Cybersecdn- The year 2024 is set to be a historic election year, with over 70 countries and more than four billion people participating in elections. This global electoral engagement brings the role of diaspora communities into focus, as they play a crucial part in these elections.
One of the key observations is that the right to vote is a significant demand of diaspora populations. Over the years, there has been a significant increase in the number of countries that have enfranchised citizens living abroad. In 1980, only 21 countries allowed citizens abroad to vote, but by 2020, this number had grown to 141 countries, representing nearly three-quarters of all countries worldwide.
Diaspora voting practices vary from one country to another. In some countries like India and Taiwan, voters are required to physically return to their home country to cast their votes. In contrast, in the United States, overseas voting is considered “hands-off,” with limited outreach to diaspora communities, leading individuals to find out on their own how to register.
The impact of diaspora voting not only depends on the percentage of a country’s population living abroad but also on whether these overseas voters actively exercise their right to vote. However, challenges arise from the spread of misinformation through social media and the use of AI, which can affect elections as significantly as the votes themselves.
Misinformation originating from abroad can influence election outcomes by muddying the distinction between true and false information. AI, when weaponized to spread fake news, can exacerbate these issues. It is noteworthy that many of the companies and policies behind AI and social media platforms are based in the United States, impacting diaspora communities around the world.
This rise in fake news has coincided with a global increase in authoritarianism and a crisis of legitimacy in the media. Initiatives to combat fake news may raise concerns about the concentration of power.
The political power of diaspora communities extends beyond their voting influence. It necessitates a reevaluation of the relationship between the state, technology, and the global public. These observations are particularly relevant to major elections in various countries, such as India, Mexico, and Taiwan.
In India, the upcoming election is significant, with about 900 million individuals registered to vote. The election has taken on a presidential character, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the Hindu nationalist BJP party with a high approval rating. The Indian diaspora’s interests in technology development are prominent due to Modi’s initiatives in this area.
In Mexico, the 2024 elections will determine the country’s political direction. The frontrunner, Claudia Sheinbaum, is leading in polls with strong support. However, despite the large Mexican diaspora, only a small number are registered to vote abroad, posing a challenge to increasing their participation.
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Taiwan’s recent elections have significant implications, as voters have aligned themselves with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), advocating for Taiwan’s de facto independence. However, voting for diaspora members remains challenging due to restrictions and registration requirements.
The 2024 elections are poised to have a substantial impact on diaspora communities worldwide. The right to vote and the challenges associated with it, including misinformation and AI-driven fake news, are crucial factors in these elections. Diaspora communities play a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes of these elections, making it imperative to address their concerns and enhance their participation.
