Ivan Rumenov Byanov

Ivan Rumenov Byanov is an Associate Professor at the Department of Economic Theory and International Economic Relations within the Faculty of Economics at the University of Veliko Tarnovo "St. Cyril and St. Methodius" in Bulgaria. With extensive research experience in agricultural economics and European Union policy implementation, particularly the Common Agricultural Policy, he has established himself as a leading expert on rural development issues in Bulgaria and the wider European context.

Dr. Byanov's research primarily focuses on the economic aspects of agricultural policy implementation, rural development strategies, and digital transformation in rural areas. His work examines how EU policies, particularly the Common Agricultural Policy, impact Bulgarian agriculture and rural communities, with special attention to regional disparities and development opportunities. He has developed innovative assessment methodologies for evaluating rural areas and has contributed significantly to understanding the dynamics of agrarian structure in Bulgaria following EU accession. His methodological contributions include the E-SMART assessment tool for rural areas, which has been applied in the Veliko Tarnovo region as a case study.

His recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on the digitalization of rural areas, the implementation of strategic plans under the Common Agricultural Policy, and the development of financial-economic literacy in rural communities. His research demonstrates a consistent focus on practical applications of economic theory to address real-world challenges facing Bulgarian agriculture and rural regions, with particular attention to the Veliko Tarnovo region as a case study. The interdisciplinary nature of his work bridges agricultural economics, policy analysis, and regional development studies.

Dr. Byanov actively leads and participates in multiple research projects focused on rural development, including "Digital and ecological solutions to support the development of rural areas in Bulgaria" and "Financial-economic literacy and competencies of the population in rural areas." These projects reflect his commitment to translating research into practical tools and policy recommendations for improving rural development outcomes in Bulgaria. He collaborates with interdisciplinary teams of researchers from economics and social sciences disciplines, working to develop innovative solutions for rural challenges in the context of EU membership and digital transformation.