Iranian Diaspora

"Iranian Diaspora: Life and Identity of Iranians Abroad" offers a vivid exploration of the Iranian exile experience-marked by longing, adaptation, and the persistent imprint of Persian heritage. The book investigates the diverse realities of displacement, following Iranians scattered across continents and generations, each carrying unique motives and memories: some driven by political upheaval, others by academic or professional aspirations.

Rather than a monolithic entity, the Iranian diaspora manifests as a mosaic of interwoven stories, reflecting not just historical crises-like revolutions or economic shifts-but also the personal journeys where identity is shaped and reshaped in response to new circumstances. The narrative immerses readers in the tension between maintaining traditional practices-language, food, and customs-and navigating the pull of assimilation in unfamiliar environments.

Communities, family ties, and digital networks serve as vital refuges, helping preserve collective memory and nurture evolving identities. The book illuminates the balancing act between cultural retention and adaptation, exploring the pain of nostalgia and the constant negotiation of selfhood amid pressures from both ancestral legacy and new surroundings. It delves into questions about belonging, difference, and the forging of new communal myths, all shaped by the unpredictability of diaspora life.

A major focus is how Iranians abroad interact with their host societies and with Iran itself. Their engagement evolves-ranging from activism and advocacy to moments of ambivalence-as they respond to shifting perceptions of their homeland, coloured by emotions such as affection, alienation, and hope. The complexities of this relationship are further enriched by transnational connections, remittances, and the ongoing impact of post-revolutionary history. At the same time, external challenges-like prejudice, political suspicion, and issues of representation-complicate these experiences.

Interdisciplinary in scope, the book draws from sociology, anthropology, history, and cultural studies to create a rich portrait of Iranian life abroad. Scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, students, and refugees all contribute to this vibrant tableau, their successes and struggles illuminating persistent themes of misrecognition, marginality, and the ache of distance from home.

Ultimately, "Iranian Diaspora: Life and Identity of Iranians Abroad" transcends mere storytelling; it is a reclamation of identity and testament to the resilience of Iranian expatriates. For scholars, policymakers, or any curious reader, the book provides a nuanced, multifaceted perspective on migration, globalisation, and the enduring significance of heritage, making it a vital contribution to understanding the adaptability and resourcefulness of the Iranian people.