Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zijad Bećirović is the Director of the International Institute for Middle East and Balkan Studies (IFIMES- www.ifimes.org), based in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Since 2018, the institute has Special Consultative status with ECOSOC/UN and is also the publisher of the international scientific journal European Perspectives (www.europeanperspectives.org). 

Dr. Bećirović holds a degree in Economics, a Master’s degree in Communication Science, and a PhD in Economics. His research work focuses on intercultural management, intercultural communication, contemporary relations between the West and the Islamic world, Islam and Judaism, and Islamic law. He has also devoted his studies to examining various social aspects of the Middle East and the Balkans, international relations, and management.

In addition to publishing several scientific articles, Dr. Bećirović has received numerous awards and recognitions for his achievements. These include the Gold Medal from the Crans Montana Forum in Geneva (2012), the award for Best Manager and Institute in Southeast and Central Europe (2016), the Mostar Peace Connection award (2018), and the Award for Special Achievements from Life Learning Academia (2018). He serves as an Ambassador for the Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club in London, as well as an Ambassador of Knowledge.

His work and contributions to research and fostering intercultural dialogue have positioned him as a leading expert in the fields of intercultural communication and international relations.