Colonialism as a Structure

In this research group, we investigate the extent to which colonialism can be understood as a structure that evolved since ancient times. Our focus is on identifying different colonial logics, underlying mechanisms, and their consequences. The network unites scholars from various disciplines who study colonialism and related topics, offering global, comparative, and long-term perspectives on this pivotal and disruptive force that has profoundly influenced the creation of both ancient and modern world orders.

Settler Colonial Discourse

In the first year of our network (2023-2024), our discussions primarily focused on the concept of settler colonialism as a distinct form of colonialism with its own specific logic. Drawing from the foundational studies by Patrick Wolfe and Lorenzo Veracini, we explored the value of this concept and its associated logic of elimination for our research across various time periods. Our meetings were enriched by experts in the field, including Yair Wallach, Hanneke Stuit and Cyrus Schayegh, who provided the latest critical insights into the rapidly developing settler colonial discourse.  

These discussions culminated in an intensive workshop at the Royal Netherlands Institute in Rome (17-21 June) that focused on the mental frameworks that trigger and sustain settler colonial structures, the connection between land and elimination strategies, and the role of intermediaries and identities in indigenous-settler discourses and interactions. Full programme here

The network is affiliated with and co-funded by RUG/KNIR Settler colonialism as a paradigm (SECOPS) research program.

Contact: Jeremia Pelgrom and Clemens Six