Investigating the Confluence of Diaspora, Migration, and Information Technologies.

The collection could potentially have an impact in several fields, and our hope is that some of the early investigations collected here may become classics in the years to come when the use of ICTs in migration research is likely to become standard procedure.

With respect to the above statement, the article "Migration and Diaspora in the Age of Information and Communication Technologies" by Pedro J. Oiarzabal and Ulf-Dietrich Reips sheds light on the influence of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on migration and diasporic communities. In this light, there is a need to understand the key insights presented in the article, highlighting its interdisciplinary approach and the significance of studying ICTs in the context of migration.

Understanding the Impact of ICTs on Migration

The personal computer, the cell phone, and access to the Internet have become quotidian resources among migrants who use them to develop, maintain and recreate informal and formal transnational networks in both the physical and the digital worlds, while reinforcing and shaping their sense of individual and collective identity.

The authors emphasize the under-researched nature of studying ICT usage by migrants in Europe. They acknowledge the undeniable role of technology in facilitating migration, connecting people across the globe, and fostering the growth of diaspora communities. By examining the use of personal computers, cell phones, and the internet, the article highlights how these resources have become vital tools for migrants, shaping their sense of identity and enabling the formation of transnational networks.

ICTs have not only transformed migration but also impacted research methodologies in the social and behavioral sciences. The article discusses how the internet has facilitated access to research participants, particularly migrants, and provided a platform for anonymous communication, crucial for individuals with legal concerns. It recognizes the growing interest in exploring the social and psychological aspects of the internet and media consumption within diaspora populations.

The Collection of Articles

The article presents a collection of eight original articles authored by leading experts from diverse disciplines, including Ethnic Studies, Internet Science, Mass Media Studies, Political Science, Social Psychology, and Sociology. These articles explore various aspects of ICT usage by migrants and diasporas, addressing topics such as transnational social structures, political activism, research methodologies, the impact on immigrant families and transnational networks, media consumption, and the role of social networking sites.

Synergistic Insights and Diverse Perspectives

The authors emphasize the complementarity of the articles, recognizing that while their scholarly findings may differ, they enrich the overall understanding of the topic. Each article contributes unique insights, such as exploring transnational habitus, political participation, innovative research methodologies, therapy with immigrant families, transnational families, media consumption patterns, and the effects of online diaspora association groups on identity and community formation.

Overall, "Migration and Diaspora in the Age of Information and Communication Technologies" provides a comprehensive overview of the influence of ICTs on migration and diasporic communities. By offering multidisciplinary perspectives and introducing a collection of insightful articles, this article serves as a valuable resource for researchers and readers interested in understanding the evolving landscape of migration and its relationship with ICTs. While the absence of a critical evaluation of the individual articles is a potential limitation, the article successfully conveys the significance of studying the use and impact of ICTs within the context of migration.