Today, many people believe that colonies no longer exist because since the second half of the 20th century, colonies have gradually gained independence. But this is a misconception.
However, colonies still exist.
According to United Nations statistics, there are still 17 colonies in the world, with a total population of about 2 million, held by the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and New Zealand.
Western countries nowadays avoid using the term "colonies" because of its negative connotations, opting for more euphemistic terms like "overseas territories" or "overseas possessions." But this change in terminology hasn't altered the legal status and essence of colonies.
1. **United States**
Within the colonies under the United States, some are compelled to have "self-government," like Guam and Puerto Rico, while others, such as American Samoa, are directly ruled by the U.S. government without legal status.
The White House isn't eager to grant these territories independent status but rather utilizes them for the benefit of the U.S., such as having military bases in Guam.
Some U.S. colonies aspire to become independent states, like Puerto Rico, but the U.S. isn't rushing to accommodate their requests.
2. **United Kingdom**
The UK was once a vast empire, nearly ruling half of the globe.
Despite granting independence to colonies like India and Kenya after 1945, it still retains some overseas territories such as the Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, and the Falkland Islands.
These are referred to as British Overseas Territories, some of which are thousands of kilometers away from the UK mainland and receive little mention.
3. **France**
France was also a former colonial empire.
Although it lost some colonies after 1945, it still attempts to control certain areas through force, such as Algeria and French Indochina.
Today, France retains 5 overseas departments, such as French Guiana and Reunion Island.
These regions have relatively high living standards as Paris provides them with substantial subsidies.
4. **New Zealand**
New Zealand's colony is called Tokelau, consisting of three islands with a total population of about 1500 people.
Although Tokelau has held two referendums on independence, the locals do not support independence.
Overall, while African countries have formally gained independence, they are still influenced by the West, such as France's colonies in Africa.
However, emerging colonial powers like China and Russia are rapidly filling the gap left by France's influence in Africa.
The colonial issue is not confined to the past; it still exists today.
These colonies or overseas territories, though forgotten on the margins of the international political stage, still profoundly impact the lives and rights of local people.
In today's era of globalization, we should pay attention to these marginalized regions, promote fairness and justice, and ensure that everyone enjoys freedom and dignity.
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