Short abstract:

This proposal offers a panoramic view of theoretical models of technology decolonization; and debates methods, tensions, and opportunities in co-creating and co-developing a framework for decolonizing transformation in non-Western and Southern innovation and technology.

Long abstract:

Value-centered and context-driven technologies show that innovation ecosystems (Granstrand, Holgersson, 2020) have the power to create a space where pluriversal (Escobar, 2017) worldviews can converge and co-create a sustainable future, co-developing responsive solutions with social assemblages (Deleuze, Guattari, 1987). The notion of technological development and success still seems to be retained by Europe and North America, where Southern geographies’ marginalization is supported by power structures seeking to maintain historical dominance (such as the colonial legacy). When Post-coloniality (Mignolo, 2007) is entangled with Science and Technology Studies (STS), it opens a realm to comprehend the feasibility of decolonizing digital technology and shaping a future digital landscape where Northern knowledge is situated and positioned (Haraway, 1988) and Southern populations can enjoy digital fairness. Naturally, to accomplish such an ambitious milestone, frameworks across many disciplines have emerged, covering a myriad of thematic approaches, and this proposal will offer a panoramic view of the existing theoretical models. Additionally, this paper will debate the possibility of a framework for decolonizing transformation in non-Western and Southern innovation and technology - and the tensions that emerge from (i) data collection and extrativism practices versus the consumption of digital goods, (ii) tailoring of systems and algorithms versus their meaningful application among societies, and (iii) the suppression of cultural and linguistic diversity versus shared and purposive prosperity. As a result, it is expected that by addressing the tensions, boundaries, and opportunities within technology decolonization frameworks, this panel can offer insights to pave the way toward Southern digital emancipation.