In a world increasingly interconnected by migration, the global diaspora population continues to grow. People leave their countries for a range of reasons, from economic opportunity and education to political instability and conflict.
Some nations have seen tens of millions of their citizens settle abroad. Here are ten countries with the largest diasporas in the world, based on data from the United Nations and other migration studies.
1. India
India tops the list with the largest diaspora population in the world. Over 18 million Indians live outside of the country.
Indian emigrants are widely spread across the globe, with particularly large communities in the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
The Indian diaspora is known for its economic contributions both to host countries and through remittances sent back home, which amounted to over $100 billion in 2023.
Many Indian migrants are professionals in the tech, healthcare, and engineering sectors, while others are part of older labor migration patterns in the Gulf states.
2. Mexico
Mexico has one of the most significant emigrant populations, with around 11 million Mexicans living abroad. The majority reside in the United States, due to geographic proximity and long-standing economic and cultural ties.
Mexican migration to the U.S. has deep historical roots, but it surged particularly in the late 20th century. The diaspora has played a major role in shaping American culture and labor markets, especially in agriculture, construction, and services.
Remittances from the Mexican diaspora are also a vital source of income for many rural families back home.
3. Russia
Russia has a diaspora population estimated at around 10.8 million. The largest groups of Russian emigrants are found in former Soviet republics such as Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Belarus, reflecting historical and cultural connections.
Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, many ethnic Russians moved to neighboring countries, while others migrated to Western Europe, Israel, and North America.
Recent geopolitical tensions and economic sanctions have also led to new waves of emigration, particularly among younger, educated Russians.
4. China
China’s diaspora is one of the most dispersed in the world, numbering approximately 10 million people. Chinese emigrants have established long-standing communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
In recent decades, large numbers have also moved to North America, Australia, and Europe. Chinese migration includes a diverse range of people, from wealthy investors and students to laborers and traders.
5. Syria
Syria's diaspora, now estimated at over 8 million, has grown rapidly since the outbreak of civil war in 2011. Many Syrians have sought refuge in neighboring countries like Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan, while others have resettled in Europe, Canada, and the United States.
The Syrian diaspora has become one of the most significant humanitarian challenges of the 21st century. Despite hardship, many Syrians abroad have worked to support their families and communities back home through remittances and advocacy.
6. Bangladesh
Bangladesh has an emigrant population of more than 7.5 million, most of whom live and work in the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. These workers are primarily employed in construction, domestic services, and other labor-intensive industries.
The Bangladeshi diaspora also has growing communities in the United Kingdom, Italy, and the United States. Remittances play a crucial role in the Bangladeshi economy, contributing significantly to national GDP.
7. Pakistan
With nearly 7 million Pakistanis living abroad, the country has developed a substantial diaspora, primarily in the Gulf region, the United Kingdom, and North America. Pakistani migration has roots in both labor and education.
In recent years, many professionals have migrated for better opportunities in medicine, IT, and engineering. Meanwhile, temporary labor migration to Gulf countries remains a key driver of remittances and household income for families in Pakistan.
8. Ukraine
Ukraine has seen significant outward migration, especially since the conflict with Russia began in 2014 and escalated in 2022. The Ukrainian diaspora is now estimated at over 6 million. Major destinations include Poland, Germany, Italy, Canada, and the United States.
Many Ukrainians abroad have sought asylum, work, or reunification with family members. The diaspora plays a key role in humanitarian support and advocacy for Ukraine’s sovereignty on the global stage.
9. The Philippines
The Philippines has a long-standing tradition of labor migration, with around 6 million Filipinos working and living overseas. Known as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), many are employed in healthcare, domestic work, shipping, and hospitality.
Major destinations include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Japan. The Philippine government has institutionalized migration, and remittances from OFWs form a significant part of the country's economy, often exceeding $30 billion annually.
10. Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s diaspora, numbering over 6 million, has grown due to decades of war, political instability, and economic hardship. The largest Afghan communities abroad are found in Iran and Pakistan, followed by Germany, the United States, and Turkey.
Many Afghan migrants are refugees and asylum seekers. Despite challenges, the diaspora has become increasingly engaged in rebuilding efforts, providing humanitarian aid, and advocating for Afghan rights internationally.
