Keeping Up the Spirit of Colonialism

Abstract

This chapter critically examines contemporary strategies used by nations to manage migration and protect borders, drawing parallels with historical colonial practices. Countries use a variety of methods to assert control over their territories and safeguard their borders, including physical barriers, stringent immigration policies, legal frameworks, and media campaigns. These strategies often mirror colonial tactics, expecting immigrants to conform to the host country’s culture at the expense of their own identities. The chapter discusses the significance of symbolic capital in the immigrant experience, emphasizing how the lack of recognition and respect can hinder successful integration. It critiques the paradox of migration policies where countries seek to exclude undesirable migrants while attracting those needed for labor, likening this to colonial exploitation where labor was valued over individuals. Various theoretical frameworks, including cultural hybridity and the influence of colonial legacies, are used to highlight the ongoing impact of colonialism on modern migration practices. The chapter argues for a reevaluation of integration policies to promote inclusivity and respect for cultural diversity. It calls for a shift from viewing national culture as static and homogeneous to recognizing it as dynamic and constructed through historical, social, and political forces. The text also critiques the positivist tradition for framing migration discourse primarily in terms of economic utility, marginalizing non-Western perspectives. It emphasizes the need for decolonizing knowledge systems and management practices to foster a more inclusive understanding of national identity and integration.

Citation

Moulettes, A. (2024), "Keeping Up the Spirit of Colonialism", Borders and Barriers: Navigating the Postcolonial Era of Migration in a Globalized World, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 59-90. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83549-526-120241004