Diaspora and Development : Transnational engagement among members of the Somaliland diaspora in Norway

Abstract

What is the scope of, and what can explain, transnational contributions to development by the Somaliland diaspora in Norway? There is an acknowledgement today that migrants do not simply ‘leave’ their homes. Instead they maintain ties with their families and friends left behind by sending remittances, visiting, creating transnational organizations etc. Through various transnational activities, members of diasporas have the potential to act in ways that can prolong conflict, or contribute to peace and development. Despite some methodological and conceptual challenges, a transnational framework was applied in this thesis.

One conclusion is that members of the Somaliland diaspora in Norway are engaged in a wide variety of transnational activities that spans economic, political, cultural and social dimensions. In particular, many are engaged by sending private and collective remittances. Importantly, some individuals are more engaged than others, illustrating the heterogeneous nature of diasporas. Another conclusion is that there are many different factors that can explain one individual’s transnational engagement. The findings indicate that important factors are marginalization in Norway, obligations and responsibility towards family in Somaliland, and the possibilities to ‘be somebody’ in Somaliland.