My research focuses on the intersection of sustainable development, international political economy, and peace and conflict studies. I am particularly interested in the governance of natural resources and land, climate change adaptation and mitigation, land and resource conflicts, food security, and the role of traditional political institutions in shaping local development. My geographic focus includes Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa.

Core questions driving my work are:

• What type of land use and resource extraction may strengthen local livelihoods and support climate mitigation?
• What drives land use change in the Global South, and what are its socio-environmental and political consequences?
• What are the primary determinants of resource conflicts, and how can they be addressed to prevent intrastate violence?
• What is the role of traditional political institutions and land tenure in promoting climate adaptation and enhancing the resilience of socio-ecological systems?
• How is women’s empowerment linked to local sustainable development?
• How can farming and food systems be transformed to ensure nutritional security in the face of climate change?

Please explore the submenus under the “Research” section for more details on my past and ongoing research.