Policy dialogue is the way forward

Since the outbreak of civil war in Somalia in 1991, Somali refugees have settled all over the world, including Sweden. Somalis are well known for their transnational engagement in their erstwhile homeland, providing a lifeline in times of crisis and contributing to long-term processes of change. Sweden has become a significant hub for Somali diaspora engagement, with a rich and diverse civil society engagement.

In an OpenDemocracy blog post, senior researcher Nauja Kleist outlines Somali-Swedish diaspora engagement in development and relief in the Somali region and considers possible ways forward for policy development and partnerships. She recommends enhanced flexibility vis-à-vis the distinction between reconstruction activities and service delivery and faster and simpler administrative procedures. Another recommendation is intensifying dialogue between policymakers and diaspora groups to enhance partnerships and mutual understanding. Many diaspora actors have a desire for stronger inclusion in policy processes that concern the Somali region and diaspora engagement. Importantly, such a collaboration offers opportunities for development agencies and diaspora actors alike – also in other contexts than the Swedish-Somali case.