The Role of Diasporas in Conflict Perpetuation or Resolution

Abstract: Using data from studies of the Armenian-American and Jewish-American diasporic involvement in conflicts over Nagorno-Karabakh and the West Bank and Gaza, a hypothesis can be developed about the role diasporas play as a distinct third level between interstate and domestic peacemaking in these regions. There are several possible factors that could determine the nature and direction of diasporic involvement in homeland conflicts. By examining the phenomenon of diasporic activism in the homeland state, the host state, and at the international level, further research directions for those interested in integrating the study of ethnic conflict and national identity more completely into the study of international relations become apparent.