The Role of Jammu and Kashmir Diaspora in Citizens' Diplomacy and International Relations
By Sardar Aftab Khan
Introduction
The conflict surrounding the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has been a long-standing issue in South Asia, with political, social, and economic implications for the people living in the region. In this background, the Jammu and Kashmir diaspora from both sides of the ceasefire line continues to play a significant role in community development, peacebuilding, and conflict transformation in the region through citizen diplomacy and international relations, advocating for the rights and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
This briefing paper aims to explore the various
ways in which the diaspora contributes to the socio-economic progress and
peaceful coexistence in Jammu and Kashmir. By leveraging their resources,
networks, and expertise, diaspora members actively engage in initiatives that
promote community development, foster peacebuilding efforts, and contribute to
conflict transformation by shaping international perspectives, fostering
dialogue, and seeking peaceful resolutions to the ongoing conflict.
Background
J&K is an internationally recognised disputed territory by the United Nations. Since 24th January 1949, the United Nations Military Observers Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has been supervising the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. It is in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, claimed by India and Pakistan, with significant geopolitical interest from China and the international community. Besides a small portion of J&K State (Aksai Chin) that China has continued to occupy since the early 1960s, the region is currently divided, with India administering most of the area (referred to as Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh) and Pakistan controlling a smaller part (referred to as Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan). The dispute between India, Pakistan and the people of J&K has resulted in decades of conflict, multiple wars, and human rights concerns. The J&K diaspora refers to individuals of Kashmiri origin who have migrated or settled outside the region yet maintain a solid connection to their homeland and actively engage in activities that promote the cause of exercising the right to self-determination as envisaged and recognised in various United Nations Security Council’s resolutions concerning J&K.
Jammu and Kashmir Diaspora Roles and Contributions
1. Community Development and Empowering Civil Society
The J&K diaspora actively participates in community development initiatives and empowers civil society organizations within the region. Through their financial contributions, expertise, and partnerships with local organizations, they support projects that focus on education, healthcare, infrastructure development, human rights, social justice, and economic empowerment. These initiatives aim to improve the quality of life for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, strengthen social cohesion, and address the socio-economic disparities that often exacerbate conflict dynamics. By strengthening the capacity of community development and civil society actors, the diaspora enhances their ability to engage in sustainable development and peacebuilding activities, take climate action, promote dialogue, and advocate for the rights and aspirations of the local population.
2. Diaspora and Citizen Diplomacy
The J&K diaspora consists of individuals of Kashmiri origin residing in various countries, including the United Kingdom, EU member states, the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Gulf countries. As members of the diaspora, they have a unique position to engage in citizen diplomacy, which refers to the role of non-governmental actors in promoting international understanding and cooperation. The J&K diaspora's involvement in citizen diplomacy can create positive change and influence international perceptions and policies concerning the conflict.
a) Promoting Awareness and Advocacy
One of the primary roles of the Jammu and Kashmir diaspora is to raise awareness about the historical and current situation in the region. Through their presence in various parts of the world, diaspora members engage in various advocacy efforts, including organizing conferences, seminars, and demonstrations to draw attention to the plight of the people of J&K. They leverage their networks, social media platforms, and interactions with policymakers, media outlets, and civil society organizations to highlight human rights violations, humanitarian concerns, and the need for a just and peaceful resolution.
b) Shaping International Perspectives
The J&K diaspora plays a crucial role in shaping international perspectives on the conflict. In the presence of draconian laws that restricts the right to freedom of expression and information in Indian-administered J&K, an independent perspective about Kashmiri aspirations/opinions is not readily available; hence, the J&K diaspora strives to present a balanced narrative, challenging misconceptions and providing insights into the aspirations and grievances of the people of J&K. Through engagement with policymakers, academics, and media outlets, they can influence the discourse on the issue, emphasizing the importance of self-determination, human rights, and international law.
c) Building Networks and Coalitions for Cultural Exchange and Reconciliation
Diaspora communities often form networks and coalitions with other marginalized groups, human rights organizations, and international peace initiatives to strengthen their cause. By collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations, they amplify their voices, share experiences, and exchange knowledge on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and human rights advocacy. These collaborations enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the diaspora's efforts to garner international support for the people of J&K. Furthermore, diaspora members play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of J&K. Through cultural exchange programs, art exhibitions, music festivals, and literature, they contribute to fostering understanding, appreciation, and respect for the diverse identities and histories within the region. These initiatives create platforms for cultural expression, dialogue, and reconciliation, encouraging a sense of shared heritage and promoting peace and harmony.
d) Track II Diplomacy and Dialogue Initiatives
The J&K diaspora engages in citizen diplomacy efforts through various Track II dialogues and peace initiatives. They serve as a valuable resource for promoting dialogue and mediation in J&K. Their neutral position, coupled with their understanding of the local context and international perspectives, enables them to facilitate informal discussions and dialogues between stakeholders from India, Pakistan, and J&K to explore alternative solutions, build mutual trust, and promote confidence-building measures. These initiatives provide platforms for open and honest conversations, fostering a conducive environment for potential resolutions. By utilizing their networks and experiences, diaspora members can contribute to the promotion of dialogue and the search for sustainable solutions.
The J&K diaspora residing in Europe and America are rightly placed to pursue Kashmiri’s cause through Track-II Diplomacy and Dialogue Initiatives. They have the capacity and opportunities to engage their governments in the U.K., EU, North America, and other key players to build sustainable mechanisms for conflict transformation in J&K.
e) Humanitarian Assistance and Development
The diaspora also plays a significant role in providing humanitarian assistance and supporting development projects in J&K. Through fundraising campaigns, donations, and collaborations with NGOs, they contribute to addressing the immediate needs of the people affected by the conflict. Additionally, they support initiatives that promote education, healthcare, and economic development, aiming to improve the lives of the local population. However, as a part of the J&K diaspora, I recommend that while the affected region as a whole must be taken care of, the focus of the support in the fields of education and healthcare must be shifted to the neglected/underdeveloped areas of J&K. Such initiatives need a comprehensive strategy so that the support reaches the right people.
f) Public Policy Advocacy and Awareness
The J&K diaspora engages in public policy advocacy and awareness campaigns to highlight the issues faced by the diaspora in their current places of abode and the people of their place of origin and heritage: Jammu and Kashmir. They can utilize their networks, social media platforms, and interactions with the international community and policymakers to raise awareness about human rights violations, humanitarian concerns, and the need for a peaceful resolution. By amplifying the voices of the affected communities, the diaspora contributes to community integration and equitable access to public services and decision-making forums. They will also shape international perspectives and garner support for peacebuilding efforts in J&K.
3. Challenges and Opportunities
a. Diverse Perspectives: The J&K diaspora consists of individuals with diverse opinions, reflecting the complexity of the conflict itself. Managing this diversity and fostering unity around common goals can be a challenge.
b. Limited Resources: Despite their commitment, the J&K diaspora often faces resource constraints. Mobilizing financial and logistical support for their initiatives requires concerted efforts and collaboration with international organizations, governments, and philanthropic foundations.
c. Engaging with Stakeholders: The J&K diaspora must proactively engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and academics, to build alliances, gain credibility, and garner support for their cause.
d. Utilizing Digital Platforms: In the era of digital communication, the J&K diaspora can leverage social media, online campaigns, and virtual forums to amplify their voices, connect with a broader audience, and foster dialogue and understanding.
Conclusion
The J&K diaspora plays a vital role in community development, peacebuilding, and conflict transformation through citizen diplomacy and international relations, advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict on behalf of the people of the disputed territory. Their involvement can raise awareness, influence policy, foster dialogue, and support humanitarian initiatives. To maximize their impact, the diaspora must collaborate, overcome challenges, utilize available resources, and engage with various stakeholders. Through their financial contributions, expertise, cultural initiatives, and advocacy efforts, they can actively contribute to building resilient communities, fostering dialogue, and promoting reconciliation. Recognizing and supporting the diaspora's involvement is essential for harnessing their potential and working toward sustainable peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir.
About the author: Sardar Aftab Khan is a strategic thinker, public policy advocate and community development professional. He is the Executive Director of the Kashmir Development Foundation (KDF) and can be reached at kdfajk@gmail.com Dated: 1st July 2023
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