La Diaspora Formation and the Capitalization of Postexilic Diaspora Networks in the Southern Cone

Abstract

This article analyzes post-exilic policies of connection with the national diasporas adopted in the region, including the 'diasporas of knowledge', i.e. the networks of scientists, academics, professionals and businessmen living outside the national territory. Although the countries of the Southern Cone used and abused exile as a mechanism of institutionalized exclusion, they had modeled their image typically as countries of immigration. Having thousands of their own citizens banished and dispersed in many host countries - because of the repressive policies of the dictatorial governments of the second half of the 20th century - created new challenges for the states of the region. During the democratic transitions, at different rates and with varying resistance, partial policies had been adopted to facilitate reintegration. However, with the persisting residence of nationals abroad, the question arose whether states and civil societies would find ways to reaffirm their connection with those residing in the diasporas. This work suggests that the prolonged and massive exile of citizens in the Southern Cone disarticulated the old vision of the nation as converging with the national territory, while generating notions of networking with compatriots residing abroad, and particularly with academics, professionals and entrepreneurs, as well as contemplating granting the vote to nationals abroad.