Why Global Migration Data Should Recognize Subgroups Like the Teochew

The article argues that current global migration data systems fail to capture the diversity within broad ethnic labels such as 'Asian' or 'Chinese', using the Teochew community as an example. It contrasts two data collection philosophies: countries like France and Norway avoid collecting race and ethnicity data to promote national unity, while the US, UK, and Canada collect such data to identify discrimination and design social policies. However, both approaches are criticized for using monolithic categories that obscure subgroup dynamics, which are crucial for understanding business networks, cultural heritage, and community life. The article calls for data systems to recognize subgroups like the Teochew to provide a more complete picture of global migration.