Disaggregating Diasporas as a Force in Role Contestation

This book explores how Tamil diaspora mass movements and interest groups influence domestic foreign policy, particularly in the context of the Sri Lankan civil war, highlighting their role in elite decision-making.

Disaggregating Diasporas as a Force in Role Contestation explores the influence of Tamil diaspora mass movements and interest groups on domestic foreign policy through the lens of Role Theory. The author, Matthew K. Godwin, highlights how these often marginalized groups can act as significant players in shaping foreign policy decisions, a perspective that has not been extensively examined in existing literature.

Godwin conducts a detailed analysis of the responses of the British and Canadian governments to the Sri Lankan civil war and its aftermath during 2009 and 2013. Utilizing qualitative interviews and content analysis, he presents a nuanced narrative that reveals how diaspora elites, when aligned with credible partisan advocates, can effectively leverage the power of mass movements to contest and influence foreign policy roles. However, he also discusses the limitations posed by international institutional constraints, which can hinder these groups' ability to perform their preferred roles, particularly when states are reliant on these institutions.

This book is particularly relevant for students and researchers in fields such as International Relations, Foreign Policy Analysis, Comparative Politics, and Migration Studies. It also serves as a valuable resource for non-governmental organizations aiming to understand and navigate the complexities of influencing governmental policies. Godwin's work contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in diaspora engagement and the broader implications for foreign policy.