I have a sociology / critical cultural studies background and my area of professional expertise (over thirty years experience) relates to the 'international development' agenda – in particular analysis of food injustice and the resulting outcomes of malnutrition (which can take many forms). Not surprisingly the agenda is dominated by an emphasis on technical and reductionist assessment, diagnosis and treatment rather than focusing on political dynamics and inequality. Recognition of the connection between the suffering of human and non-human animals is almost entirely absent from both the mainstream perspectives on global hunger and malnutrition as well as more progressive 'human rights' and justice focused perspectives on 'food and nutrition insecurity' and it is here that I am well placed to contribute to bringing about change.
My work as an independent consultant / advisor to the European Commission Directorate-General for International Partnerships (INTPA), for the past 15 years, means that I have a solid grasp of the 'international development' agenda, while maintaining a critical perspective. I have worked for major International NGOs, the United Nations and Government Departments as well as within Ministries in countries of the Global South.
In 2024, I am expecting to complete my PhD research with Edge Hill University - Centre for Human Animal Studies. The research uses 'critical animal discourse analysis', to explore the ways in which both dominant and more 'alternative' and 'progressive' discourses around the persistence of global hunger and malnutrition frame the significance of animals and animality
