Post-Soviet Colonialism and Postcolonialism: A Controversial Discourse

Abstract

Postcolonial theory is based on criticizing the unequal relationship between the subject performing imperial expansion and the colonized community. The idea of becoming a dominant power over other states to preserve one's existence and power remains relevant to Russia even today. Examining the present-day practices of empires to the countries they once governed as colonies, they claim to engage in trade and act according to human values. However, considering the outcomes of these events, it becomes clear that they have never abandoned the logic of colonialism. For a long time, colonialism was primarily studied in terms of its economic, political, and military dimensions, i.e. economic exploitation methods, colonial administration strategies, military occupation practices, and national movements for independence were thoroughly examined. With the emergence of postcolonial theory, the cultural and ideological aspects came to the forefront. Russia's colonial policies also have a long history. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the independence of the various states (republics) that were once part of it, this discourse became more relevant and one of the main topics of discussion.