Geopolitics? Why it's trending among progressives

A scientific conference in Paris is challenging long-held perceptions of geopolitics, seeking to reclaim the discipline for progressive thought. The international colloquium, titled "Does French Geopolitics Exist?", brings together scholars to explore the field's identity and relevance.

Gilles Gressani and Florian Louis, from the journal "le Grand Continent," are leading the charge against the persistent suspicion that geopolitics is inherently linked to imperialistic ideologies, particularly the Nazi regime. They argue for a "critical and anti-imperial" geopolitics, distinct from its problematic historical associations.

The conference aims to demonstrate that geopolitics can be a valuable tool for understanding contemporary global dynamics from a progressive standpoint. By contesting its negative historical baggage, the organizers hope to establish geopolitics as a legitimate and important area of academic inquiry for those focused on international relations and social justice.

This initiative reflects a broader effort within academic circles to re-evaluate and redefine disciplines that have been tainted by controversial historical applications. The goal is to foster a more nuanced and constructive engagement with the study of global power and influence.