Decolonization of the Third World

In Jackson's article on decolonization, he writes that the many of the non-European colonies were not decolonized as a result of a declaration of self-determination, as the majority of the world was, because these countries (specifically the third world colonies) were 'inhabited by peoples unable to stand under the strenuous conditions of the modern world.' While we can agree that life was very different for individuals living in these countries, is it not fair to say that leaders shall emerge when leadership is necessary? It was understood that these colonies, if left to define and devise their own government, would divide themselves into "400 or 500 different countries" versus the 40-50 that they are today. The subsequent global declaration of decolonization seems to stand in stark contrast.. simply as the UN and the international community came to realize that colonization was wrong in it's nature, and that the colonized people could not perceive nor exercise sovereign freedom unless the strings of rule were cut, whether it be across oceans or invisible borders. However, was this 'realization' truly that, or simply a vested interest of the world's powers to no longer support these countries/be responsible for their evolution and any crimes committed by those peoples. The readiness of the various third world countries we speak of is not the issue, but it is the question of what individuals were prepared to assume power and leadership when they gain the title of a sovereign state. The international community played a small part in this unfolding, and can subsequently be held responsible for the eventual breakdown and relentless persecution and violation of human rights in these countries that we continue to witness in the present day.