Return reimagined: Diaspora interactions with protracted internal displacement in post-war Sri Lanka

Abstract

This paper aims to study transnational diasporic interactions with the internal return of protracted displaces, using two cases from directly war-affected regions of Sri Lanka. This paper contributes to the conceptualization of return by analyzing the complexities arising through diaspora engagement in post-war return and recovery of internally displaced people. Split returns—of near and far diasporas in the form of short-term, temporary family visits—shape protracted returns in post-war situations. Diaspora’s collective memory that results in diaspora transnationalism requires an engagement in rights-based issues such as access to and ownership of land in which the diasporas directly or indirectly intervene.