Our Mission
Our mission is to promote education, freedom, democratic governance, sustainable development, and peace in Europe and around the world by connecting experts through the IRES Expert Network and supporting open science, evidence-based policy, and public debate. We support learning through training programs, courses, and schools; organize lectures and conferences; and publish, translate, and disseminate scientific and professional literature.
Vision
Our vision is to strengthen democratic institutions, support education, and promote free markets, fundamental freedoms, social inclusion, and resilience through European and global collaboration and interdisciplinary research. We also aim to foster sustainable development and peace. By combining academic excellence with practical relevance, IRES is committed to shaping a more informed and equitable democratic future for Europe and the world.
The Institute for Research and European Studies (IRES) was founded in 2013 by a diverse group of scientists, practitioners, professionals from the economic and political sectors, and members of civil society. United by a shared commitment to open science, research excellence, and European studies, they established IRES as a platform for the exchange of ideas, informed debate, and interdisciplinary collaboration, open to all regardless of academic or professional background.
The founders of IRES remain actively involved in pro-European and freedom-oriented initiatives, as well as in efforts that strengthen peace, freedom, and inclusiveness at both European and global levels. Over time, IRES expanded its focus beyond European topics to address broader international issues, participating in global initiatives aimed at achieving long-term development and civilizational goals, while bearing in mind Europe’s role not only as a geographic region, but also as a historical, cultural, economic, and political center with significant influence on global development.
IRES builds its work on the principles of democratic governance, supporting research and policies that increase transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in democratic institutions. At the same time, the IRES promotes sustainable development through research, advocacy, and partnerships that balance economic growth with environmental protection and social justice. Central to its mission is the promotion of peace and social cohesion through dialogue, conflict prevention, and peacebuilding initiatives based on interdisciplinary research and international cooperation.
IRES continuously expands and strengthens its global expert network, creating opportunities for collaboration in research, policy advice, and knowledge exchange. To support decision-making and public debate, the IRES provides high-quality research and analysis that serve as the foundation for evidence-based policies and constructive public discussion. In the economic sphere, IRES promotes free markets and economic freedom by encouraging entrepreneurship, competition, and economic growth while protecting property rights and reducing barriers to innovation.
In addition to research, IRES invests in education and capacity building through training programs, courses, and schools that enhance students' and practitioners' knowledge, skills, and professional development. The IRES also publishes, translates, and promotes scientific and professional literature to ensure broad access to research and ideas, supporting the role of science in society.
Supervisory Board
Provides strategic guidance and governance with diverse expertise.
Keti Arsovska-Nestorovska, PhD - President
Elena Temelkovska-Anevska, PhD
Velko Georgiev, MA
Executive Board
Manages operations and programs with inclusive, diverse leadership.
Nikola Kuzmanovski – President
Aleksandar Georgiev, MA
Nikola Petrovski, MA
Vladimir Skrchevski
IRES is established and operates in accordance with the Law on Associations and Foundations of the Republic of North Macedonia. IRES was founded on 25 November 2013 and is officially registered in the Central Registry of the Republic of North Macedonia under:
UBIN: 6916147
Registry Number: 30420130004827
Registered Address: Orde Copela 13, PO Box 7000, Bitola, Republic of North Macedonia
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
IRES is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive environment in which all individuals are treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. We actively encourage and support participation from scholars and practitioners of diverse nationalities, cultures, disciplines, genders, abilities, and lived experiences.
IRES actively shares announcements, news updates, and relevant materials related to its areas of focus through its official Facebook and LinkedIn channels. By engaging with our audience on these platforms, we aim to promote a broader understanding of current issues, encourage informed discussion, and foster community involvement in our work.