Language diversity: Multi-ethnic migrant and diaspora resources for international business and entrepreneurship

Maria Elo, Tanvi Kothari, Maria Ivanova-Gongne

Publikation: Kapitel i bog/rapport/konference-proceedingKapitel i bogForskningpeer review

Abstract

Goals and Objectives of the Research – This chapter aims to increase our understanding on how the language diversity of multiethnic Central Asian countries and their diasporas constitutes a talent and resource-base for local and global businesses. We revisit the role of language capabilities for boundary-spanning and the particular challenges and opportunities related to linguistically diverse contexts among diaspora members and their homeland.
Methodology – This chapter provides and overview of prior research and uses qualitative interviews and ethnographic data.
Results/Findings – The findings indicate that language diversity is an important multi-layered resource and a socio-economic link that allows culturally distant markets to interact and bridges the gaps across geographic boundaries. Individuals with multiple languages and migrant ties may develop alternative ways of communicating for business, such as translanguaging and cultural communication mode-shifting.
Novelty/Originality/Value – The administrative “imperial” languages are often perceived as the oppressor’s instrument, however, there is another side of this that presents it as a resource for economic relations and international business development existing parallel to the indigenous language heritage. We introduce a concept on diaspora ‘language portfolio’ that is a toolbox of communication assets that allows to connect and operate interculturally and inter-regionally.
Theoretical or Practical Implications – We deviate from the English language dominance of the international business literature and address how another geographic and linguistic context such as the Russophone business provides a contextual lens to understand how ‘language capacity’ of diaspora members is an asset to both, their home and host nations. We illustrate how both the Russian language and the regional and minority languages offer a great potential for entrepreneurial and trade relations. By introducing a Framework of Diaspora ‘Language Portfolio” this study underlines that minorities and diasporas are key boundary spanners and connectors in new markets and enhance the development of trade in the region.
OriginalsprogEngelsk
TitelDiversity in action : managing diverse talent in global economies
RedaktørerMarina Latukha
ForlagEmerald Group Publishing
Publikationsdatosep. 2022
Sider125-150
ISBN (Trykt)978-1-80117-227-1
ISBN (Elektronisk)978-1-80117-226-4
DOI
StatusUdgivet - sep. 2022

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