Diaspora in anticipatory action

Local early warning systems

Before displacement occurs, local and diaspora networks often have signs that a conflict, drought, famine or other crisis is forthcoming. This is thanks to local intelligence networks, traditional systems of understanding the environment and familiarity with historical events and patterns. Diaspora and local actors receive and communicate real-time updates through family, faith-based and online networks, which allows them to quickly mobilise resources and respond.

These localised and diasporic forms of knowledge and communication constitute an early warning system that is invaluable to anticipatory action (AA): the process of preparing for and mitigating forecasted risks based on early warning systems, climate forecasting, and political analysis. Anticipatory action can reduce the impact of a crisis before it happens.

Diaspora information networks

When disasters happen, international humanitarian organisations arrive with the mandate to help. But this aid usually comes after a significant wait. Institutionally recognised international organisations abide by protocols and processes that cause delays at every step. But before international humanitarians even hear about a disaster, locally-led organisations are already sharing information, resources and remittances.

Between alert and action

So why are local early warning systems not formally recognised?

• Limited access to AA networks -- Structural barriers prevent smaller organizations from being integrated into larger AA systems.
• Lack of forecasting tools -- Financial limitations and more urgent priorities can divert funding from forecasting technology.
• Strict funding -- AA is not always a budgetary priority, particularly when it is not widely understood.

This disconnect between diaspora networks and formal forecasting can lead to delays, duplication or gaps in the response.

Bridging the gap

Diaspora actors and communities have unique qualities that make them strong collaborators in AA: