This week, I had the privilege of presenting at the REFLECT International Conference hosted by Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu. This year’s theme, “Fostering Cross-disciplinary Reflections to Bridge Societal Divides,” provided a dynamic platform for researchers from diverse fields to engage in meaningful discussions about today’s challenges. My presentation, titled Climate Change, Vulnerable Populations, and Human Security Risks in Romania’s Danube Delta, focused on my Fulbright-funded research in the Delta, including insights from my recent fieldwork at the Letea Sandbank.

Sharing My Research

My presentation explored the intricate relationship between climate change and human security in the Danube Delta, a region renowned for its biodiversity yet increasingly vulnerable to environmental shifts. Using a human security lens, I examined how rising sea levels, shifting precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events disrupt daily life for delta communities, particularly those dependent on fishing and natural resources for their livelihoods.

A significant focus was placed on three key areas of the Delta—Parcheș-Somova, Letea Sandbank, and Sfântu Gheorghe—each offering unique insights into the socio-economic and cultural impacts of climate change. For example, in Letea, residents shared how unpredictable weather and changing fish populations have destabilized traditional practices. Meanwhile, interviews in Sfântu Gheorghe revealed growing concerns about economic instability and food security, underscoring the need for adaptive strategies.

Engaging with Attendees

The audience’s response to my presentation was both energizing and thought-provoking. The questions and discussions that followed delved deeper into the complexities of human security in vulnerable ecosystems like the Danube Delta. Several attendees were particularly intrigued by how my research combines qualitative interviews with thematic analysis to capture the lived experiences of delta residents.

I also had the opportunity to discuss the importance of policy interventions tailored to local needs. The audience resonated with the idea that adaptive frameworks should not only address environmental challenges but also empower communities by preserving their cultural heritage and traditional livelihoods.

Lessons from the Letea Sandbank

One of the highlights of my presentation was sharing observations from my recent fieldwork in Letea and surrounding villages. The resilience of the communities I visited was striking—they are actively developing local strategies to cope with environmental pressures, such as adjusting fishing practices and exploring resource conservation methods. These stories of adaptation provided a powerful narrative that underscored the urgency of creating informed, community-centered policies.

A quote from one of my interviews in the Delta particularly resonated with the audience: “We used to know the seasons by heart, but now it feels like everything has shifted.” This sentiment encapsulates the profound uncertainty faced by delta communities and their determination to navigate an ever-changing environment.

A Collaborative Experience

Beyond presenting, the conference itself was a rewarding experience. I attended several sessions that offered valuable cross-disciplinary perspectives on how societal divides can be bridged in times of crisis. Engaging with fellow researchers opened my eyes to parallel challenges in other fields and regions, sparking ideas for potential collaborations.

Looking Ahead

This conference was an opportunity to share my research and a moment to reflect on its broader implications. The discussions and feedback reaffirmed the importance of integrating local voices into global conversations about climate adaptation. As I continue my fieldwork in December, I am more committed than ever to highlighting the resilience and adaptability of Delta communities, ensuring their stories inform policies that prioritize both environmental sustainability and human security.

Gratitude

I am deeply grateful to the organizers of the REFLECT International Conference for creating a space where research and dialogue thrive. It was an honor to contribute to this vibrant exchange of ideas, and I look forward to applying the insights gained in Sibiu to my ongoing work in the Danube Delta and beyond.