Diaspora Identity and the Potential for Violence: Toward an Identity-Mobilization Framework

Abstract

This article begins to address the need to better understand the motivation that leads some diaspora members to engage in violent activities and, from that understanding, to identify those most vulnerable to succumbing to its recruitment. The identity-mobilization framework is intended as a set of hypotheses to stimulate dialogue as well as empirical research on these issues. Following a brief note on diasporas and the potential security risks they pose, the article proceeds in three sections: the first section discusses diaspora identity, why it matters, and factors that influence its construction; the second considers why diaspora identity construction holds a potential for conflict; and the third addresses diaspora mobilization, and develops the identity-mobilization framework. The framework brings together identity construction strategies, locus of identity, and resulting acculturation strategies and potential contributions. The article closes with policy implications.