Diaspora Humanitarianism - Transnational Ways of Working

The DEMAC research report outlines the basic features of formalized collective interventions by Sierra Leonean, Somali and Syrian diaspora-based relief organisations and initiatives based in the UK, Denmark and Germany, respectively, by elucidating their responses to the humanitarian crises in their countries of origin/heritage and neighbouring countries.

Based on interviews conducted in Denmark, Germany, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, Somalia (Somaliland), Turkey, and the UK, desk-based study, cross-referencing surveys, and mappings, the report identifies the instruments and explains the ways through which diaspora humanitarians operate to provide relief to affected people in need. Informative yet largely explorative in nature, the report elicits potential areas of increased and more effective cooperation and coordination between diaspora organisations and initiatives engaged in humanitarian action and ‘traditional’ actors of the international humanitarian system.