Source: West Asia and Africa, No.4, 2023

Abstract: The relationship between Leganese diaspora and the motherland is a typical representative of the relationship between overseas diaspora and the motherland in the Eastern Mediterranean region and even in the whole Middle East region. Lebanon's migration has lasted for nearly two centuries, its historical evolution can be divided into two stages, namely in the middle of the 19th century to 1943 before the independence of the late Ottoman empire and French colonial rule, and the modern period after the founding of Lebanon. The Western colonial heritage, sectarian conflict, economic crisis, civil war and other factors had an important impact on the Lebanese diaspora. Identity and economic ties constitute the main ways for Lebanese diaspora to maintain ties with their homeland. The identity of Lebanese diaspora has experienced a process from sectarian identity to regional identity and then to national identity. It is not only benefited from its own social construction in religion, nationality, culture and other aspects, but also related with the diaspora policy of the Lebanese government. The main economic links between Lebanese diaspora and their motherland mainly include overseas remittances, bond investment and tourism, and provide important support for the Lebanese economy. Influenced by various factors, the connection between Lebanese diaspora and their motherland is still limited. In the future, the rational utilization and management of diaspora resources is one of the important topics of national governance in Lebanon.

Key Words:Leganese diaspora; identity; economics ties; overseas remittance