Description
Taking its point of departure in recent debates on transnational repression and diaspora engagement, this paper systematically analyzes how authoritarian regimes seek to engage/govern/control their second-generation diasporas, whilst accounting for the opportunities and space second-generation diaspora actors might have to influence authoritarian regimes. Drawing on established frameworks theorizing extraterritorial authoritarian practices, we explore the ways in which diaspora youths are either included as subjects, patriots and clients, or excluded as outlaws and traitors.
While earlier research has –to a large extent– focused on the varied positions held either by regime-supporters or dissidents in the diaspora, we highlight inter-generational differences as yet another important factor in this domain. Whilst occasionally mentioned in passing, the particular positionalities and agency of second-generation diaspora actors are rarely theorized in a systematic way. This paper seeks to –at least partially– fill this gap and identifies a number of promising avenues for further empirical inquiries.
