Diaspora engagement in tourism crisis recovery: the case of Indonesia

Abstract

Purpose Diasporas represent a unique yet often overlooked stakeholder in tourism crisis management. Their strong bonds with their homeland often result in continued engagement with an extended community, which is valuable to their homeland during unsettling times. This study aims to examine the engagement of the Indonesian diaspora in the USA to revive tourism in Indonesia during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and their motivation behind such efforts. Design/methodology/approach This study is rooted in a social constructivism paradigm and uses a qualitative approach. Four focus groups (n = 25) and ten individual interviews with the Indonesian diaspora in the USA were conducted. Thematic analysis was used to identify major themes. Findings The findings indicate that diaspora engagement stemmed from two broad categories: social activism, such as information liaison, skills and knowledge transfer, and economic activism, including philanthropic activities, investment and remittance and return-home travel. Both altruistic and social exchange motives drive their continuous engagement. The findings exemplify “diaspora diplomacy” that can be harnessed as social capital for homeland tourism recovery post-crisis. Originality/value This study provides an in-depth analysis of diaspora engagement in destination recovery. This study highlights the importance of diasporas as social capital for destinations and offers insights into tourism crisis management by incorporating this overlooked stakeholder group.