The fight against exploitation and inequality | Political economy

he term neocolonial policies refers to a contemporary form of governance in which the structural and institutional legacy of colonialism continues, often manifesting itself in continued exploitation and control of resources by a ruling elite.

This concept differs significantly from a postcolonial state, which typically suggests a formal end to colonial rule, even as it continues to struggle with the socio-economic and political consequences of its colonial past.

Political theorists, such as Kwame Nkrumah and Frantz Fanon, have critically examined these distinctions, highlighting how neocolonialism involves external powers and local elites working together to maintain control, undermining sovereignty and democratic participation.

Pakistan occupies a unique position in this context and distinguishes itself from other nation states that became independent at the same time. While many of the countries have since completed their post-colonial journey towards stability and development, Pakistan’s trajectory has been marked by a series of distinct challenges and complexities.

This difference highlights the particular historical, political and social factors that have shaped Pakistan’s identity and governance, setting the country apart from its peers in the quest for self-determination and progress.

Historically, colonial regimes extracted resources from their colonies through extraction mechanisms, which resulted in wealth flowing to the colonists rather than benefiting local populations. These exploitative dynamics have been reconfigured in many postcolonial states, where local elites copy these extractive practices, often making current exploitation even more harmful.

While colonial powers operated under the guise of a civilizing mission, which sometimes included establishing rudimentary health facilities and educational systems, many contemporary local elites prioritize personal enrichment over public welfare. Under colonial rule there was some degree of rule of law and public services, although these primarily served the interests of the colonists.

In many neocolonial contexts, a lack of accountability and governance results in significant deterioration of service delivery, leaving citizens without access to education or healthcare.

The current state of affairs, characterized by a profound moral decay among the privileged, gives rise to a stark comparison. The priorities of these individuals clearly appear to be at odds with the interests of the country and the well-being of its citizens. Their actions often suggest that self-interest and power struggles overshadow any genuine commitment to the common good. In this context, one cannot help but regard the colonial era, with all its flaws, as an era of more principled government. There was at least a semblance of concern for national integrity and collective progress.

Understanding the nuances between neocolonialism and postcolonial governance is crucial for a comprehensive analysis of the situation. In this context, neocolonialism reveals itself through oppressive governance practices and the pervasive absence of inclusive institutions. These dynamics not only perpetuate but also exacerbate existing cycles of inequality and disenfranchisement among the population.

The implications are profound: the state’s failure to promote equitable systems of representation and justice further entrenches social inequality, limits opportunities for marginalized communities, and hinders national progress. Thus, a thorough understanding of these concepts is not merely academic; it is essential for addressing the challenges facing Pakistan and moving towards a more just and inclusive future.

In Why Nations FailDaron Acemoglu and James A Robinson argue that the different economic and political institutions within countries are fundamental to their success or failure. This analysis provides a critical lens through which we can view the neocolonial state, which can be seen as a continuation of colonial governance structures that perpetuate inequality and exploitation.

The neocolonial state serves the interests of the elite and sidelines the well-being of its citizens. According to Acemoglu and Robinson, inclusive institutions – which enable broad participation in economic and political life – are crucial for sustainable development. The governance models in neocolonial states often use technologies of control, such as surveillance, coercive legal systems, and propaganda, to maintain power and suppress dissent. These methods strengthen the authority of the ruling class and hinder inclusive economic growth and democratic participation.

The state of human rights, civil rights and the rule of law in Pakistan today is illustrative of the consequences of this dynamic. The ruling elite’s policies have led to widespread repression and a systematic erosion of democratic norms.

Human rights violations, including arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances and suppression of freedom of expression, are widespread. These create an environment in which citizens feel increasingly powerless. The lack of accountability and transparency, especially in the most powerful institutions, further exacerbates the situation, leaving the population disenfranchised and disillusioned.

The recent passage of the 26th Amendment to the Constitution has significantly undermined the public’s right to justice, effectively diluting the legal system and making it subservient to the capricious demands of the executive branch.

This alarming development has compromised the integrity of legal processes and eroded essential safeguards designed to maintain fairness and accountability in governance. As a result, the foundation of justice is at risk, leaving citizens vulnerable to arbitrary decisions and decreasing their confidence in the rule of law.

The extractive economic structures established during colonial times remain largely unchanged. The elite uses its control over state mechanisms to siphon resources from the local economy, diverting wealth to safe locations such as London or Dubai.

This practice reflects historical colonial extraction, where benefits flowed out of colonized regions, leaving local populations impoverished and disenfranchised. Acemoglu and Robinson emphasize that such extractive institutions lead to stagnation and inequality, preventing countries from realizing their full potential.

Reliance on foreign investment and partnerships often deepens this extractive dynamic. Global corporations, often in collaboration with local elites, exploit natural resources and labor while repatriating profits. This not only increases wealth inequality, but also undermines the creation of inclusive institutions that can promote equitable growth. Without inclusive economic institutions, countries are unlikely to achieve lasting prosperity.

Pakistan is an example of a neo-colonial state where the legacies of the past dictate the present and future. Control technologies ensure that power remains concentrated and perpetuate poverty and dependency.

Elite policies endanger the prospects for a fairer and more equal society. A fundamental restructuring of political and economic institutions is necessary to break this cycle. By promoting inclusive governance and equitable distribution of resources, countries can take steps toward sustainable development and true empowerment of their citizens, delivering on the promise of more resilient and prosperous societies.

---

The writer is a professor at the Faculty of Liberal Arts, Beaconhouse National University, Lahore.