Hawke-Rocard Medal awarded to scientist Clara Péron

This medal, which bears the names of Bob Hawke and Michel Rocard, is awarded in honour of the work accomplished by these two statesmen to preserve Antarctica and make it a space for peace and science.

It is the first time since 1989, when France and Australia established what would become the Madrid Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty, that France and Australia are awarding this joint medal for remarkable achievements in the protection of the Antarctic environment.

Clara Péron has made a significant contribution to a greater understanding of the ecosystems of the Southern Ocean, in her work on Antarctica’s marine ecology. Through her research on the spatial distribution of marine species and population dynamics, Péron, a marine biologist, has created valuable and reliable scientific tools for the sustainable management and protection of ecosystems in this region. Her research directly contributes to the collective effort so that national and international political decisions can be made based on the best science available.

As a member of the French delegation to the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources and the advisory council of the French Southern and Antarctic Territories, Clara Péron helps to shape research priorities and environmental protection efforts in the region. “You embody the science that takes action, finds solutions and offers protection," said Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.

In this tangible example of scientific diplomacy, Franco-Australian cooperation is wholly at work through a shared vision: a world where science serves the general interest and the collective capacity to address major global challenges.

Photo: Philémon Henry/MEAE