ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the analysis of how the narrative on the Diaspora, constructed by Armenia's political leadership, figures in the Armenian national construct. This analysis helps in understanding the shifts in Diaspora discourses and policies of different presidential administrations. The chapter takes into account the transnational character of the entities, the power and strength of their multiple belongings, and the economic or networking power with which they can influence the governments of their home states. It argues that in the reality of a democratically weak state, the power of Diasporas is diminished not only in their homeland but also in their host state. The chapter presents the analysis of Armenians as a 'Diaspora nation', the origins, strengths and weaknesses, cohesion and fracture of Armenians as they perceived themselves as members of gaghut – i.e. people in exile. It focuses on how Armenian political leadership discursively constructed the relationship between the state and the Diaspora.
