Diasporic Engagement with South Asian Politics

In an era of an unprecedented rise in populism, democracies all around the world are in flux. The rise of ethno-nationalism and governance based on majoritarian politics has serious implications for the future of state institutions and social inclusion. Even more concerning is the romance between populist governments through arm sales, police training, and information exchanges. As civilians and members of the South Asian diaspora, what is our responsibility in learning about and questioning the relationships between our government and South Asian governments? What role do diasporic communities play in the rise and perpetuation of populism in South Asia? Why do South Asian populist leaders have a strong support base in diasporic communities? What parallels should we be drawing? What are future steps? Join us in learning more at this “Charcha”- a concept developed and practiced by the School for Democracy in Rajasthan, India.

Aruna Roy, a Meera and Vikram Gandhi Fellow at Brown, is one of India’s most prominent socio-political activists. She is a founder member of Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) and President of the National Federation of Indian Women along with various movements and campaigns.