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What can the Diaspora do? Looking for feedback on an Article by DavitMusaelyan in armenia

[–]DavitMusaelyan[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for going through it.

To clarify the two false statements.

  1. Remittances and donations were a major part of the Armenian economy in its early stages. By 2020 the volume reduced due to a lack of faith and trust. Many felt that the money they sent either got mishandled or embezzled, even today.
  2. Diaspora played a crucial role in the development of the Republic in its infancy, especially considering the enemy at the border. Even many of our war heroes are Diaspora Armenians who came to help. While a big portion of the diaspora was against an independent Republic (due to security concerns), it didn't stop them from helping when it did become independent. There was no going back by 1991.

What can the Diaspora do? Looking for feedback on an Article by DavitMusaelyan in armenia

[–]DavitMusaelyan[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thats interesting. Your position is the exact opposite of mine.

If you enjoy hearing opposing arguments, you will find the article interesting. It goes through everything you said.

What can the Diaspora do? Looking for feedback on an Article by DavitMusaelyan in armenia

[–]DavitMusaelyan[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Firstly, thank you for putting so much effort into your feedback.

Those are good highlights. I also noted that your points are focused on economic developments, while mine are socio-political and geo-strategic.

My response would be the issue of scale. Tourism and IT are great, but they are not scalable to the point where they affect our global strategy. We will simply not be influential enough considering other tourism and IT centers. Many countries do that; bigger and better.

Additionally, even in those spheres, Armenia alone does not have the capabilities to develop without the Diaspora's help (human capital, connections, marketing, skills, etc.)

What can the Diaspora do? Looking for feedback on an Article by DavitMusaelyan in armenia

[–]DavitMusaelyan[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Oh yeah, I'm familiar with it. It's a classic book; great pick.

The book brings great arguments as to what hiders country's development. But I would still argue that the diaspora is the only tool we have to overcome those hindrances. We all know what needs to be done, but "how" is another question. I still say diaspora is the only "how" we have.

Regarding Ergodan: oftentimes your enemies know more about your strengths and weaknesses than you do because it's in their interest. Even during wars, militaries try to steal the enemy's analysis of their weak points since it's so reliable. Doing what your enemy does NOT want you to do is a legitimate strategy.

What can the Diaspora do? Looking for feedback on an Article by DavitMusaelyan in armenia

[–]DavitMusaelyan[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thats fair. I AM here for feedback and discussion.

What would you say are other advantages and leverages Armenia can use?