ODVV Interview: Colonialism, Imperialism, and the Right of Self-Determination

Overview of the ODVV Video Interview with Dr. Chandra Muzaffar, President of the International Movement for a Just World (JUST)
Summary: Dr. Chandra Muzaffar, President of the International Movement for a Just World (JUST), examines the interconnectedness of colonialism, imperialism, and self-determination, focusing on the Palestinian struggle. Colonialism is the historical domination of weaker nations by stronger powers, mainly from the 18th to 20th centuries, resulting in the subjugation of many regions in the Global South. Although many of these nations have since gained independence, they now face a modern form of control: imperialism. Unlike colonialism, imperialism operates through indirect dominance over politics, economies, culture, and resources, especially post-World War II.
The situation in Palestine illustrates this dynamic. Historically, Palestine was a diverse land where Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexisted. However, in 1917, British colonial powers decided to establish an exclusive Jewish homeland in Palestine, which eventually became Israel in 1948. This decision sparked intense resistance from Palestinians—Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike—who opposed the creation of a state rooted in exclusivity. This opposition mirrors other global struggles against colonialism.
After 1948, direct colonial rule shifted to indirect imperialism, with Western powers, particularly the U.S. and Britain, supporting Israel for strategic reasons like control over oil and geopolitical dominance. The ongoing conflict is thus framed as resistance not only against colonialism and imperialism but also against Zionism, which is best described as an ideology of exclusion and domination. Zionism aligns with imperial interests, creating a state that prioritizes ethnic exclusivity and undermines the historical coexistence that once defined Palestine.
The conflict is portrayed as more than just a territorial dispute; it is a struggle for a multi-religious, multi-ethnic society, in contrast to what the contemporary state of Israel is, racist and exclusionary. The human cost of this struggle has been tragic and immense, involving displacement, suffering, and loss of life. Ultimately, the Palestinian resistance is presented as one of the last major battles against the remnants of colonialism, modern imperialism, and racial ideologies.

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tIlgGdzheeOd2HyysE-xC9_0RZ6bnTAG/view?usp=drive_link