Graduate, Moscow State Institute of International Relations; studied at the University of Maryland and the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, US. Has served as: Bulgaria's Secretary of State for European Integration and Minister of Foreign Affairs a.i; Diplomat, Bulgarian Permanent Mission to the United Nations; Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to France and Monaco; Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. Participated in the drafting of Bulgaria's new Constitution, which contributed to the country's accession to the European Union. Founder and Chairperson, European Policy Forum; worked to overcome divisions in Europe and promote the values of dialogue, diversity, human dignity and rights. 2009, elected Director-General, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization; first woman to head the Organization. Engaged in international efforts to advance education for all, gender equality, human rights, cultural dialogue and scientific cooperation; and a global advocate for safety of journalists and freedom of expression.