Peculiarities of transforming diasporas: the case of the Armenian Diaspora

ABSTRACT The article proposes the methodology of studying the changes in diasporas evolved from the former post-Soviet space after the collapse of the Soviet Union, as well as the results of the research based on this methodology. The article draws upon the case of the Armenian Diaspora, which is considered as classical or historical diaspora. It is argued that during the evolution of diasporas, the changes in the prerequisite for their replenishment affect their nature and characteristics. Even significant differences may arise between the communities forming the same diaspora. Thus, there is a need to make a comparative analysis of the communities forming the same diaspora. The article presents a four-stage model of periodization of the Armenian Diaspora. It proposes to supplement the classification of diasporas suggested by Cohen with the transforming type of diaspora. This will allow for more accurate description of the developments taking place in diasporas for almost three decades, resulting from the post-Soviet transformation, as well as the collapse of the old world order and formation of a new one.