The University of Miami Introduces the Eurasian Studies and Policy (ESP) Initiative
Coral Gables, FL — The University of Miami introduced the Eurasian Studies and Policy (ESP) Initiative, an interdisciplinary program dedicated to the study of political, economic, and security dynamics of Eurasia, with a focus on Armenia, Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Russia.
The Initiative brings together research, teaching, and public engagement to advance scholarship and inform policy. It fosters dialogue among U.S., Eurasian, and diaspora communities, providing a platform for thoughtful analysis of the region’s challenges.
Leadership
— Dr. Lilia Arakelyan is a political scientist, specializing in Eurasian politics, global security, and ethnopolitical conflict. She has served as a consultant for the United Nations Development Programme and the World Justice Project, and has taught at the University of Arizona, the University of Miami, Florida International University, and East Carolina University. At ESP, she co-leads academic and policy programs, strengthening research and international partnerships.
— Dr. Costantino Pischedda, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Miami, specializes in conflict dynamics, civil wars, counterinsurgency, and post-conflict governance. His previous experience includes work with the Peterson Institute for International Economics and the World Bank. At ESP, he co-leads academic and policy programs, contributing expertise in conflict resolution, regional security, and human rights.
Advisory Board: ESP is guided by a distinguished advisory board, including:
–Dr. Donna E. Shalala, Trustee Professor of Political Science and Health Policy at the University of Miami; former U.S. Representative, President of the University of Miami, and Secretary of Health and Human Services.
— Dr. Rajan Menon, Anne and Bernard Spitzer Professor Emeritus at City College of New York and Senior Research Scholar at Columbia University.
— Harut Sassounian, Publisher of The California Courier and President of the Armenia Artsakh Fund.
— Dr. Dana Shuqom, CEO of the Jordan Media Institute.
— Dr. Hanna Kassab, Associate Professor of Political Science and Security Studies at East Carolina University.
Since its founding, ESP has organized numerous conferences and events and produced policy briefs that have helped establish a robust academic and policy platform. The Initiative will continue to expand interdisciplinary collaboration, explore critical topics, and build partnerships that connect scholars, students, policymakers, and diaspora communities, creating a vibrant hub for Eurasian studies at the University of Miami.
Contact: For more information or to discuss support, contact: Diaset Cabrera, Development Officer, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Miami. Email: dcabrera@umiami.edu | Phone: 305-284-9986.
