The Grimshaw Review of International Affairs Vol. 2, No. 1
that persistently have and continue to systemically deny the Rohingya of their humanity and
rights.
Yet, the two theories need not be in opposition; on the contrary, they can complement each
other. While constructivism conveys the potential for mobilising transnational solidarity to
challenge state-centric norms, postcolonialism ensures this is not superficial, but rather
engages with the systemic and structural causes of the Rohingya’s marginalisation. When
combined, they call for a two-pronged approach: a global effort to shift norms toward
inclusivity and solidarity, alongside an uncompromising critique of the historical and
contemporary power imbalances that underpin the oppression of the Rohingya. As Manuel
Castells (2007, p. 246) argues, the digital age’s transformative potential lies in its ability to
facilitate decentralised networks that empower social movements to confront institutional
power on their own terms.
For the Rohingya, this means ensuring digital spaces do not become forums for external
actors to promote self-interested agendas under the veneer of solidarity, but instead become a
platform for the Rohingya to reclaim their own stories and assert their dignity – a genuine
expression of their humanity and rightful place in the world. As such, it is only by
incorporating both the power of narrative and critique of power itself that a truly just and
inclusive solution for the Rohingya can be envisioned – one which not only changes the way
the world sees them, but also transforms and the conditions that have historically
marginalised them.
8. Concluding Discussion
The ongoing experience of statelessness and systemic persecution faced by the Rohingya
reveals the vulnerability of populations whose rights are overlooked and disregarded by those
in positions of power. Despite the ongoing global focus on humanitarian relief efforts – an
undeniably necessary approach – this response has proven insufficient in addressing the
underlying structural issues that perpetuate the Rohingya’s marginalisation. This article has
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