[Call for Doctoral Contract] Digital Vigilantism in France in a Comparative Perspective

Digital Vigilantism in France in a Comparative Perspective

Center for International Studies (CERI) at Sciences Po and FRANJU (ANR)

Project background

This research project consists in a sociological survey of self-proclaimed vigilantes in both metropolitan and overseas France. While violent mobilizations in the French West Indies, Mayotte or New Caledonia are part of singular histories, they revolve around causes similar to those that galvanize aspiring vigilantes in metropolitan France. Three main themes stand out: the defense of property (in both urban and rural areas), the fight against immigration (often overlapping with the defense of autochthony) and, lastly, moral and sexual policing (particularly mobilizations against pedocriminality). 

On the theoretical level, this project brings together the analysis of policing, the sociology of law, and the study of mobilizations. From a methodological perspective, we propose to study self-proclaimed vigilantes through their statements, their practices, and the controversies they generate. Using a qualitative approach, the research will be organized around three complementary methods: digital monitoring, an analysis of legal proceedings, and fieldwork trips (primarily devoted to conducting interviews with vigilantes, their audiences, and their opponents). 

Sensitivity to vigilante statements, punitive practices, and the reactions they provoke in society ultimately leads us to grasp two issues. The first concerns the rewards of vigilantism. Beyond the claim to work for the common good, what benefits do vigilantes expect from their activity? The second issue concerns the relationships between those who right wrongs and law enforcement agencies. While vigilantism is generally associated with a critique of state performance, relationships with law enforcement officials vary significantly from one case to another, ranging from confrontation to collaboration, or even co-optation. Questioning these relative margins of maneuver leads to consider the possibility of a differential management of vigilante illegalities, in relation to the causes defended and the social characteristics of vigilantes.

Expected thesis topic

The thesis will focus on digital vigilantism in France, defined as the use of digital technologies by non-institutional actors to act as guardians of justice.

In particular, it will:

• analyse the role of the attention economy in the emergence of vigilante vocations
• study the rewards (visibility, influence, economic or political gains)
• document punitive practices, discourses and controversies
• incorporate a comparative dimension (between countries or between types of vigilantism)
• use an ethnographic methodology, both online and offline

Eligibility requirements

Candidates must:

• hold a Master's degree in political science, sociology, anthropology or a related discipline
• have solid skills in:
  • digital ethnography
  • field observation
  • conducting interviews
• be fluent in French and English
• ideally have experience in international comparison

The contract will begin in September 2026.

Contract terms

• Duration: 3 years
• Period: 1 September 2026 → 1 September 2029
• Remuneration: approximately €2,390 gross per month
• The doctoral student will be enrolled at the Sciences Po Research School and attached to the CERI.

Application

Applications must be submitted online, in accordance with the admission requirements and calendar of the Sciences Po Research School.

Applications may be submitted in English or French.

More information about doctoral admissions to the Research School.

After submitting your application to the PhD programme on the admissions platform, please indicate your application for the doctoral contract by completing the form below.

The application must include:

• a cover letter
• a research proposal (maximum 5,000 words) explaining your approach to the subject
• a CV
• proof of identity
• a copy of your Master's degree
• a PDF version of your Master's thesis (even if not yet defended)

It is essential to indicate on the form that you are applying for FRANJU (ANR) funding.

Timetable

Contact

For any questions regarding the project: Gilles Favarel-Garrigues.

And application form: ed.direction@sciencespo.fr.