Hrair Balian

Director, Conflict Resolution Program

Hrair Balian joined The Carter Center in 2008 as director of the Conflict Resolution Program. Mr. Balian oversees the program's efforts to monitor conflicts around the world and work with other Carter Center programs on human rights, democracy, the Americas, China, and health.

Mr. Balian most recently served as director for the office of the U.N. Secretary-General's High Representative for the Elections in Cote d'Ivoire, where he focused on facilitating and certifying democratic elections. Actively involved in crisis mitigation, Mr. Balian assisted in overcoming major political impediments and helped pave the way for political agreement and eventual elections.

He led field activities in Bosnia for the International Crisis Group between 1996-1998, specifically focusing on early warning of conflict resumption and promotion of sustainable stability.

At the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, he directed electoral assistance and observation programs. He also developed programs to mitigate longstanding differences between authorities of participating states and opposition leaders.

Mr. Balian received his Juris Doctor degree from Golden Gate University. In May 2009, the New England College awarded Mr. Balian the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, for his "lifetime commitment to the dignity, respect, and self-determination of all peoples" and for his "uncompromising effort to resolve international conflicts."

He is fluent in English, French, and Armenian, with a basic understanding of Arabic.