Decolonisation means to reduce the size of a population, whereas decolonialisation means to remove the traces of a colonial power. Why did the world adopt “decolonisation” instead of “decolonialisation” to describe the processes intended to provide redress for slavery and colonial exploitation?
The adoption of the term “decolonisation” rather than “decolonialisation” reflects historical, linguistic, and political factors. While both terms could theoretically describe the processes of dismantling colonial rule, “decolonisation” became the dominant term for several reasons:
1. Historical Context
The term “decolonisation” gained traction in the mid-20th century as former colonies achieved political independence from European empires. This process primarily focused on the transfer of political sovereignty rather than addressing the deeper legacies of colonialism, such as cultural, social, and economic structures. “Decolonisation” thus came to signify the immediate and visible end of colonial administration, which suited the priorities of the time.
2. Simplicity and Usage
“Decolonisation” is shorter and easier to pronounce than “decolonialisation,” making it more likely to gain widespread use. In political discourse, simpler terms often prevail, as they are more accessible to a broader audience.
3. Focus on Political Independence
“Decolonisation” typically refers to the formal withdrawal of colonial powers and the establishment of independent nation-states. This narrow focus aligns with the way colonial powers framed the end of empire, emphasising the relinquishment of control rather than addressing systemic inequalities or cultural erasure. “Decolonialisation,” which suggests a deeper dismantling of colonial influences, would have implied a broader and more transformative agenda, challenging the very systems of power that remained intact after political independence.
4. Eurocentric Framing
Colonial powers and their narratives often shaped the language of decolonisation. By using “decolonisation,” the emphasis remained on the process as a manageable, finite event—a clean break from colonial rule. “Decolonialisation” would have implied a more radical and ongoing process of dismantling colonial ideologies and addressing historical injustices, which may have been less appealing to those in power.
5. Emerging Critical Discourses
In recent decades, scholars and activists have adopted terms like “decoloniality” to emphasise the enduring effects of colonialism and the need for a deeper transformation of knowledge systems, cultural norms, and global power dynamics. These terms highlight the limitations of mid-20th-century “decolonisation” efforts, which often left economic dependency and cultural imperialism intact.
Conclusion
The world adopted “decolonisation” over “decolonialisation” because it aligned with the dominant political narrative of the time: the end of direct colonial rule. However, the limitations of this term have become increasingly apparent, as achieving political sovereignty has not necessarily addressed the systemic legacies of colonialism. “Decolonialisation” remains a useful concept for those who advocate for a more comprehensive transformation of colonial structures and ideologies.
