Executive Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict: What Participants Say

25 March 2025

Stoyan Karastoyanov, a chief expert at the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Bulgaria, enrolled in our online Executive Master of Advanced Studies, tells about the programme and what it brings to his career.

Could you tell us about your background and your current role?

I have been working at the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Bulgaria for more than a decade and currently serve as a chief expert in the Defence Policy and Planning Directorate. My work focuses on disarmament, international humanitarian law, and arms control. Over the years, I have represented Bulgaria in various international forums, most notably the Group of Governmental Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (GGE LAWS). I have also coordinated the destruction of Bulgaria’s cluster munitions stockpiles, gaining significant experience and building a valuable network in the international disarmament community.

What motivated you to join this programme?

I joined the Executive Master – MAS in International Law in Armed Conflict at the Geneva Academy to deepen my expertise in international humanitarian law and arms control. Representing Bulgaria at international meetings and discussions on disarmament and international humanitarian law—including those on lethal autonomous weapons systems and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas—has sparked my interest in better understanding the legal frameworks governing armed conflicts.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the Katzarovi Fund for their generous scholarship, which made this educational opportunity possible. Without their financial support, I would not have been able to pursue the programme. Their commitment to empowering students from Bulgaria, like myself, has allowed me to continue developing my career and expanding my knowledge in a field that is vital both for my professional growth and for my contributions to international humanitarian law.

How was your experience with the professors?

My experience with the professors and teaching assistants at the Geneva Academy has been outstanding. They bring a wealth of expertise and real-world experience to the classroom, and I truly appreciated their understanding of the balance we, as students, must maintain between work and studies.

I was able to attend roughly 90% of the online sessions live, which was incredibly valuable. It gave me plenty of opportunities to engage directly with professors and teaching assistants. Their willingness to interact and provide feedback made the learning experience far more engaging and meaningful. The professors fostered an environment where discussions were not only encouraged but enriched by their practical insights and diverse perspectives.

Interestingly, I did not have a particular interest in human rights initially, but after taking the International Human Rights Law (IHRL) courses, I developed a real appreciation for the subject. Thanks to the dedication and passion of my IHRL professors, it became one of my favourite topics. They helped me see the profound impact of human rights law on global conflict resolution and peacebuilding, something I had not fully realised before.

How did you balance the programme with your professional life?

Balancing the programme with my professional responsibilities was challenging, but I was fortunate to have incredible support from my director and colleagues at the Ministry of Defence. My director was very understanding of my academic commitments and even provided me with a spare room to use for online classes, ensuring I had a quiet and focused environment. This made a huge difference, allowing me to participate in live sessions without distractions.

Additionally, Bulgarian legislation provides flexibility for employees who are studying. Under the law, I was entitled to 25 additional days off per academic year for study purposes, as well as 30 days for thesis writing. This allowed me to take time off when needed to attend intensive sessions, focus on exams, and work on my research—without compromising my professional duties.

The combination of strong institutional support, a flexible work environment, and these legal provisions helped me manage my time effectively and successfully balance my job with the demands of the programme.

How has it contributed to your career?

The programme has had a significant impact on my career. It has deepened my understanding of international humanitarian law (IHL) and given me the knowledge to engage more effectively in international disarmament discussions, particularly in the Group of Governmental Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems.

This improved understanding has enabled me to write better, more informed statements that reflect a stronger grasp of IHL, disarmament law, and the broader ethical and legal implications of artificial intelligence and autonomy in warfare. The knowledge and skills I gained through the programme have not only strengthened my contributions at meetings but have also allowed me to present Bulgaria’s position more confidently and with greater clarity.