I am Khayyam Rzazade, a political scientist, PhD Research Fellow, Yoga instructor, and athlete with a passion for continuous learning and exploration. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Security and Strategic Studies at the University of Genoa and Science Po Paris as a part of the IDEoPOP project, funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. My research focuses on how populist actors influence foreign and defense policy changes in Europe, with a comparative study of Italy, Spain, and France. My academic background lies in EU foreign and security policy, international relations, and political analysis.

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I hold an Advance Master of Art in EU International Relations and Diplomacy from the College of Europe (Bruges Campus), where I was awarded an ENP full scholarship. My thesis, Collective Securitization of Russia in the EU, explored how the EU collectively perceives Russia as a security threat. Before that, I completed a Master’s degree in Comparative International Relations at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, with an Erasmus+ exchange at Belarusian State University in Minsk. To gain hand on practical insights into diplomacy, I  was trained at the Warsaw-based European Academy of Diplomacy. My academic journey began at Baku State University, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Economics.

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Throughout my career, I have combined teaching, research, and professional experience. I worked as a visiting/adjunct lecturer at Baku State University, teaching Political Theory, Political Analysis, and Critical Thinking to over 200 students. My time at the European Parliament, assisting former MEP Frank Schwalba-Hoth, gave me first-hand experience in policy research, legislative analysis, and civil society engagement. I also interned at the National Parliament of Azerbaijan, where I focused on foreign and interparliamentary relations.

Beyond academia, I have a deep commitment to yoga and sports. After intensive training in Rishikesh, India, I became a yoga instructor, specializing in Yoga Philosophy, Hatha, Ashtanga Vinyasa, and Iyengar Yoga. I have taught in Vietnam, Morocco, Azerbaijan, and online, helping students deepen their practice. In addition to yoga, I am a competitive Ultimate Frisbee player and captain of Vortex Ultimate Frisbee Club in Azerbaijan.

I am also the founder of SiWord, an intellectual game that challenges players with a mix of knowledge, logic, and wordplay. My interests span from research and education to sports and personal growth, and this website serves as a platform to share my journey, insights, and projects with the world.