Dr Claire Galloni d’Istria has recently completed her PhD thesis in Anthropology and Sociology of Development under the supervision of Professor Isabelle Schulte-Tenckhoff. She presents her research, entitled “Qui a peur du ‘grand méchant loup’? À propos des représentations du loup dans les Alpes franco-suisses”.

With a mixed education in Natural Sciences (Master, University of Geneva) and in Anthropology and Sociology of Development (Master and PhD, Graduate Institute), I work on nature conservation and sustainable development. I have experience in project implementation, and in providing technical and strategic advice to the UN (UNITAR and UNDP), the European Commission and NGOs.

I concluded my PhD at the Graduate Institute in September 2016. Based on an analysis of relevant international and European policies, and on an ethnographic study, my PhD research focuses on the underlying motives and mechanisms of the socio-economic and political conflicts related to wildlife protection in Western Europe.

An in-depth case study of the gradual reestablishment of the wolf in the Western Alps (Haute-Savoie and Valais) investigates our relationships with (symbolic) animals and nature, based on predation and protection, in terms of dependency and co-dependency. Its sheds a new light on what is really at stake for the “people of the mountains” and society, and formulates several recommendations designed to lead to a sustainable implementation of related policies.

I will remember the perseverance it takes to conclude a PhD and the importance of receiving clear and strong guidance throughout the process. The Graduate Institute provided me with the best environment possible to follow through with my research.

Full citation of the thesis: Galloni d’Istria, Claire. “Qui a peur du ‘grand méchant loup’? À propos des représentations du loup dans les Alpes franco-suisses”. PhD thesis, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, 2016.