Transnational Lives in the Shadow of Repression: Diaspora Youth and the Struggle for Democracy

- What strategies do repressive states employ to mobilize and/or control their second-generation diasporas?
- What are the motives, opportunities, and obstacles for second generation diasporas to mobilize in support of repressive government of their homeland?
- What are the motives, opportunities, and obstacles for second generation diasporas to mobilize against repression in their respective homeland states?

The project is designed as a qualitative comparative case study of four authoritarian states in Africa and the Middle East with sizable diasporas. Whilst taking its point of departure in the Swedish context, the project identifies relevant groups, organizations and initiatives in Sweden, Europe, and the world. The researchers will analyse policy documents and other documentation, as well as conduct interviews with relevant actors.

The research team will map four authoritarian states’ strategies for engaging their young generation abroad by analysing policy documents and conducting interviews. Subsequently, the research team will study the young generations’ motivations, opportunities, and obstacles for either supporting or resisting the authoritarian regimes in their parents’ homelands.

The GIGA is responsible for the case study on Eritrea.