Suggestions
Eva Isakovic
Director at Lab on Non-Democratic Politics
Professional Background
Eva Isakovic is a dedicated and accomplished scholar who has recently returned from an insightful year abroad as a Boren Scholar, focusing on international relations and the complexities of the Balkans. She is currently channeling her academic pursuits into an upcoming Fulbright research grant, where she will further her studies in Sarajevo, Bosnia, examining the lasting effects of conflict on nationalist support in the region. Eva's robust academic background in Economics and Balkan Studies, combined with her profound interest in applying quantitative methods to enhance democratization and foster ethnic reconciliation through thoughtful foreign policy, distinguishes her as a leading voice in her field.
Her career is characterized by her commitment to addressing human rights issues and promoting democratic values, particularly in the Balkans—a region rich with history and complexities. As the Director at the Lab on Non-Democratic Politics, Eva plays a pivotal role in shaping research and discussion around democratization practices and the political landscape of non-democratic societies. Her previous experience as an intern at YUCOM, the Lawyer's Committee for Human Rights, has provided her with hands-on exposure to advocacy and the intricacies of human rights law, further enriching her understanding of the socio-political fabric of the regions she studies.
Education and Achievements
Eva's academic journey is marked by a diverse and extensive educational portfolio. She earned an Arts Endorsed Diploma in Creative Writing from the Denver School of the Arts, where her passion for storytelling began to take shape. She then pursued her Bachelor's degree, majoring in Economics and Balkan Studies at the University of Southern California. Her commitment to mastering the languages and cultures of the Balkans led her to study Bosnian, Serbian, and Croatian Languages and Literatures at the University of Belgrade, where she gained an in-depth understanding of the region's multifaceted identity.
Moreover, Eva participated in the Oxford Consortium on Human Rights at the prestigious University of Oxford, where she further developed her analytical and research skills in the context of human rights. Her concurrent enrollment in Economics at the University of Colorado Denver underscores her strong foundation in economic principles that guide her analysis of regional policies.
Notable Contributions
Throughout her professional journey, Eva has actively contributed to various organizations that resonate with her mission to promote democracy and human rights. In her role as a Summer Fellow at the Oxford Consortium on Human Rights, she engaged in critical discussions that influence thought leadership and policy proposals on human rights issues. As the Balkan Special Advisor at the Global Women's Narratives Project, Eva empowered women by amplifying their voices and stories, recognizing the essential role that gender plays in conflicts and post-conflict societies.
Her tenure as a Project Assistant at Butler Snow LLP provided her with valuable insights into legal practices, enabling her to bridge her academic pursuits with practical applications that can enact change. Additionally, serving as a Validation Committee Member and intern at Wish of a Lifetime, she has reinforced her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Personal Interests and Future Goals
Eva Isakovic’s passion for the Balkans extends beyond her academic and professional endeavors. As she prepares for her research in Sarajevo, her blend of qualitative and quantitative methodological frameworks aims to uncover new insights into the nuances of post-conflict support for nationalism. She envisions her work contributing to the development of informed foreign policy strategies that encourage reconciliation and democratic principles in regions affected by prolonged conflicts.
Eva’s unique perspective as both a scholar and an active participant in human rights advocacy provides her with a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the Balkans. Through her research and future projects, she aspires to promote a more peaceful and democratic future for the region, while inspiring others to engage with the complexities of nationalism and conflict resolution.
Her website, evaisakovic.com, serves as a platform to share her research, insights, and updates on her academic journey, welcoming collaboration and discourse among peers and advocates of democracy. Eva is excited to contribute her knowledge and experience to foster a deeper understanding of Balkan politics and to inspire a new generation of thinkers and leaders.
Contact Information
For inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or to learn more about her work and research, Eva can be reach via email at eisakovi@usc.edu.