Jethro Norman

Primary research areas

Primarily an ethnographer, Jethro is concerned with bringing anthropological insights to bear on questions of international relations and political science. Broadly, he researches humanitarianism, security, and development in conflict and post-conflict zones, and has done fieldwork in Somalia, Somaliland, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan and Ukraine.

His previous research has offered critical insights into the spaces and dynamics of international intervention. He has conducted long term research on the afterlives of military personnel, including private military and security (PMSC) contractors and foreign war volunteers. His research on humanitarianism and development extends beyond traditional narratives and actors, including diaspora and community driven aid and development.

Current research

Jethro’s current research broadly covers transnational politics, conflict and development in Somalia and Somaliland, with a particular focus on the role of the Somali diaspora. He is particularly interested in alternative perspectives on humanitarianism, the political economy of aid contracts, humanitarian security apparatuses and competing humanitarian rationalities.

Jethro is also researching the implications of technology and digital media – particularly the now ubiquitous smartphone - in transforming the character of conflict, crisis response, and aid.

Projects

Diaspora Humanitarianism in Complex Crises (DHUM) 

Jethro is currently a postdoc on the Diaspora Humanitarianism in Complex Crises (DHUM) programme, which explores how Somali diaspora groups mobilize, channel and deliver assistance to Somalia during complex humanitarian crises. His fieldwork focuses on the secessionist state of Somaliland, and forms part of a broader collaborative effort at multi-sited and simultaneous fieldwork that connects researchers in Kenya, Somalia, and Europe.