noun
- the practice of using economic, political, or cultural pressure to control or influence other countries, especially former colonies, instead of direct military force or political control
Usage: typically used in political and historical contexts; often used critically to describe power imbalances between developed and developing nations
Examples
- Critics argue that wealthy nations practice neocolonialism by imposing unfavorable trade agreements on developing countries.
- The concept of neocolonialism emerged in the 1960s as African nations gained independence but remained economically dependent on their former colonial rulers.
- Some scholars view foreign debt and structural adjustment programs as forms of neocolonialism.
- Neocolonialism allows powerful nations to maintain influence without the costs of direct military occupation.
- The documentary examined how neocolonialism has shaped economic relationships between Europe and Africa since decolonization.
- Developing nations have criticized neocolonialism as a continuation of exploitation under a different name.