Description
This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the Chinese diaspora in Europe from the 17th century to the present, emphasizing its profound influence on national relations between China and European countries. Beginning with the earliest Chinese sojourners brought by missionaries and traders, it traces the waves of migration spurred by historical events such as the Opium Wars, World Wars, and China’s Reform and Opening Up. The study examines how these diasporas were not only responses to global geopolitical shifts but also catalysts that reshaped bilateral relations. By exploring the changing roles of the Chinese diaspora—from scholars and labourers to merchants and entrepreneurs—the paper highlights how their integration into European societies influenced perceptions and policies on both continents. It delves into the reciprocal impact of Chinese government policies toward overseas nationals and European immigration laws, revealing a complex interplay that has shaped migration flows and diaspora experiences. Through global diaspora governance frameworks, the paper argues that the Chinese diaspora has been instrumental in fostering cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and diplomatic dialogue between China and Europe. By illuminating the diaspora’s role as a bridge between East and West, the study offers fresh insights into the significance of transnational communities in international relations. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how diaspora dynamics can influence and enhance national relations, providing valuable perspectives for scholars and policymakers in the fields of diaspora and migration studies, international relations, and global history.
