Marc Finaud, Member
Marc Finaud is a former French diplomat who served for 36 years, was seconded to the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), training diplomats and military officers. He is currently Senior Advisor at the GCSP and member of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy Foundation Council. During his career, he focused on arms control, disarmament, and nuclear policy. He has taught and published widely on these subjects.
Rashid Gabdulhakov — Member
Dr. Rashid Gabdulhakov is an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Media and Journalism Studies, University of Groningen. He teaches BA and MA courses on media and migration, social media, disinformation, and digital activism. His research focuses on digital vigilantism, resistance, and surveillance. He holds a PhD from Erasmus University Rotterdam, a master’s from the University of Oslo, and a BA from the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University.
Cholpon Orozobekova — President
Cholpon Orozobekova is a conflict analyst and team expert. She is the author of the book “Young Fighters and Terrorist Propaganda: A New Challenge.” She is the founder and Director of the Bulan Institute. Cholpon previously worked for the United Nations in Geneva and the European Broadcasting Union. She has published extensively on violent extremism and conflict resolution. She holds degrees from Swiss and Central Asian universities.
Samira Benz — Member
Samira Benz works with Violence Prevention Network USA. Previously, Samira worked with the Strong Cities Network. She served as a lead of the Counter-Extremism Program for Women without Borders. She coordinated the family counseling program in Berlin, where she worked with returnees and at-risk families. Samira holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and Islamic Studies from the Free University of Berlin and an MA in Terrorism and Political Violence from the University of St Andrews.
Koshoi Kyrgyzbek — Treasurer
Mr. Koshoi Kyrgyzbek is a designer and social media specialist. He has designed multiple advocacy and educational products for the Bulan Institute and other civil society organizations. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Journalism from the University of the Humanities in Bishkek.
Barno Anvar — Secretary
Barno Anvar — Member
Ms. Barno Anvar is an independent researcher and human rights advocate from Uzbekistan. Her work focuses on gender equality, political participation, and the rule of law in Central Asia. She holds an MA in Political Science and previously worked with several international organizations, including UN Women and OSCE. She contributes to regional publications and initiatives promoting peace and civil society.
Beytul Gorkem — Secretary
Ms. Beytul Gorkem is the Head of Operations and HR at the Bulan Institute. She has 20 years of experience in education and international development and currently coordinates the organization’s activities and financial operations. She holds a degree in Political Science from Ankara University. She previously worked with the European Union programs in Turkey and contributed to various educational and policy-oriented programs in Europe and Turkey.