The Diaspora Country Index (DCI) acts as a vital tool for Global South countries, offering a structure and resources aimed at improving engagement with their diasporas abroad to promote development. In light of the recent substantial decline in global official Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), many emerging economies need to create strategic links and cultivate robust ties with their talented diaspora populations to make up for the decrease in both technical and financial aid.
Here’s why it’s important:
- Governance and Accountability: diaspora communities contribute to governance improvements and accountability, often advocating for transparency and electoral participation from abroad.
- Sustainability and Resilience: dngaging the diaspora helps countries develop sustainable practices, crucial for handling population growth and environmental challenges.
- SDG Support: effective diaspora engagement aids in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting health, education, and poverty reduction.
- Digital Development: diaspora communities possess valuable technical skills and knowledge that can accelerate digital development initiatives in Africa.
- Science and Innovation: advancing scientific research and innovation, expanding research and development efforts, and creating local supplier ecosystems capable of addressing regional issues are crucial for economic growth and maintaining sovereignty.
Developing Countries:
- Sharing best practices on engaging one’s diaspora
- Incentivizing countries to improve on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Improving a countries position reaps benefits for foreign direct investment (FDI)
Donors / Philanthropy:
- Reward countries who are leveraging the diasporas for development purposes
- Identify professionals from the diaspora who can support initiatives
- Create policies from our data to support development