Beyond Remittances: Public Diplomacy and Kosovo's Diaspora

Xharra, B. and Wählisch. M., 2012. Beyond Remittances: Public Diplomacy and Kosovo‘s Diaspora. Pristina: Foreign Policy Club.

72 Pages Posted: 15 Jul 2012 Last revised: 24 Jul 2012

See all articles by Behar Xharra

Behar Xharra

Columbia University

Martin Waehlisch

Humboldt University of Berlin - Faculty of Law; American University of Beirut

Date Written: July 16, 2012

Abstract

As a small, post-conflict country, Kosovo has limited capacities to reach out to the world. Lacking diplomatic recognition from many countries, burdened with a negative image, and still in the process of developing its economy, Kosovo’s opportunities to win support and strengthen its international ties are restricted. However, Kosovo’s foreign Public Diplomacy could benefit greatly from an untapped resource which has not yet been fully utilized as a foreign policy tool: its diaspora.

The aim of this study is to highlight the role of Kosovo’s diaspora as a resource for the country’s Public Diplomacy. The overview provided in this study gives insights into the challenges, status quo and options for engaging Kosovo’s diaspora for enhancing the country’s image, which could ultimately reinforce the country's diplomatic and economic development.

This study argues that the role of Kosovo’s diaspora is at a critical moment of being primarily perceived as a provider of remittances and investments in Kosovo towards being acknowledged as a catalyst for international linkages and entry points for business abroad.

The study consists of three parts: the first chapter focuses on the status quo, looking at challenges, strengths, opportunities, and the changing role of Kosovo’s diaspora. The second part touches on positive examples and success stories of Kosovo’s diaspora abroad. Finally, the third part gives an overview about comparative examples, which includes the case studies of Israel, Armenia, Serbia, and Rwanda, offering intriguing lessons learnt and practical solutions. The conclusion provides a reflection about entry points for future activities and next steps of strategizing a diaspora involvement within the country’s foreign policy.

Keywords: Kosovo, Balkans, Diaspora, Public Diplomacy, Role Models, Development, Internet, e-Diplomacy

Suggested Citation

Xharra, Behar and Waehlisch, Martin, Beyond Remittances: Public Diplomacy and Kosovo's Diaspora (July 16, 2012). Xharra, B. and Wählisch. M., 2012. Beyond Remittances: Public Diplomacy and Kosovo‘s Diaspora. Pristina: Foreign Policy Club. , Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2108317

Behar Xharra

Columbia University ( email )

3022 Broadway
New York, NY 10027
United States

Martin Waehlisch (Contact Author)

Humboldt University of Berlin - Faculty of Law ( email )

Unter den Linden 6
Berlin, D-10099
Germany

American University of Beirut ( email )

Issam Fares Institute
P.O.Box 11-0236
Beirut
Lebanon

HOME PAGE: http://www.aub.edu.lb/ifi/

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