How can we interpret the increasing centralisation of political authority and decision-making in the 21st century, and can movements for autonomy provide an answer to this question? The concept of territorial autonomy has been a complex issue in modern politics, especially since the emergence of postwar nation-states in the 20th century. While it provided a useful framework for understanding the structure of the modern state and its legal systems, it has also been a convenient tool for governance, where calls for autonomy have often been subject to the shifting nature of power. In this presentation, I will draw on my personal involvement with autonomy movements in the region James Scott, Willem van Schendel, and Sanjib Baruah refer to as “Zomia,” to explore the challenges faced by much of the world today.

Sanjay Barbora studies agrarian change, social movements, wildlife conservation, human migration and urbanisation in the global south, especially in South Asia. Before coming to UCSC, he worked as a media development professional with Panos South Asia and as one of the founding faculty members of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Guwahati Campus. He reads Seamus Heaney’s poems when he is confused, and cook for friends and family when he is able.

Presented by the Center for Cultural Studies and co-sponsored by the Center for South Asian Studies and the Department of Anthropology Colloquium. This event is open to all students, faculty, staff, and members of the public consistent with University policy and state and federal law.

Spring 2026 COLLOQUIUM SERIES

THE CENTER FOR CULTURAL STUDIES hosts a weekly Wednesday colloquium featuring work-in-progress by faculty & visitors. We are pleased to announce our Spring 2026 Series. Sessions begin promptly at 12:15 PM and end at 1:30 PM (PST) in Humanities Building 1, Room 210.

Staff assistance is provided by The Humanities Institute.