin. This article examines academic diasporas that contribute to their countries of origin in times of crisis and beyond through scholarly and innovative work. I argue that in times of crisis, the links between the diaspora and the country of origin are strengthened. Altruism, humanitarianism, benevolence, spirit, nostalgia, and the desire to rediscover origins are the main motivators for connection. This article proposes an alternative framework for analyzing the academic and intellectual contribution of the diaspora to its origins in times of crisis. This article is based on a thorough examination of triangulations between established and emerging diaspora theories and contemporary practices. Destination countries benefit from expertise and knowledge, while source countries can use diaspora intellectual resources to mitigate the effects of crises.

KEYWORDS:

• Academic diaspora
• crisis
• pandemic
• origin
• destination

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No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

A. K. M. Ahsan Ullah

A. K. M. Ahsan Ullah is Associate Professor of Geography, Environment and Development at the University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD). He has an extensive research portfolio and has worked with prestigious institutions such as the City University of Hong Kong, IPH at the University of Ottawa, McMaster University, Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University in Canada, the American University in Cairo (AUC), Osnabruck University, Germany, and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand. Dr. Ullah’s research focuses on important global issues such as population migration, human rights, development, globalisation, and the environment. He has published 15 books, 60 articles in leading academic journals, and 40 book chapters.