In the digital age, the new currency of wealth is data. But who controls this powerful resource? The classic colonialism that plundered nations’ natural resources has been replaced by a new exploitative order centered on data. Its name: digital colonialism.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the concept of data sovereignty and discuss how we can resist digital colonialism. This is no longer just a technological issue; it’s a cultural, political, and economic battleground.
What is Digital Colonialism?
In traditional colonialism, land, minerals, and labor were exploited. In digital colonialism, the following are targeted:
- User data,
- Habits and behavioral patterns,
- Digital infrastructure,
- Content production and distribution.
Often without us even realizing, every moment of our lives flows into the data pools of major tech companies. This data is processed, analyzed, and returned to us as products, ads, recommendations, and even manipulation. But who benefits? Mostly the tech giants of the Global North. In other words, we produce the data, but we don’t control it.
What is Data Sovereignty?
Data sovereignty refers to the right of individuals and nations to own, control, and determine the use of their data. This concept encompasses:
- Where data is stored,
- Who accesses it,
- How it is processed,
- The purposes for which it is used.
If a country cannot oversee how its citizens’ data is used by foreign companies or governments, it has lost the digital dimension of its sovereignty.
Signs of Digital Colonialism
Let’s not think of digital colonialism as merely an abstract concept. Here are some concrete indicators:
- Monopolization of Data Centers: The largest data centers are primarily based in the US and China.
- Software and Platform Dependency: Developing nations rely on external sources for social media, search engines, and cloud systems.
- Linguistic and Cultural Dominance: Most digital content is in English, often promoting specific cultural narratives.
- Infrastructure Control: Internet service providers and server hosting systems are frequently foreign-controlled.
- Cyber Surveillance: International companies and foreign governments monitor user behavior, creating a digital surveillance network.
So, What Can We Do?
How can we, as individuals and collectively, counter next-generation digital colonialism? Here are some strategies:
1.Develop National Data Policies
Governments should establish local data laws and regulations to protect individuals’ data and ensure transparent data usage. The European Union’s GDPR serves as a pioneering example in this regard.
2.Support Local Technology Ecosystems
Developing domestic software, cloud systems, and digital platforms can reduce external dependency. Digital infrastructure should be viewed not only as a commercial asset but also as a strategic security domain.
3.Increase Data Literacy
Every segment of society must understand how their data is collected, used, and protected. Data sovereignty can only be defended through awareness, not just legislation.
4.Invest in Open-Source and Ethical Technologies
One way to break technological dependency is to support open-source software. This ensures that software is transparent, auditable, and community-driven.
5.Establish Regional Collaborations
Fighting alone is not enough. Developing nations, in particular, should create joint policies and infrastructures to achieve digital sovereignty.
Digital Independence is the New Freedom Struggle
The colonial order of the past was built on physical resources; today’s is built on data. Our behaviors and digital footprints are the new mines. Who controls this data will also determine who holds power in the future.
If we don’t question the platforms we surrender our data to or reduce our digital dependency, we won’t be able to shape our digital destiny. Therefore, data sovereignty is not just a technological issue—it’s a matter of cultural awakening and resistance.
