Nature, state and conservation in the Danube Delta

The Danube Delta's relationship with state conservation efforts has evolved significantly, marked by a historical disconnect between policy and practice. While Romania's state discourse on nature conservation has shifted since the early 20th century—reflecting global conservation movements—the implementation on the ground remained limited during socialism. Ethnographic research reveals how local fishermen perceived and interacted with state authority, critiquing or accommodating its presence. This study historicizes these dynamics through interviews, showing that while scientific work on conservation flourished, actual conservation measures were rarely enforced. The findings underscore the tension between theoretical discourse and practical action in environmental governance.

Dorondel, S., & Mitroi *, V. (2017). Nature, state and conservation in the Danube Delta. The Nature State, 194–212. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315195636-11