Diaspora Maqola Published

ISRA (India) = 6.317 SIS (USA) = 0.912 ICV (Poland) = 6.
630
ISI (Dubai, UAE) = 1.582 РИНЦ (Russia) = 3.939 PIF (India) = 1.940
Impact Factor: GIF (Australia) = 0.564 ESJI (KZ) = 8.771 IBI (India) = 4.260
JIF = 1.500 SJIF (Morocco) = 7.184 OAJI (USA) = 0.350
Issue Article
SOI: 1.1/TAS DOI: 10.15863/TAS
International Scientific Journal
Theoretical & Applied Science
p-ISSN: 2308-4944 (print) e-ISSN: 2409-0085 (online)
Year: 2023 Issue: 05 Volume: 121
Published: 29.05.2023 http://T-Science.org

Zuhriddin Juraev
Chonnam National University
General Graduate School, College of Social Sciences
Ikhtiyor Rasulov
General Graduate School, College of Social Sciences,
chonnamphdteam@gmail.com
Kobilbek Soliev
General Graduate School, College of Social Sciences
REVIEW: HOW SUITABLE DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT POLICY FOR

UZBEKISTAN?
Abstract: In today's global environment, engaging with diaspora politics is crucial. To fully realise the potential
of its diaspora community, promote economic growth, cultural preservation and social inclusion, and build
relationships with its diaspora to reap mutual benefits and achieve sustainable growth, Uzbekistan needs to
implement a diaspora engagement strategy. This article looks at India's “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas” diaspora
engagement policy and focuses on the benefits it has for Uzbekistan. We have found that this policy benefits
Uzbekistan by promoting networking opportunities, knowledge sharing, investment and cultural preservation. It also
strengthens ties with the Uzbek diaspora and harnesses their skills and resources for the growth and development of
both countries.
Key words: diaspora, migration, diaspora engagement policy, India, Uzbekistan.
Language: English
Citation: Juraev, Z., Rasulov, I., & Soliev, K. (2023). Review: How Suitable Diaspora Engagement Policy for
Uzbekistan?. ISJ Theoretical & Applied Science, 05 (121), 585-591.
Soi: http://s-o-i.org/1.1/TAS-05-121-60 Doi: https://dx.doi.org/10.15863/TAS
Scopus ASCC: 3300.
Introduction communities to drive sustainable development and

The politics of diaspora engagement is forge stronger ties between nations. A policy of
significant in today's global landscape. As the world diaspora engagement is necessary for Uzbekistan to
becomes increasingly interconnected, diaspora harness the potential of its diaspora community,
communities have proven to be valuable assets promote economic development, cultural preservation
contributing to economic, social and cultural and social integration, and strengthen relations
development in both their countries of origin and their between Uzbekistan and its diaspora, leading to
host countries. Recognising the potential of diaspora mutual benefits and sustainable growth. There is an
communities and implementing effective engagement exemplary model for engaging the diaspora, namely
policies can foster mutually beneficial relationships, the "Pravasi Bharatiya Divas" (Day of Non-Resident
harness their skills and resources, and advance Indians). This article aims to discuss the diaspora
cooperation on various fronts. In an era characterised engagement policy of India: “Pravasi Bharatiya
by transnational linkages and mobility, diaspora Divas” and suggest its benefits for Uzbekistan. We
engagement policy is an important tool to harness the found that this policy benefits by promoting
talents, networks and diversity of diaspora investment, knowledge sharing, cultural preservation
Philadelphia, USA 585

ISRA (India) = 6.317 SIS (USA) = 0.912 ICV (Poland) = 6.630
and networking opportunities, strengthening ties with Uzbekistan is a country with a diverse
the Uzbek diaspora and harnessing their skills and population and there are several diaspora
resources for mutual growth and development. communities living within its borders. There are
Diaspora in Uzbekistan. several notable diaspora communities in Uzbekistan.
Fig. 1. Diasporas in Uzbekistan

Russian
Diaspora
s
Tajik & Diasporas Korean

Kazakh in Diaspora
Diasporas Uzbekistan s
Other
Nations'
Diasporas
First, there is a significant Russian diaspora in communities from various countries, including
Uzbekistan due to historical ties and the presence of Ukraine, Armenia, Azerbaijan and other Central Asian
Russian-speaking communities. Many Russians and countries. Therefore, it is important to note that the
Russian speakers have lived in Uzbekistan for size and composition of diaspora communities in
generations. Secondly, there is a significant Korean Uzbekistan may change over time due to factors such
diaspora in Uzbekistan, commonly known as the as migration patterns, geopolitical developments and
“Koryo-saram” [고려 사람] community. They are demographic changes. The exact number of diaspora
descendants of Koreans brought to Central Asia communities in Uzbekistan may not be readily
during the Soviet era. There is also a Tajik and Kazakh available or officially documented.
diaspora. Because of Uzbekistan's proximity to Geographical Distribution of Diasporas in
Tajikistan, there is a substantial Tajik diaspora living Uzbekistan
in Uzbekistan, especially in the border regions and A geographical view of the diaspora in
areas with historically Tajik populations. And the Uzbekistan involves examining the distribution and
Kazakh diaspora consists of ethnic Kazakhs who have characteristics of diaspora communities within the
settled in the country over the years. There are also country. While Uzbekistan is primarily a country of
many other diaspora communities in Uzbekistan. This origin for migrants rather than a destination for large
is because the country hosts smaller diaspora diaspora communities, there are still some diaspora
communities living within the country's borders.
Fig. 2. Distribution of Diaspora communities
Geographic
Diasporas Distribution
Historical
Urban Border Diaspora
Centers Regions Communit
y areas
The geographical distribution of diaspora Major cities such as Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara
communities in Uzbekistan can vary due to factors and Ferghana can have more diverse populations,
such as historical migration patterns, economic including diaspora communities. These cities often
opportunities and proximity to neighbouring attract foreign residents, expatriates and professionals
countries. There are some regions in Uzbekistan with working in different sectors. Second, border regions.
a notable diaspora presence. First, urban centres. Areas near Uzbekistan's borders, such as those

bordering Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and acceptance in society is a challenge for diaspora
Afghanistan, may have diaspora populations from communities. In the case of Uzbekistan, it can take
these neighbouring countries. These communities time and effort to build relationships, form social
may have historical, cultural and family ties that networks and develop a sense of belonging, especially
transcend national borders. Historical diaspora in communities where cultural differences are
communities also occupied a place. In Uzbekistan, pronounced.
there may be diaspora communities that have lived in It is therefore important that the government,
the country for generations. For example, the Russian- civil society organisations and local communities
speaking community is strongly represented in address these challenges by promoting inclusion,
Uzbekistan, especially in urban areas and regions providing linguistic and cultural support, ensuring
where the Russian-speaking population is equal rights and opportunities, and creating a
concentrated. Thus, it is important to note that the size welcoming environment for diaspora communities to
and distribution of diaspora communities in flourish and contribute to society.
Uzbekistan may change over time due to migration In Uzbekistan, there are several institutions and
patterns, geopolitical developments and demographic organisations that look after the needs of the diaspora.
changes. Conducting a comprehensive study or These institutions focus on engaging with and
analysis using available data and research sources can supporting the diaspora, promoting cultural links and
provide a more accurate and up-to-date understanding responding to the needs of diaspora communities. The
of the geographical aspects of the diaspora in Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan plays an
Uzbekistan. important role in diaspora-related matters. It is
Challenges and Problems. responsible for developing and implementing policies
It is said that diaspora communities in related to diaspora engagement, consular services and
Uzbekistan face various challenges and problems. We maintaining diplomatic relations with other countries.
would like to mention here some of the most common The External Labour Migration Agency is also
problems faced by the diaspora in Uzbekistan. involved in the management of labour migration
First, language and cultural barriers. Language processes, including the protection of migrant
and cultural differences can be challenging for workers' rights and assistance to Uzbek migrant
diaspora communities when it comes to workers abroad. In addition, Uzbekistan has
communication, integration and access to services. established cultural centres and associations in
Language barriers can affect employment various countries to promote Uzbek culture, language
opportunities, education and interaction with local and traditions. These centres serve as platforms for
institutions. At times, diasporas can face cultural events, language courses and social
discrimination and prejudice, as they do in every gatherings and foster a sense of community among
country. Diaspora communities may face members of the diaspora. Several non-governmental
discrimination, prejudice or stereotyping based on organisations (NGOs) in Uzbekistan are actively
their ethnic or cultural background. This may manifest involved in diaspora activities. These organisations
itself in various forms, such as social exclusion, deal with issues such as human rights, migrant
limited opportunities or unequal treatment. However, workers' rights, cultural preservation and support for
we should note that legal and administrative diaspora communities. It is important to note, then,
complexities, regardless of reforms and that the specific institutions and organisations that
improvements, can pose a challenge to diasporas in deal with diaspora-related issues may evolve or
the country. Members of the diaspora often face change over time. For the most up-to-date and detailed
administrative problems related to residence permits, information, you should consult official government
work permits, documents and legal rights. Navigating sources and relevant organisations that specialise in
the bureaucratic processes and understanding the legal diaspora affairs in Uzbekistan.
framework can be difficult for diaspora communities, Exemplar Diaspora Engagement Policy
especially if they are unfamiliar with the local Indeed, there are several countries that have
systems. implemented diaspora engagement policies that are
Socio-economic inequalities are also a problem, considered exemplary in terms of their effectiveness
as they can exist in any country. Indeed, diaspora and impact. One country that is often cited as a role
communities are affected by economic inequalities model for diaspora engagement is India. According to
and unequal access to resources and opportunities. many studies, India's diaspora engagement policy,
Some diaspora members face socio-economic known as “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas” (Day of Non-
challenges, including limited employment Resident Indians), was introduced in 2003 and has
opportunities, lower incomes or difficulties in since evolved into a comprehensive framework for
accessing education, healthcare and social services in engaging the Indian diaspora. You will find that the
Uzbekistan. Indian Diaspora Engagement Policy is exemplary
Social integration and acceptance are really a because it has several important features.
problem everywhere. So social integration and

Fig. 3. Significant Features of India’s Diaspora Policy.
India's Diaspora Engagement Policy

•1. Recognition & Representation
•3. Investment & Economic linkages
•4. Skill & knowledge transfer
•2. Networking & Knowledge sharing
•5. Philantrophy & Social Growth
Firstly, India recognises the contributions of its inspiration from India's model for diaspora inclusion
diaspora by providing them with a platform for in formulating their own policies.
engagement and representation. The Pravasi Uzbekistan Can Draw Inspiration from India's
Bharatiya Divas is an annual event where the Indian Policy!
diaspora is invited to participate, share their We believe that Uzbekistan can take inspiration
experiences and contribute to discussions on issues of from India's diaspora inclusion policy, Pravasi
importance to India and its diaspora. Bharatiya Divas, and adapt its principles for the
Secondly, India promotes networking and inclusion of its own diaspora. However, to achieve
knowledge sharing through the establishment of this, it is first necessary to establish a dedicated
various platforms, including the Global Organisation platform for diaspora engagement. We think
for People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) and the Overseas Uzbekistan can create a platform similar to the Pravasi
Indian Facilitation Centre (OIFC). These platforms Bharatiya Divas where diaspora members are invited
foster linkages among the Indian diaspora, promote to participate in an annual event. This event can be a
business partnerships and provide information and forum for diaspora members to socialise, share
support to diaspora members. experiences and contribute to discussions on issues
Third, investment and economic linkages. India relevant to Uzbekistan and its diaspora. Then
actively promotes investment by its diaspora through networking and knowledge sharing are ways to take
initiatives such as the "Invest India" programme and charge of politics. We believe that Uzbekistan can
the “Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra” (Overseas Indian facilitate networking and knowledge sharing among
Centre). These initiatives facilitate diaspora its diaspora members by establishing diaspora
investment in India, promote entrepreneurship and associations, organising conferences, seminars and
provide support for business ventures. workshops, and using digital platforms to connect
Fourth, skill and knowledge transfer. India's diaspora communities worldwide. These initiatives
diaspora engagement policy focuses on harnessing the can foster collaboration, stimulate business
skills and expertise of the diaspora for India's partnerships and facilitate the exchange of ideas,
development. The "Know India" programme invites expertise and resources. Investment and economic ties
young diaspora members to learn about Indian culture are very good ways to implement policies in
and society, creating a sense of connection and Uzbekistan. This is because Uzbekistan can actively
promoting knowledge sharing. promote diaspora investment by taking initiatives that
Fifth, philanthropy and social development. provide information, support and incentives for
India’s diaspora engagement policy encourages diaspora members to invest in the country. This can
philanthropic contributions from diaspora memberss include establishing investment promotion agencies,
for social development projects in India. The "India offering tax incentives or preferential treatment for
Development Foundation for Overseas Indians" (IDF- diaspora investments, and organising investment
OI) provides a platform for diaspora philanthropy and forums to showcase opportunities in Uzbekistan.
facilitates partnerships between diaspora Transfer of skills and knowledge is one of the
organisations and Indian NGOs. necessary ways, in our opinion. Uzbekistan should
So, the Indian Diaspora Engagement Policy is develop programmes and initiatives to harness the
recognised for its comprehensive approach, skills, knowledge and experience of its diaspora
institutional support and proactive efforts to engage members. This includes inviting professionals from
the Indian diaspora. It has helped foster strong ties the diaspora to contribute to research projects,
between India and its diaspora, resulting in a collaborate with local universities and research
significant contribution to India's economic, social institutions, and participate in capacity-building
and cultural development. Other countries can draw

programmes to transfer knowledge and skills to the Finally, we believe that advocacy and
local population. representation are crucial for Uzbekistan. For
As Uzbekistan has multicultural citizens, the example, the country can engage with its diaspora
path of cultural exchange and preservation works community to leverage their support and influence to
there. Uzbekistan promotes cultural exchange and promote Uzbekistan's interests on the global stage.
preservation by organising cultural events, festivals This can include mobilising diaspora networks to
and exhibitions involving the diaspora community. If advocate for policy changes, gain international
this policy is adopted, cultural exchange and support and improve the country's image.
preservation can help preserve Uzbekistan's cultural All in all, implementing a diaspora engagement
heritage, strengthen cultural ties and promote tourism policy requires cooperation between government
by showcasing Uzbek traditions, art and cuisine. agencies, diaspora organisations and other actors.
The path of philanthropy and social development Regular communication, consultation and feedback
helps Uzbekistan. It is really useful to encourage mechanisms should be established to ensure that
diaspora members to contribute to social development policies effectively address the needs and aspirations
projects in the country. Establishing a diaspora of the Uzbek diaspora.
philanthropy platform or foundation can facilitate Importance of Diaspora Engagement Policy
diaspora contributions, foster partnerships with local After reviewing the above analyses, we have
non-governmental organisations and support come to the conclusion that a policy of diaspora
initiatives in areas such as education, healthcare and engagement for Uzbekistan is necessary for the
community development. following reasons.
Fig. 4. Benefits of India’s Diaspora policy for Uzbekistan
Benefits of Policy
1. Economic Growth
2. Knowlegde & Tech transfer
3.Tourism & Culture Exchange
4. Brain gain & Reverse migration
5. Strengthening Social Ties
First, economic development. Diaspora heritage by organising cultural events, festivals and
engagement can contribute to economic development exhibitions.
by promoting investment, entrepreneurship and trade. Fourth, advocacy and networking. The diaspora
Uzbekistan can use the skills, knowledge and community can play a crucial role in representing
resources of its diaspora community to attract Uzbekistan's interests on the global stage. Diaspora
investment, promote trade partnerships and encourage engagement policies can facilitate networking,
diaspora members to start businesses or contribute to building connections and using the influence of
existing businesses in the country. diaspora members to promote Uzbekistan's image,
Second, knowledge and technology transfer: gain international support and advocate for the
Diaspora members often have valuable expertise, country's interests in various fields such as politics,
experience and access to advanced technologies that economics and culture.
they can share with their home country. Through Fifth, brain gain and reverse migration.
engagement initiatives, Uzbekistan can use the Diaspora engagement can provide opportunities for
knowledge and skills of its diaspora community to skilled diaspora members to return to Uzbekistan and
foster innovation, improve research and development, bring their expertise, knowledge and networks with
and support technology transfer in key sectors. them. This brain gain can contribute to the
Third, tourism and cultural exchange. Diaspora development of key sectors such as education,
engagement can promote tourism and cultural healthcare, technology and innovation.
exchange. Members of the diaspora can act as Finally, strengthening social ties. Measures to
ambassadors, sharing their experiences and promoting engage the diaspora can foster a sense of belonging
Uzbekistan as a tourist destination. They can also help and strengthen social ties between the diaspora and
preserve and promote Uzbek culture, traditions and Uzbekistan. This can lead to increased cultural
exchanges, philanthropic activities and cooperation

on social development projects such as education, promoting cultural exchange and preservation can
health care and community development. have application in the Uzbek context. By
To effectively harness the potential benefits of implementing a diaspora engagement policy along the
diaspora engagement, Uzbekistan can establish lines of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Uzbekistan can
dedicated institutions, programmes and platforms to harness the potential of its diaspora community to
facilitate communication, cooperation and resource contribute to the country's economic development,
mobilisation with its diaspora community. In addition, technological advancement, cultural preservation and
dialogue and consultation with members of the advocacy. It can help strengthen ties between
diaspora to understand their needs, aspirations and Uzbekistan and its diaspora, promote
challenges is critical to the successful implementation entrepreneurship and investment, facilitate knowledge
of diaspora engagement policies. transfer and enhance cultural exchange. However, it is
important that Uzbekistan tailors any diaspora
CONCLUSION engagement policy to its specific context and takes
To conclude, the Indian policy on engaging the into account the unique characteristics and needs of its
diaspora, known as "Pravasi Bharatiya Divas'," can diaspora communities. This can be achieved through
serve as a useful reference for Uzbekistan. The continuous dialogue, consultations and cooperation
policy's focus on recognising the contributions of the with the diaspora, as well as through the establishment
diaspora, promoting investment and economic ties, of specific institutions and platforms that facilitate
facilitating networking and knowledge sharing, and effective diaspora engagement and support.
References:
1. Acharya, D. (2020). India's Diaspora Uzbekistan: A Pilot Study. Retrieved from

Engagement Policy: A Case Study of Pravasi https://publications.iom.int/system/files/pdf/dia
Bharatiya Divas. Journal of Contemporary India spora_mapping_in_uzbekistan.pdf
Studies, 10(1), 1-19. 10. (2020). International Organization for
2. Baxi, P. (2019). The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Migration (IOM). Diaspora Engagement for
Engaging the Indian Diaspora for Nation Development: A Handbook for Practitioners and
Building. Journal of International Migration Policymakers. IOM Publishing.
and Integration, 20(2), 433-449. 11. Levitt, P., & Lamba-Nieves, D. (Eds.). (2011).
3. Cohen, R. (2008). Global Diasporas: An The Transnational Studies Reader: Intersections
Introduction. Routledge. and Innovations. Routledge.
4. Collyer, M. (Ed.). (2014). Emigration Nations: 12. (2012). Migration Policy Institute (MPI).
Policies and Ideologies of Emigrant Migrants from Uzbekistan: Current Situation
Engagement. Palgrave Macmillan. and Prospects for Integration in the Russian
5. Faist, T. (2000). The Volume and Dynamics of Federation. Retrieved from
International Migration and Transnational https://www.migrationpolicy.org/research/migr
Social Spaces. Oxford University Press. ants-uzbekistan-current-situation-and-
6. Gamlen, A., Cummings, M., & Vaaler, P. (Eds.). prospects-integration-russian-federation
(2019). The Migration-Development Nexus. 13. (2021). Ministry of External Affairs,
Edward Elgar Publishing. Government of India. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
7. Ghosh, R. (2016). Engagement of Indian Retrieved from
Diaspora: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD). https://www.mea.gov.in/diaspora-
Journal of Economic & Social Development, engagement.htm
12(1), 25-39. 14. Mohapatra, A. K. (2017). Indian Diaspora Policy
8. (2020). International Labour Organization and Its Implications: A Study of Pravasi
(ILO). Labour Migration and Labour Market Bharatiya Divas. International Journal of
Outcomes in Uzbekistan. Retrieved from Multidisciplinary Research and Modern
https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/--- Education, 3(1), 225-232.
ed_protect/---protrav/--- 15. (2017). OECD. Engaging Diasporas: How
migrant/documents/publication/wcms_745045. Governments and Development Agencies Can
pdf Support Diaspora Engagement. OECD
9. (2017). International Organization for Publishing.
Migration (IOM). Diaspora Mapping in

16. (2020). World Bank. Diaspora for Development home/library/crisis_prevention_and_recovery/

in Uzbekistan: Opportunities and Challenges. migration-profile-of-the-republic-of-
Retrieved from uzbekistan.html
https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/1 18. Vertovec, S. (Ed.). (2009). Transnationalism.
0986/34324 Routledge.
17. (2016). United Nations Development 19. Vertovec, S., & Cohen, R. (Eds.). (2002).
Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan. Migration Conceiving Cosmopolitanism: Theory, Context,
Profile of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Retrieved and Practice. Oxford University Press.
from
https://www.uz.undp.org/content/uzbekistan/en/


Diaspora Maqola Published

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Diaspora Maqola Published

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

ISRA (India) = 6.317 SIS (USA) = 0.912 ICV (Poland) = 6.

Year: 2023 Issue: 05 Volume: 121

Published: 29.05.2023 http://T-Science.org

REVIEW: HOW SUITABLE DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT POLICY FOR

Introduction communities to drive sustainable development and

Philadelphia, USA 585

Fig. 1. Diasporas in Uzbekistan

Tajik & Diasporas Korean

Fig. 2. Distribution of Diaspora communities

Philadelphia, USA 586

Philadelphia, USA 587

Fig. 3. Significant Features of India’s Diaspora Policy.

India's Diaspora Engagement Policy

Philadelphia, USA 588

Fig. 4. Benefits of India’s Diaspora policy for Uzbekistan

Philadelphia, USA 589

1. Acharya, D. (2020). India's Diaspora Uzbekistan: A Pilot Study. Retrieved from

Philadelphia, USA 590

16. (2020). World Bank. Diaspora for Development home/library/crisis_prevention_and_recovery/

Philadelphia, USA 591

Philadelphia, USA 592

You might also like