decolonization

Decolonization is the process by which colonies gain political independence and sovereignty, ending the formal or effective control of a metropolitan power. While strongly associated with the mid-20th century, it describes a broader and ongoing set of political, legal, and social transformations toward self-government and national autonomy.

After World War II, anti-colonial movements, shifts in international law, and changes in global power relations accelerated decolonization. In 1960 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, reinforcing the legitimacy of self-determination and the right of peoples to freely determine their political status.

Decolonization occurred through negotiations, referendums, constitutional arrangements, and, in some cases, armed struggle. Sovereignty transfers often required new constitutions, border reconciliations, and the restructuring of economic and security relations. Early examples include India and Pakistan achieving independence in 1947, Indonesia's transfer of sovereignty in 1949, and Algeria’s decolonization after 1962; many African states achieved independence in the 1950s and 1960s.

The process reshaped the world order, created numerous new states, and presented ongoing challenges such as nation-building, postcolonial economic development, minority rights, and border disputes. Critics have used terms like neocolonialism to describe continuing external influence, while many former colonies pursued diverse development paths and political systems.

Decolonization remains relevant where populations seek self-determination or greater autonomy within or beyond existing states. Some territories are still listed as non-self-governing by the United Nations, and debates about independence or enhanced self-rule continue in various regions. The principle of self-determination remains a cornerstone of international law, though its realization varies by context.