Baku conference on neocolonialism launches global Virtual Museum documenting colonial impact

The Baku Initiative Group hosted an international conference in Azerbaijan’s capital under the title “Neocolonialism and Global Inequality,” bringing together political movements from different parts of the world that said they were still confronting both the legacy and modern forms of colonial rule

For the first time, anthropologists and psychotherapists working directly with local communities in colonial territories also took part. Together with researchers and experts, they systematically documented the psychological trauma and social consequences experienced by communities affected by colonial systems.

These materials were incorporated into what organisers described as the first global Virtual Museum dedicated to colonialism — a platform intended to connect territories located thousands of kilometres apart but sharing a common historical fate.

Organisers said the initiative was designed not only to preserve collective memory, but also to integrate documented injustices into international legal and political discourse, including engagement with relevant UN bodies such as the C-24 Committee and the Human Rights Council.

At the conference, participants described how neocolonial structures continued to affect daily life — shaping cultural identity, limiting self-determination and leaving long-term psychological consequences.

They also emphasised the importance of the Virtual Museum as a tool to amplify voices that had long been marginalised, ensuring personal testimonies became part of a recognised international record.

According to organisers, the collected materials were intended to serve as a transparent and reliable source of information for international experts, institutions and judicial bodies.

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News Baku Initiative Group Politics “Neocolonialism and Global Inequality” History