Privileging the Diaspora in Mauritius: Making World Heritage for a Multicultural Nation

Aapravasi Ghat, inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List as a symbol of the Indian diaspora, serves as a contested site for Mauritian nationalism. While it represents transnational diasporic identity, its designation reflects a political vision that prioritizes diaspora over mixed or entangled identities. This study reveals how diaspora functions as a primary modality for distinguishing Mauritian citizenship and fostering a sense of loyalty to a single place, akin to primordial nationalisms. The research examines the emergence and operation of Aapravasi Ghat as a diasporic heritage project, highlighting the dynamic nature of identities and the political implications of its World Heritage status.

Swift, C. L. (2013). Privileging the Diaspora in Mauritius: Making World Heritage for a Multicultural Nation. Diaspora, 16(3), 287–322. https://doi.org/10.3138/diaspora.16.3.287