Prof. Kostadinova is a Political Scientist specializing in political institutions in Bulgaria, and at the European Union level. The main focus of her research includes political parties and their rhetoric, government policies, role of media in the political process, and inter-institutional relations within the European Union. Prof. Kostadinova provides expertise on how government actors and policies impact individual rights, including those of marginalized groups.
Ethnic discrimination or persecution, Gender-based violence/domestic violence, LGBTQ, Likelihood of destitution or homelessness, Political persecution, Religious discrimination or persecution, Government/state actor persecution, Risk of retaliation
One of my specializations is on political parties/institutions in Bulgaria, including their pre-election rhetoric and promises, and post-election policy actions. The state's capture by actors associated with criminal activities, as well as actors sponsored by the Russian Federation, are especially relevant to developments that undermine minority rights, and individual liberties, including for women, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized groups. I follow Bulgaria's political developments very closely, including issues related to minorities in the country. Additionally, I specialize in the institutions of the European Union, including but not limited to the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Office of the European Ombudsman. I am able to provide expert opinions on EU-level developments, including those related to refugee policy, and protections of individuals.
I have written three expert reports, and testified in court for one of these cases, related to Bulgarian nationals who overstayed their US visas. All cases included members of minority groups, who were persecuted by criminal organizations in Bulgaria, and faced retaliation if deported.