Transnational Terrorism and International Relations

Exploring Postcolonial Interventions in the Case of Boko Haram

Abstract

This paper reproduces a Postcolonial critique of mainstream International Relations-theory by emphasising the ontological and epistemological fallacies, as well as historical omissions that guard it’s Eurocentric and racist ontology. With this critique in mind, a rough illustration of the complex situation in Nigeria, concerning Boko Haram, follows that highlights the group’s violent turn, socio-economic structures conducive to the recruitment of humans, and transnational discursive interferences. Being aware of the intrinsic connection between culture and imperialism, articulated by Edward Said, the present article posits that mainstream International Relations-theory is not apt to analyse representations of power, crisis that are transnational in character or involve violent non-state actors.