Alexandre Juster

Alexandre Juster is an ethnolinguist: he studies societies through their languages. A specialist in the Pacific Islands—from Easter Island to New Zealand, including French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Hawaii, and Vanuatu—he works on taboos, social secrets, oral literature, and the age-old ties between peoples and nature. He has learned and speaks several Oceanic languages.

Recognized as one of the leading specialists on the Pacific, he is regularly invited by French and international media outlets to shed light on the cultural, historical, and geopolitical issues of the region.

Dividing his time between research and public outreach, he has taught Polynesian history and civilization, taken part in conferences—including at the Quai Branly Museum—and advised French and American film productions as well as various high-level public administrations: prefectures, ministries, the Presidency of the Republic, and the UN Ocean Summit.

In his lectures, he sees himself as a storyteller and cultural bridge-builder, favouring a lively, dynamic approach far removed from a strictly academic framework. Committed to making Pacific cultures accessible, he writes books, produces documentaries, and speaks at tourism-sector events. A passionate diver, he maintains that the ocean connects peoples more than it separates them.

Languages spoken: French, English, Tahitian, Bislama, Polynesian languages

 

Photo credit: ARR