Miroslav Zafirov

Miroslav Zafirov is an Associate Professor at the New Bulgarian University's Mediterranean and Oriental Studies Department, with a focus on Middle Eastern political thought and modern history. He combines academic work with diplomatic service at Bulgaria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Middle East and North Africa department) since 2009.

• St. Petersburg State University BA (Middle East History, Oriental Studies)
• New Bulgarian University MA (Hebrew Studies, 2005)

Research spans Shi'a Islam, Islamic mystical traditions, Ottoman religious institutions, and Balkan migration studies. Publications analyze topics like:

• Shi'a political dynamics
• Iranian elections
• Alevi-Bektashi communities
• Islamic terrorism frameworks
• Madrasa historical roles
• Religious minorities in Israel

Received

• British Council in BiH award (2001)
• Dean's Award for Best Essay at AUBG

Active in academic presentations including

• Guest lectures at American University of Kuwait
• Training simulations at Galatasaray University
• Model United Nations participation