Diaspora’s role in their home country’s economic development: The case of Kosovo

This study critically examines the challenges faced by the Kosovo Albanian diaspora in investing in their home country. Despite being a significant economic asset, particularly through substantial remittances that contribute to the national GDP, the diaspora encounters various barriers to effective investment. Based on 53 biographical interviews (2014–2016) with migrants in Switzerland and Germany, as well as 23 interviews with key informants, including officials, trade union representatives, and civil society actors, the study highlights the absence of adequate incentive packages to support diaspora driven investments in Kosovo. The research addresses both individual and policy levels, offering recommendations aimed at enhancing the impact of diaspora financial initiatives.