EXPLAINING THE “WESTSPLAINERS”: CAN A WESTERN SCHOLAR BE AN EXPERT ON CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE?

Abstract

Abstract: Following the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the terms “Westsplaining” and “Westsplainer” gained momentum. They are used as a reaction to commentaries that are delivered by established Western intellectuals who lack proper knowledge of the region. Many people from Central and Eastern Europe, as well as some of their Western colleagues, tend to find such commentaries not only useless but also harmful. Far from being a purely theoretical academic contemplation, this type of commentary uses influential Western media forums to provide policy advice that is often based on false assumptions and projections. At the same time, some Westerners may feel wronged here, as the term “Westsplaining” could sound as a strong attempt to deny them the right to participate in expert debate based solely on their personal background. Without claiming a monopoly on the definition, the author attempts to explain why the term makes sense and how it can be used critically without being reduced to a vulgar ad hominem.
Keywords: Belarus, Central and Eastern Europe, Knowledge Production, Russia, Ukraine, Westsplaining