Gurkha Diaspora Contribution In Nepal-UK Diplomatic Relationship

Abstract

The twentieth century experiences the tremendous wave of globalization where the free flow of trade, ideas, innovation and most importantly people is the major ongoing phenomenon which is why the roles of the domestic actors are moreover taken over by the transnational actors. This is why the importance of diaspora has grown over time. Diaspora, forming a complex overseas network with larger effects as sources of facilitators of trade and investment, purveyors of remittances and as brain banks has a substantial role in the international arena. The effects of international migration and diaspora of a country have abroad scope of study as it offers larger sphere of influence in the economical, political and socio- cultural aspects of both host and home countries. Many countries have realized and acknowledged the vitality of diaspora and made efficient policies in order to mobilize them as soft power of their respective countries. However, Nepal still lags behind in empowering and recognizing this powerful instrument of soft power. Hence, the research aims to shed lights on the importance of Nepalese diaspora particularly on the British Gurkhas diaspora residing in the United Kingdom. British Gurkhas are one of the pioneers to immigrate to foreign lands since 18th century. They possess very peculiar characteristics of diaspora which have their effects on the economical, political and socio-cultural scenario. Their activities and achievements are some of the areas that the study looks upon and refer to while examining their roles in the policies of both Nepal and the UK.