Alessandra Giolo

My research examines forests as essential socio-ecological infrastructures that support climate resilience, energy security, biodiversity, and rural development in the Baltic–Nordic region. Using a combined Water–Energy–Food–Forest Nexus and Multi‑Level Governance approach, I analyze how EU climate and sustainability policies align with national forest governance in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and Finland. This work draws on policy and frame analysis, semi‑structured interviews, and direct participation in Forest Europe negotiations.

My work focuses on understanding why forests—despite their strategic importance—remain weakly integrated into European climate‑security frameworks. I investigate stakeholder perspectives on the European Green Deal, the challenges of cross-sectoral coordination, and how geopolitical shifts affect forest-based energy and resource systems. Through observation of Forest Europe's 2024–2025 cycle, I also study how knowledge, authority, and legitimacy shape decision‑making in multilateral forest governance.

Ultimately, my research contributes to strengthening policy coherence by demonstrating how forests underpin climate resilience, energy independence, and socio-environmental stability. By clarifying the links between forest governance and climate‑security objectives, my work aims to support more integrated, evidence‑based strategies that can better prepare Europe for ongoing geopolitical and climatic challenges.