Breaking Colonial Legacies: Political, Economic, and Cultural Dimensions of Decolonization

Research Article
Written By Cynthia Brain LLM

Abstract

Many of us know about the more significant decolonization trends throughout history, including in the Americas, Africa, and Asia, and the battles fought to ensure the local peoples’ rights were incorporated into their systems- not just to join the long-established systems. However, when we start to research and realize that decolonization requires more than dismantling political systems, we can see how much effort and care it takes to break down and challenge the colonial roots embedded into political, social, cultural, psychological, and business practices. This article will explore the various types of decolonization and examine Dr. Enriques’ explanation of how local human rights defenders challenge the previous norms to work to bring back their Indigenous or historical roots.

Photo Cr: Maël BALLAND (Unsplash)

I. Introduction

As stated by the 1960 UN Resolution 1514 (XV), any country has the right under the Charter of the United Nations to remain free and in equal standing to promote the rights and welfare of its citizens. Based on UN data today, there are only 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories with less than 2 million people to account for. In some cases, Agencies will work towards protecting against “environmental problems”, including the impact of natural disasters, However, those within the country must develop and create stable conditions and be aware of the conflicts that may arise as their freedom is affirmed. But often, populations are purposefully left in the dark.

So, what is the United Nations genuinely doing to combat colonization efforts? Are they relying too much on local organizations to ensure that decolonization initiatives are sustainable?

Therefore, as human rights advocates and awareness creators, we must understand the critical framework and definitions used by youth working on Indigenous decolonization initiatives around the globe. This understanding is not just a matter of academic interest but a commitment to the cause of decolonization.

II. Paths of Decolonization

Decolonization can be divided into three interrelated types: political, economic, and cultural.

Political decolonization is the transfer of power from colonial rulers to local authorities, requiring stable institutions that reflect the population's needs. While independence is a key goal, it initiates the ongoing. UN Resolution 1514 (1960) underscores the right of all peoples to self-determination, though ensuring stability and unity after independence remains critical.

Economic decolonization aims to break free from colonial economic systems that left many colonies dependent on specific industries and external markets. This process seeks to create self-sustaining, diversified economies. However, neocolonial practices, such as trade imbalances and resource exploitation, often complicate these efforts.

Cultural decolonization aims to restore and revive Indigenous languages, traditions, and knowledge systems suppressed or marginalized under colonial rule. Colonization imposed foreign cultural norms, creating identity struggles for the colonized populations. Cultural decolonization requires reclaiming these identities and healing from historical trauma. As communities reconnect with their roots, they may experience moments of anger and resistance as part of their recovery process, making reconciliation and psychological restoration essential to rebuilding cultural integrity.

III. Frameworks for Decolonization Movements

Professor Virgilio Enriques provides a five-phase framework that illustrates the intricate and ongoing process of decolonization. The first phase, Rediscovery, involves reconnecting with Indigenous identity by re-learning cultural practices, languages, and traditions. Once rediscovering occurs, the second phase, Healing, begins, where individuals and communities confront the historical trauma of colonization. This stage often brings emotional challenges, expressed through protests or acts of resistance, as people mourn their losses and reclaim power.

Following healing, the third phase, Dreaming, allows communities to envision a new political and social structure rooted in their cultural values. This imaginative process is essential to building sustainable governance systems. Enriques argues that if this phase is timely and complete, it can result in better-developed structures that may lead to state failure. The fourth phase, Commitment, solidifies the collective will of the people to pursue self-determination, fostering unity in the face of oppressive systems. Finally, the fifth phase, Action, marks the culmination of these efforts, where communities actively confront colonial powers to demand freedom and autonomy. Through these interconnected phases, decolonization becomes a political movement and a holistic renewal process, ensuring future generations can thrive with cultural integrity and sovereignty.

 

IV. Conclusions and Recommendations

Decolonization remains a critical but complex endeavor. For sustainable outcomes, international organizations such as the UN should:

  • Strengthen partnerships with Indigenous movements and local human rights defenders.

  • Provide support for post-colonial economies through fair trade agreements and resource-sharing initiatives.

  • Address ongoing neocolonial practices by monitoring the influence of former colonial powers in economic and political matters.

The path to decolonization is ongoing, requiring continuous engagement at multiple levels to achieve justice, sovereignty, and cultural renewal.

V. Bibliography

Cynthia Brain LLM

Cynthia Brain is a Program Manager and Policy Analyst with 8+ years of expertise in human rights program management and legal research within international relations and policy development. Recognized for delivering impactful programming objectives and driving strategic change through collaborative efforts.

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