Center for Advanced Study, Sofia
Visiting Fellow

Duration of Stay: June 2024, based at IOS

Roumen Avramov is a Bulgarian economist and historian with a rich academic and professional background. Born in Paris, France, he holds a Ph.D. from the Higher Institute of Economics in Sofia. He has been senior research fellow at the Bulgarian academy of sciences, Economic Adviser to the President of Bulgaria, Vice-President of the Agency for Economic Coordination and Development, Member of the Board of governors of the Bulgarian national bank, Programme Director at the Centre for Liberal Strategies in Sofia. Before his retirement he held the position of Permanent Fellow at the Centre for Advanced Study Sofia and is currently a member of its Academic Advisory Council.

Avramov's prolific career has contributed to the understanding of Bulgaria's economic and social history. With a particular focus on the economic transformations and policies of the 20th century, his work has shed light on critical periods such as the Holocaust and state anti-Semitism in Bulgaria during World War II. His seminal book, "Salvation" and Abjection: Microeconomics of State Anti-Semitism in Bulgaria 1940-1944" (Sofia University press. 2012) offers a detailed examination of the economic mechanisms underpinning state policies against Jews.

Avramov has also explored the economic instability of the communist era, notably in "Money and De/Stabilization in Bulgaria 1948-1989," providing insights into the monetary policies and their impacts on the Bulgarian economy during this tumultuous period. His three-volume work, "Communal Capitalism: Reflections on the Bulgarian Economic Past," delves into the historical evolution of Bulgaria’s economic systems, emphasizing the collectivistic aspects that have shaped its development.

In addition to his publications, Avramov has played a pivotal role in editing significant historical documents, such as those related to the deportation of Jews from Vardar Macedonia, Western Thrace, and Pirot during March 1943, ensuring that these critical events are meticulously documented and studied. His contributions are important to both historians and economists in understanding the complex interplay of economics and societal changes in Bulgaria.

During his time in Regensburg, he will give a guest lecture addressing Jews under Bulgarian Rule During the Holocaust: Institutional Settings, Bifurcating Trajectories and Memories. The talk takes place on 11 June at 12:00 in Room S.214. He will also participate in an more informal meet-and-greet session for visiting researchers following on from this talk.