The African Diaspora Policy Centre (ADPC) enables African Diaspora in Europe to
connect more closely with the continent as a collective force. The thematic areas are Peacebuilding, Better Governance, Migration & Development and Brain Gain
From Philanthropy to Transnational Peacebuilding: the African Diaspora Women’s Experience
March 2009
Illustration: Le joueur de balafon Diola by Diop
Diasporas from conflict regions and fragile states are increasingly involved in the reconstruction of their homelands. Although both African men and women in the diaspora are contributing to peace and reconciliation processes in their homelands, women tend to be more active in this terrain. This is primarily because women and children are far more likely to have first-hand experience with the direct effects of conflict. The psychological and emotional connection that diaspora women share with victims of conflict provides them with an innate drive to take action towards conflict resolution and reconciliation. In recent years, these efforts have undergone a drastic transformation. What began as an emotional reaction to conflict in the homeland has now evolved into a systematic and structured approach to conflict resolution, taking a more holistic approach, and addressing the economic and political factors behind conflict in the homeland.
This factsheet explores the evolutionary process that has seen diaspora women move from implementing small-scale projects to becoming peacebuilding activists both in the homeland and in the host country. In particular, it outlines strategies employed by diaspora women to contribute to the restoration of peace in the homeland.
Download PDF (241 kB)
Diasporas from conflict regions and fragile states are increasingly involved in the reconstruction of their homelands. Although both African men and women in the diaspora are contributing to peace and reconciliation processes in their homelands, women tend to be more active in this terrain. This is primarily because women and children are far more likely to have first-hand experience with the direct effects of conflict. The psychological and emotional connection that diaspora women share with victims of conflict provides them with an innate drive to take action towards conflict resolution and reconciliation. In recent years, these efforts have undergone a drastic transformation. What began as an emotional reaction to conflict in the homeland has now evolved into a systematic and structured approach to conflict resolution, taking a more holistic approach, and addressing the economic and political factors behind conflict in the homeland.
This factsheet explores the evolutionary process that has seen diaspora women move from implementing small-scale projects to becoming peacebuilding activists both in the homeland and in the host country. In particular, it outlines strategies employed by diaspora women to contribute to the restoration of peace in the homeland.
Download PDF (241 kB)