Governing the Nation Beyond Borders: Power and Politics in Diaspora Engagement

In an era of intensifying transnational ties, states are increasingly crafting diaspora engagement policies that project an image of inclusivity, national unity, and global reach. However, behind this seemingly benign trend lies a more complex reality. This talk critically examines the limits of diaspora governance and diplomacy, with a focus on selective engagement strategies that often obscure deeper political dynamics. Drawing primarily on the case of Turkey—while also referencing other contexts—it explores how diaspora policies may serve as instruments of soft power, tools for surveillance, or mechanisms of transnational repression. In divided societies, diaspora engagement often mirrors domestic power struggles, extending ideological polarization and marginalizing dissenting voices abroad. While officially framed as fostering connection and development, such policies frequently reinforce exclusions based on ethnicity, political affiliation, or ideological stance. By interrogating the gap between normative narratives and practical implementation, this talk highlights the need for a more critical and nuanced understanding of state-diaspora relations today.

Speaker Dr Bahar Baser is a Professor of Politics and International Relations at Durham University’s School of Government and International Affairs and a member of the Institute for Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies. Her research focuses on diaspora studies, peacebuilding, and conflict transformation, with a particular emphasis on the Middle East. She has conducted extensive research on diaspora engagement in peace processes, post-conflict reconstruction, and state-building in the Global South.

This event will support attendees to:

• Distinguish between concepts of governance, particularly external engagement with citizens;
• Develop a deeper understanding of democratization and doing research in the Global South;
• Network with other students in the CDD pathway.

This is a hybrid event (online and in person at the University of Leeds).

Bookings will close at 9am on Monday 9th June.

As places are limited, please book a place only if you are sure that you will be able to attend.

When booking, you must use your institutional (.ac.uk) email address and complete all fields of the booking form. Your booking will otherwise be cancelled, and you will need to re-book (subject to availability). Thank you for your understanding.