Ira Papagjika

Facilitated the integration of foreign scientists into NIH by preparing visa petitions (J-1, H-1B, O-1) for USCIS, coordinating waiver requests, and managing case files. Provided responsive case management and customer service to visa applicants, ensuring compliance with immigration policies.

Conducted extensive research on unaccompanied children, examining statistical trends among Ukrainian and other international arrivals and assessing services provided. Produced briefs detailing the legal rights of unaccompanied minors and the protections afforded under U.S. and international law.

Engaged with private sector partners, academia, and philanthropic foundations to raise awareness of IOM’s work on climate change, displacement, and counter-trafficking. Drafted legal agreements and monitored donor-funded projects, ensuring adherence to reporting requirements and funder expectations.

Researched cases of women’s, children’s, and migrant rights violations; developed training materials for law enforcement and legal practitioners. Authored a blog analyzing improvements to the guardianship system for children on the move, drawing on European best practices and U.S. legal standards.

Investigated guardianship systems and rights of unaccompanied children across Europe; produced a white paper for the U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child. Provided policy recommendations to end institutionalization and strengthen foster care and guardianship systems.

Managed multidisciplinary teams to monitor public institutions’ compliance with human rights conventions, focusing on women’s and children’s rights. Oversaw the National Preventive Mechanism, monitoring open and closed centers for refugees, anti-trafficking shelters, and border detention facilities.

Provided legal counsel on administrative law, labor law, and international agreements; drafted legislation, contracts, and policy documents. Represented the government in court and guided recruitment and disciplinary procedures for civil servants.

Grade: summa cum laude

Achieved summa cum laude, focusing on International Human Rights Law, Gender & Cultural Rights, Disability Rights Clinic, and Immigration & Family Law. This advanced study deepened expertise in critical legal areas.

Participated in the Fulbright Program, gaining advanced training in Law & Human Rights. This fellowship provided a comprehensive understanding of human rights frameworks and their practical application.

Completed a joint program, enhancing knowledge in democratic principles and human rights. This international collaboration broadened perspectives on global human rights issues.

Obtained dual master's degrees, providing a strong foundation in legal studies and public administration. This education equipped with skills for policy development and legal counsel.