Is It Colonialism When Europeans Retire in Cheaper Countries?
From the Ethicist:
'Colonialism,' historically, happened when a state took over another territory, typically by force or fiat. It's a story about domination backed by state power.
When individuals retire abroad, though, they settle with the host government's consent, not a cannon. Societies have the right to decide whom they admit, within moral and legal bounds. International law protects refugees fleeing persecution, and decent nations avoid unfair discrimination or the splitting up of families. Beyond that, controlling residency and citizenship is a core piece of national sovereignty.
What these Northern Europeans are doing isn't colonialism; it's migration with permission. Retirees chasing a lower cost of living are simply doing transnationally what many do locally — moving where their resources stretch further, like Bostonians heading to Florida for sun and savings.
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The Hill
9 minutes ago
- The Hill
US-EU trade deal wards off further escalation but will raise costs for companies, consumers
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Boston Globe
2 hours ago
- Boston Globe
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New York Post
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- New York Post
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