Countries that are either at war or living on the edge are increasingly the focus of rising diaspora concern these days. The manifestation of a heightened involvement with the homeland often comes through vigils and demonstrations, particularly in the big western cities.
While immigrants and exiles are usually very engaged and vocal, it is not always clear that their mobilisation can have impact. The images of ancient flags and massed gatherings garner attention. Yet, to confuse that with momentum for change is an easy mistake to make.
The communities involved are responding to a powerful impulse to rally around their loyalties to the country they have left behind. These actions, in turn, drive a particular narrative in the media, but aren’t necessarily making an impact on the turmoil back home.
From the vantage p
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