Connecting with the diaspora: lessons from the Scottish Experience

During the last decade, more governments from the state to the local level, have began to develop diaspora engagement strategies. Scotland did so in 2023, drawing heavily upon commissioned research from Professor Murray Leith and Dr Duncan Sim, who have been researching the Scottish diaspora together for over 18 years. During this talk, Professor Leith will discuss what lessons can be drawn from the Scottish example around both developing and understanding what makes an effective diaspora engagement strategy. With Scotland stating that the diaspora ‘is an extension of Scotland itself’ it becomes necessary to work with both the diaspora and the homeland. Thus, Professor Leith will specifically consider what lessons Scotland can provide around effective diaspora policy development, considering not only the diaspora and engagement activities, but also what the homeland needs to understand about its diaspora too.