Second European Science Diplomacy Conference in Copenhagen

Director-General Peter Japelj at the 2nd European Science Diplomacy Conference | Author Ministrstvo za zunanje in evropske zadeve

The introductory panel offered a comprehensive overview of Europe's role in a rapidly evolving global landscape, highlighting key challenges and opportunities for European science diplomacy. The discussion outlined concrete commitments to strengthening the effectiveness and impact of the European approach in this field, providing a framework for subsequent conference discussions.

In his contribution, Director-General Japelj underlined that the current global shifts are profoundly influencing both the understanding and the role of science diplomacy worldwide. He emphasised its educational and awareness-raising function, particularly in the context of the rapid development of artificial intelligence. He cautioned that future generations will grow up in an environment increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, and stressed that science diplomacy therefore has a responsibility to foster understanding of its implications and to promote its responsible use.

He went on to outline his expectations for the future development of science diplomacy in Slovenia, highlighting the importance of initiatives such as the establishment of the International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI) under the auspices of UNESCO, as well as Slovenia's recent accession to the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the European Space Agency. He also underlined the close connection between economic diplomacy and science diplomacy, which he identified as essential for Slovenia's pursuit of a knowledge-based development model.

Director-General Japelj further noted that for Slovenia, the regional dimension of cooperation in science is equally important, as demonstrated by the recent UNESCO regional science diplomacy conference in Ljubljana. He referred to ongoing efforts to develop mechanisms within the Slovenian diplomatic network to more effectively promote Slovenian science and research, and highlighted the need to raise awareness of the role of science diplomacy in shaping future activities. This includes fostering regular and inclusive dialogue, strengthening joint research capacities and enhancing strategic planning at both national and European levels.