The subjugation of a group by a dominant power within the boundaries of the same nation-state, mirroring colonial dynamics, describes a specific power relationship. This involves exploitation of resources, labor, and cultural identity, often leading to socio-economic disparities and political marginalization. An example includes the historical treatment of indigenous populations within settler states, where their land and autonomy are suppressed for the benefit of the dominant group.
Understanding this framework is crucial for analyzing systemic inequalities and power imbalances that persist within societies, even after formal decolonization processes. It highlights how colonial structures can be replicated and maintained through internal policies and practices. Recognizing the mechanisms by which one group is internally colonized provides a lens for addressing historical injustices and promoting social justice.
