Abstract

The study challenges the accustomed views of the migration process, calling for the revision of our understanding of what it means to ‘emigrate’, dispelling several myths and providing answers to many questions important in the context of the diaspora policy. It invites a change in the policy focus from getting emigrants to return home (a very difficult task considering the wage differences) to the possibilities of potential co-operation between those living in Latvia and abroad. At the same time, the study warns of the commodification of emigrants if their economic contribution to Latvia is emphasized too much. One should not forget that any Latvian national is a part of our nation, regardless of age, ethnicity, education or demographic pro le. It is crucial to change the established view that the Latvian government does not need and does not care about people living abroad, and to help them to preserve ties with Latvia and their national identity, thus making it easier for emigrants and their children to return and integrate into the Latvian society, if they decide to do so.