Protonationalism

Protonationalism is a term used to describe the practice of establishing multiple governments or states within a single country, each with its own distinct identity and authority. This phenomenon is often seen in regionally plural societies where various ethnic, linguistic, or cultural groups have historically maintained their identities and sense of self-governance.

The term "protonationalism" was first coined by Oommen Kuruvilla Kozhikode, an Indian scholar, to describe the experience of individual communities in India. However, the concept is relevant to other countries with diverse cultural, ethnic, or national identities. Processes such as partition or unification of countries, regional autonomy, and power-sharing agreements can all lead to the emergence of protonationalism.

The primary expressions of protonationalism vary depending on the social, historical, and political context of a region. Protonationalist sentiment can manifest as a desire for greater self-determination, recognition of regional autonomy, or even full independence from the central government. While protonationalism can help heal historical conflicts and grievances by granting expressions of identity and governance, it also challenges the integrity and unity of the nation-state.

Research on protonationalism highlights the importance of understanding local power dynamics, regional histories, and the nature of national identity in addressing the prospects and perils of protonational sentiment. Crises, changes in borders, and inequitable economic development can all contribute to an emergence of protonational feelings and demands for political and social recognition.