US-China technological hegemony: Analyzing the digital colonialism in South Asia

Abstract

The technology war between the United States and China marks a significant trend in the 21st century, characterized by intense strategic and economic rivalry. This competition is explored through the lens of U.S. technological hegemony and China’s Digital Silk Road initiative in South-Eastern Asia. As two global superpowers, the United States and China present contrasting models—open, democratic digital platforms versus centralized infrastructure and rapid technological expansion. This paper delves into how South Asia can attract foreign investments while safeguarding its sovereignty. It highlights the implications of this rivalry on digital governance, economic growth, and regional collaboration. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of developing resilient policies that promote local innovation and protect against external influences. However, this rivalry plays out against the context of other long standing global issues such as social and economic inequality, environmental degradation and political instability. These ongoing issues affect the lives of people worldwide and thus add a layer of complexity to technological and geopolitical dynamics. Therefore, when navigating the U.S.-China tech war, South Asian nations have to make sure they are attracting investments without having to foster sovereignty and also address the other global challenges.