Identity preservation, reassimilation, and the tendency to maintain ties to the country of origin depend on many factors and may change over time. Below are these factors, ranked by their impact (statistics, social research, focus groups, interviews), as well as the opinions of experts on their changes:
- *Cultural identity*:
– *Influence:* Very high = 0.25
– *Consideration:* People who actively support their cultural identity (language, traditions, religion) usually tend to maintain ties to their country of origin and are more likely to return or help. Over time, especially in the second or third generation, cultural identity may weaken, but this largely depends on the efforts of the family and community. - *Education and professional development*:
– *Influence:* High= 0.2
– *Consideration:* Educational achievements can both strengthen the connection with the country of origin due to the desire to apply the acquired knowledge at home, and weaken it due to integration into the professional environment of the country of residence. Young people who are educated abroad may stay there for career development, but may eventually return to invest or help. - *Social connections and community*:
– *Influence:* High=0.2
– *Consideration:* Close social ties in the diaspora can support cultural identity and connection to the country of origin. However, over time, integration into the local community and making new connections can reduce this tendency. - *Economic opportunities*:
– *Influence:* High=0.15
– *Consideration:* Economic opportunities in the country of residence may delay repatriation, but the opportunity for investment or assistance may remain high, especially if the country of origin offers favorable conditions for this. - *Political and social conditions in the country of origin*:
– *Influence:* High=0.1
– *Consideration:* Stability, security, and prospects in the country of origin greatly influence the decision to return or invest. Improving these conditions over time can stimulate returns and investment. - *Personal values and beliefs*:
– *Influence:* Average=0.05
– *Consideration:* Personal values and beliefs may remain stable or change with life experience. People with a strong sense of duty to their homeland may be more inclined to return or help, regardless of other factors. - *Family influence*:
– *Influence:* Average= 0.05
– *Consideration:* Upbringing and family values can significantly influence the preservation of identity and connection with the country of origin. Changes in family structure or distance from family over time can affect these tendencies.
In general, identity preservation and the propensity to return to or help the country of origin may change over time in an interplay of these factors. A systematic approach to maintaining cultural identity and creating favorable conditions for reassimilation can contribute to strengthening ties with the country of origin, even in the long term.