While our sector decolonises our approaches to PMEL and design, we also need to actively challenge what came before, one of which is the Eurocentric approach to research over the past several decades.

This reflects a growing awareness of the urgent and deep-seated legacies of colonialism that continue to shape global power dynamics, often in subtle but pervasive ways. We not only need a systematic dismantling but also a sector-wide challenge of the role of Eurocentrism in perpetuating inequalities in practices.

Colonialism and its Legacy

To decolonise properly, we first need to understand its impact. Colonialism is not just a series of historical crimes confined to the past. It has left behind ongoing structures that shape global relations, and we need to start with a better understanding of them. While formal colonial rule may have ended in many parts of the world, the underlying power dynamics persist in what is often referred to as ‘coloniality.’

These are the ways in which the social, economic, and cultural hierarchies established during the colonial era continue to influence global systems. We can see that in the dominance of Western (primarily European) knowledge systems, economic practices, and cultural norms, which are often regarded as universal and superior.

Even after decolonisation, many former colonies are entangled in neo-colonial relationships. Their economic and political trajectories are shaped by external forces, often at the cost of their sovereignty and development.

Role of Coloniality in Development

Eurocentrism is the practice of viewing the world through a European lens and privileging European values and experiences and is a key element of coloniality. In the context of development, Eurocentrism manifests in several ways, including the imposition of Western development models, the dominance of Western-led institutions like the World Bank and the IMF, and the marginalisation of non-Western knowledge systems.

This Eurocentric approach often leads to the exploitation and underdevelopment of non-Western countries, perpetuating a sense of injustice and systemic inequality.

Eurocentrism in development also perpetuates harmful stereotypes at the most harmless end of the spectrum and entrenched power imbalances at the other. The depiction of former colonies as backward, primitive, or in need of Western intervention has long been a staple of our sector, an unspoken assumption that underpins our work. One of the clearest manifestations of that is the ‘white saviour’ mentality, where Western individuals and organisations are seen as the primary agents of progress. While saviourism is nowhere near an exclusively White, Western concept (think of the ways in which privileged groups in metropolitan cities view their rural or poorer fellow citizens), the term is widely recognised as originating in White countries since it derives from the role of Bretton Woods institutions who built our sector. This mentality undermines the agency of local communities and perpetuates the very hierarchies that decolonisation seeks to dismantle. [More on saviourism in a later post].

Why We Need to Decolonise

Decolonising isn’t just about rejecting Western models and practices. It’s about creating space for alternative ways of knowing, being, and doing that are rooted in the experiences and wisdom of diverse groups of people. This requires a fundamental shift in how we approach development, moving away from a one-size-fits-all model to ones that are more inclusive, participatory, and respectful of diverse perspectives.

Decolonisation also involves challenging the existing power structures that sustain Eurocentrism. This includes questioning who sets the agenda in development, who benefits from development projects, and whose knowledge is considered valuable. Decolonisation, when done right, changes not only policies and practices, but consciousness or mindsets. It requires a deep, reflective engagement with the ways in which we, as individuals and organisations, may be complicit in sustaining coloniality. In that way, it’s something to which all of us can contribute to, from the individual to the systemic level.

The Path Ahead

The path isn’t easy, but it’s the only way to reshape our sector to be more just and equitable. This process involves both individual and collective action. On an individual level, it requires a commitment to learning and unlearning, to questioning our assumptions, and to being open to new perspectives.

On a collective level, it requires a strong sense of solidarity, collaboration, and the willingness to challenge powerful institutions and interests. It’s based off the idea that together, in meaningful not performative ways, we can make a difference.

One practical step towards decolonising development is to amplify the voices of activists, organisations, movements, and leaders from the places where we work, who are often marginalised in mainstream development discourse.

This involves not just supporting research and initiatives led by local communities but actively advocating for a more equitable distribution of resources and power in global institutions.

Decolonising also means being vigilant about the ways in which coloniality manifests in our everyday work. Whether through the dominance of English in international forum, the prioritisation of Western expertise, or the lack of diversity in decision-making bodies, these are all areas where change is needed. These are also all areas where we can start to make these changes in ourselves and in our teams.

Ultimately, decolonising is about co-imagining a world where all people have the power to shape their own futures, free from the legacies of colonial domination. It is a call to action for all of us to work towards a more inclusive, equitable, and decolonised world.