What exactly is digital colonialism?
In a world in which data is considered the new oil (cf.
article by the organization Bread for the World: https://www.brot-fuer-die-welt.de/themen/digitalisierung/digitaler-kolonialismus-faktencheck/), the concept of digital colonialism is becoming increasingly important.
But what is actually behind this term – which does not necessarily have positive connotations – and why should we care?
Digital colonialism is a multi-layered term that is not always understood in the same way.
In our view, the term is best explained as describing the way in which certain companies and powers gain and exercise control over data, technology and resources, often at the expense of less developed regions and communities.
This process is similar to historical patterns of colonization, where resources and power were unequally distributed, but with the difference that today’s “raw materials” are digital data.
Data control and its consequences
A central aspect of the effects that are often described with the term digital colonialism is control over data.
Large companies around the world collect data in order to analyze, influence and commercially exploit behavior patterns.
This often takes neither consent nor compensation for those affected into account.
This practice does not only affect people in the western world; with the increasing digitalization of the global south, this data control is spreading worldwide.
The consequences are serious, as those affected are often neither sufficiently sensitized nor protected by appropriate data protection laws.
The power of market-dominant technology companies
Companies such as Google, Facebook and Amazon dominate many aspects of digital life in Europe, the USA and worldwide.
This market dominance makes it difficult for local companies, especially in the Global South, to compete.
The economic power in the digital sector therefore often lies in the West, which weakens local markets and innovation capabilities in the Global South.
Technological dependency
Dependence on technologies that are developed and controlled by foreign, mostly Western or Asian, companies, such as smartphones, can restrict the technological self-determination of people living in countries of the global South.
This dependence prevents them from developing their own infrastructures and capacities and influences consumption and usage behavior worldwide.
Cultural dominance
The spread of technologies and content that originate mainly from the dominant digital powers can lead to a loss of cultural diversity and identity.
This cultural dominance can overwhelm local cultures and traditions, which in the long term can contribute to the homogenization of the global cultural landscape.
The risks of the digital gold rush
Western dominance and the digital gold rush mood of some companies harbor many risks in the long term, not only for those directly affected, but also for the current beneficiaries.
Problems such as migration and the intensification of conflicts are just some of the potential consequences that underline the need to take measures for a differentiated, fair and transparent digital globalization.
A plea for fair digital globalization
It has never been easier to take steps towards a fairer digital world.
Political, economic and social efforts are needed to promote a digital globalization that benefits everyone, taking into account cultural differences and promoting a culturally sensitive bringing together of commonalities.
At BitKollegen, we also try to make our contribution: with fair working conditions and the attempt to make IT outsourcing sustainable and responsible.
In conclusion, the lack of consideration of the risks of digital colonialism in current policy proposals, such as the European draft EU supply chain law, is a missed opportunity.
It is time that we recognize the full implications of digital colonialism and take proactive measures to minimize its negative impact
