Turning Brain Drain into Brain Network and Brain Exchange: A Case Study of Kosovo Albanian Diaspora in the United States

This paper explores strategies for Kosovo Albanian migrants in the United States to contribute to the development of their home country, without necessarily returning. There are many diverse possibilities and practices suggested by migrants, who should be supported by governments and facilitated by Kosovar embassies and consulates. This research draws on 35 biographical interviews conducted in 2023 and 2024 with migrants in the United States. The findings suggest that migrants are willing to share their experience and expertise through the creation of brain networks and brain exchanges. These strategies include the creation of an official network-building website, regular communication channels, a diaspora database and various policies and initiatives by the government to leverage the expertise and talent of these individuals for the nation’s benefit.