Exiles as Solidary Intermediaries

Abstract

This chapter explores solidarity as a mode of collective action by which exiles ought to seek assistance. It applies Avery Kolers’s account of political solidarity, which is especially attentive to the asymmetries between those seeking assistance—solidary objects—and those providing assistance—solidary agents. In particular, Kolers’s requirement of deference addresses concerns about motivation, coordination, and asymmetry. I argue that, in order to realize this model of solidarity, a third category of actors—solidary intermediaries—is essential. I outline the requirements of acting as a solidary intermediary and assess how well exiles can meet these requirements. Drawing on the case study of Chilean exiles, I illustrate exiles’ role in enabling solidarity and the challenges they face in doing so.