Jan 24 – Norwegian Anthropologist Launches Gibraltar Study
Jesper Schildger, a young researcher from Norway’s most prestigious university in Oslo, has launched an anthropological study of Gibraltar.
Working independently, Mr. Schildger was nonetheless encouraged by Gibraltarian Dr. Andrew Canessa of Essex Univeristy, who heads the Oral History Project, as well as by staff at the University of Gibraltar, in undertaking a study on the question of identity. He is calling for people to come forward to contribute their experiences for his M.A. study.
An Equality Rights Group (ERG) spokesperson explained the study in greater depth: “Jesper contacted ERG to explain that there was a particular gap in the anthropological studies being undertaken around the question of identity in Gibraltar. Researchers pointed out that there was a need to look at how the Gibraltarian LGBT community constructs its sense of identity.”
Jesper himself described the precise aims of his research by saying he is interested in exploring how “Gibraltarian ethnic and national identity is communicated and perceived by Gibraltarian members of the LGBT community in different social contexts,” going on to ask: “How is the Gibraltar-Spanish border viewed and treated in these contexts, especially now with the current Brexit-debate as a political backdrop of space and place?”
A spokesperson continued: “ERG welcomes and values objective research into the development of Gibraltar’s community over time, and we are happy to assist Mr. Schildiger. We therefore encourage members of the wide LGBT community of Gibraltar to come forward to discreetly but in confidence provide him with the insights he needs in order to complete his study. He can be reached in any of three different ways: on Facebook under the name of Jesper Schildger; by email address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; and by phone on +47 90688296,” the statement ended.
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