Climares Blog

What happens when the documents that prove you are a legitimate researcher in one place make you look suspicious in another? In insecure and unstable settings, questions of identity, trust and access can quickly become part of the research itself. This is particularly relevant for my research on climate change and local communities, which takes place in environments marked by insecurity and instability (Mena R, Hilhorst D 2022; Ferguson, P. 2019; Mena, R. 2018). Whereas a researcher is never a simple observer but always takes part in the research scene, this is even more poignant in contexts of insecurity and instability. Military constraints, mistrust, power relations and ethical dilemmas become part of the research process itself and impact on the way in which researchers (can) position themselves and gain access.

A socio-legal perspective on climate resilience can help to get a better understanding of the role of state and non-state actors, policies and legal frameworks in everyday practices of resilience. This blog introduces the socio-legal perspective, presents legal pluralism as a key concept, and suggests some questions for further exploration.

This blog recounts the experience of a researcher whose stay in Morocco with the Climares project was much more than an academic experience. From the moment he arrived, solidarity and kindness laid the foundations for a close-knit community. Challenges, such as the language barrier and the demands of the courses, were overcome through mutual aid, patience and support. Shared moments of discussion, communal meals and simple rituals strengthened cohesion and a sense of belonging. Even beyond physical presence, the bonds endured, illustrating that Climares not only trained minds, but also wove hearts together, creating a multidisciplinary family based on trust, solidarity and listening.