A Voice for the Marginalized

Lucia Sibanga Before the 1980s, post-colonialism and feminism were separate theories in international relations (IR). However, these theories later merged to form post-colonial feminist IR theory. Both focus on the marginalization of ‘others’ by ruling structures, defending their interests against such marginalization. Post-colonial theory aims to undermine the colonizer’s discourse, which distorts the experiences of the colonized and exerts control over them. This theory highlights literature by colonized people that reclaims their identity and history, challenging the narratives imposed by colonizers. Post-colonial feminist IR theory encourages us to view the world through the eyes of previously colonized women of color,…