Lucien Thabourey

Please tell us about your research project.
I am a visiting PhD candidate from Sciences Po Paris, affiliated with the Centre for European Studies and Comparative Politics (CEE).
Under the supervision of Florence Faucher, my research examines the relationships between environmental movements and the State in France and the United Kingdom. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, I question the extent to which recent climate protests and civil disobedience actions have led environmental movements to bring the “State back in” their targets, frames and collective representations.
Prior to my doctoral studies, I have obtained an MA in Comparative Politics at Sciences Po Paris and wrote my master's dissertation on Extinction Rebellion.
 

Could you please tell us a bit more about your scholarship/exchange programme?
I have been given the great opportunity to spend two terms in Oxford as a visiting PhD Scholar at the Department of Sociology as part of the OxPo exchange scheme which brings together the University of Oxford, Sciences Po Paris and the MFO.
 

First impressions of Oxford/the University?
Oxford is a perfect city for anyone doing a PhD dissertation on environmental movements. On the one hand, it provides a very fruitful environment, both in terms of research and quality of life, with enjoyable green spaces offering the fresh air that libraries do not provide. On the other hand, the city is among ones of the most active for environmental activism.