Malo de La Blanchardière

Please tell us about your research project.
I am a third-year PhD candidate in Modern History at Paris-Saclay University and the University of Geneva, working under the joint supervision of Prof. Anaïs Fléchet and Prof. Ludovic Tournès. My research explores the relationship between popular music and humanitarian aid, from the 1971 Concert for Bangladesh, organised by former Beatle George Harrison, to the Live 8 concerts in 2005. I aim to provide a deeper understanding of charity rock as a historical phenomenon and to assess its impact on the music industry, humanitarian aid, and the diplomatic sphere.

Could you please tell us a bit more about your scholarship/exchange programme?
I was awarded the “scholarship of the month,” a one-month research grant from the Maison Française d’Oxford. This support has given me the opportunity to access and consult important archives from various sources, including the Oxfam collection held at the University of Oxford’s Weston Library. I am deeply grateful to the MFO for making this invaluable work possible.

First impressions of Oxford/the University?
Oxford is a magnificent and inspiring city, where the University’s remarkable historical heritage, splendid parks, and peaceful atmosphere create an ideal environment for study. The Bodleian Libraries provide outstanding resources that have significantly advanced my research, making my time here both productive and enriching. The Maison Française d’Oxford is ideally located in the city and offers every amenity.