neocolonialism

/ˌnioʊkəˈloʊniəˌlɪzəm/

Use the political term neocolonialism to describe the use of capitalism and social pressures by a large country to control a smaller country.

The word neocolonialism basically means "a new kind of colonialism," and colonialism is when one country controls another, often using violence. This new kind of colonialism uses non-military ways of gaining control, mostly through economic means, and often makes use of the poorer country's resources in a way that leaves its people dependent on the richer country — and also ensures they'll remain poor.

Definitions of neocolonialism

1. noun

   control by a powerful country of its former colonies (or other less developed countries) by economic pressures
   type of:

   colonialism

   exploitation by a stronger country of a weaker one; the use of the weaker country's resources to strengthen and enrich the stronger country