How and Why Do Diaspora Give? A Conceptual Model to Understanding Diaspora Philanthropy

Abstract

This article intends to contribute to further research on cross-border phenomenon in nonprofit and philanthropic studies by developing a conceptual model for diaspora philanthropy, the transfer of resources such as money, time, labor, and knowledge to countries of origin for the public good. The interdisciplinary opportunities for the topic of diaspora philanthropy can be considered a strength, but at times, they result in disparate studies and minimal consideration for larger questions and theory development. In this article, we hope to aggregate relevant research in order to remedy some of these challenges. An interdisciplinary approach allows us to chart macro, meso, and micro theories and empirical work that help to explain diaspora philanthropy. We ask: What are the (global) drivers that influence diaspora philanthropy (macro level)? What are the channels that allow for, or challenge, diaspora philanthropy (meso level)? And what are the individual motives of diaspora philanthropists (micro level)?