Nathalie Raunet

Nathalie Raunet serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of African Studies and Anthropology at the University of Birmingham. Her interdisciplinary scholarship integrates African Studies, History, and Anthropology to investigate West African political dynamics, with a particular emphasis on border regions between Ghana and Togo.

Her academic journey includes:

• BA and MA in English Literature and Civilisation from Paris X, France
• MA in Political Science from Sciences Po Toulouse
• MSc in Migration Studies from the University of Oxford
• PhD in African Studies and Anthropology from the University of Birmingham

Raunet's research critically examines belonging, citizenship, authoritarianism, and transnationalism through the lens of borderland communities. Her work reveals how political membership is contested across multiple scales—from local chieftaincies to transnational diasporas—and how states deploy legitimation strategies against opposition abroad. Recent projects analyze electoral practices in border zones and the protection of marginalized groups under customary and state laws.

Her publication trajectory (2016-2025) shows a deepening focus on the Ghana-Togo borderlands, evolving from studies of mobility and elections to transnational authoritarianism and gender-based violence. Key themes include state-society relations, the fluidity of borders, and the interplay between local customs and national legislation in shaping political identities.

Although specific advising records and grant details are not listed, Raunet's role as Assistant Professor involves teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses on African politics, cultures, and development, indicating active mentorship within her academic community.