Ekipa 20. Blejskega strateškega foruma išče študentske okrepitve!

Ekipa 20. Blejskega strateškega foruma išče študentske okrepitve!

Blejski strateški forum iz leta v leto postaja večja mednarodna konferenca, tako po številu visokih gostov kot tudi po številu drugih udeležencev. Vsakoleten uspeh Blejskega strateškega foruma brez dvoma ne bi bil možen brez izdatne pomoči razširjene ekipe Blejskega strateškega foruma, ki opravlja neprecenljivo delo pri izvedbi foruma. Zato tudi v letošnjem letu ponujamo priložnost mladim, da se pridružijo ekipi in postanejo del naše zgodbe.

Kje in kako boš vključen/a kot del ekipe Blejskega strateškega foruma?

  • na odprtju foruma v Festivalni dvorani,
  • v medijskem centru,
  • pri sprejemu delegacij na letališču Jožeta Pučnika,
  • v dvoranah na razpravah (tehnična in logistična pomoč, podpora moderatorjem),
  • na bilateralnih srečanjih,
  • na akreditacijskem pultu,
  • v PR ekipi.

Zakaj postati del ekipe Blejskega strateškega foruma?

  • nova poznanstva,
  • priložnost za mreženje,
  • izkušnje z delom na mednarodnem projektu,
  • možnost priznanja dela kot prakse v okviru formalnega izobraževanja,
  • delo, plačano po urni postavki 6,32 €/h neto,
  • izkušnja največje regionalne strateške konference.

Kaj pričakujemo?

  • Urejen študentski status do konca septembra 2025.
  • Zaželene (ne pa tudi nujne) so predhodne izkušnje pri organizaciji dogodkov.

Za celo ekipo Blejskega strateškega foruma bosta organizirana prehrana in prevoz iz Ljubljane do prizorišč na Bledu. Delo bo potekalo predvsem v ponedeljek, 1., ter v torek, 2. septembra, del ekipe bomo potrebovali že v soboto, 30. avgusta, in v nedeljo, 31. avgusta, kot tudi v času priprav na forum. Predpriprave za delo bodo vključevale nekaj koordinacijskih sestankov in krajših izobraževanj.

Če te delo na Blejskem strateškem forumu zanima ter želiš postati del naše ekipe in zgodbe, te vljudno vabimo, da se prijaviš preko spodnje povezave do vključno nedelje, 1. junija 2025. Ob izpolnjevanju prijavnice, te prosimo, da priložiš tudi svoj življenjepis (CV) in kratko motivacijsko pismo (do 300 besed). O izboru boš obveščen/a najkasneje do ponedeljka, 16. junija 2025.

PRIJAVNICA: https://form.jotform.com/250932959602362

V primeru dodatnih vprašanj se obrni na [email protected].

Na kratko o Blejskem strateškem forumu

V dvajsetih letih obstoja je Blejski strateški forum prerasel v vodilno mednarodno konferenco v srednji in jugovzhodni Evropi, ki vsako leto pritegne najrazličnejše domače in mednarodne udeležence. Namen foruma je sodelujoče spodbuditi k razpravam o sodobnih regionalnih in globalnih izzivih ter iskanju inovativnih rešitev. Poleg tega je odlična priložnost za različna dvo- in večstranska srečanja ter mreženje z vidnimi regionalnimi in globalnimi deležniki.

Letošnji, že 20. Blejski strateški forum, ki ga organizirata Ministrstvo za zunanje in evropske zadeve in Center za evropsko prihodnost, bo potekal 1. in 2. septembra 2025 na Bledu. Pred tem se bo med 29. in 31. avgustom na Pokljuki odvijal tudi Blejski strateški forum za mlade (Young Bled Strategic Forum – Young BSF), ki širokemu naboru mladih voditeljev, podjetnikov, vplivnežev, mislecev in družbenih aktivistov ponuja platformo za deljenje vizij, izmenjavo idej in mreženje.

Young BSF 2025 applications now open

Young BSF 2025 applications now open

We are happy to announce that the applications for the 14th Young Bled Strategic Forum (Young BSF) are now open! Young BSF is a participant-driven platform where bright young minds from around the world come together to share ideas and find inspiration to improve their communities.

We are inviting ambitious young professionals working in a broadly defined field of international politics to apply by 27 April 2025. All the relevant information can be found on the Young BSF website.

About Young BSF 2025

Under the title ‘What values?’ Young BSF 2025 will explore the intersection of values and world politics. Our aim is to better understand the fundamental drivers of international politics at the personal, professional and institutional levels by explicating our individual belief systems and juxtaposing those with the values that guide our actions on the global stage. For more information on the content please refer to the concept note that you can find on the website.

The programme of the Young BSF 2025 will take place from 29 to 31 August 2025 in Pokljuka, Slovenia, with participants arriving on 28 August. Following the conclusion of the Young BSF programme, the Young BSF participants will attend the 20th Bled Strategic Forum in Bled on 1 and 2 September.

Who can apply?

The Young Bled Strategic Forum participants are promising, curious and proactive young professionals aged 18–35. They are leaders and practitioners in the broadly defined field of world politics, with overlapping educational backgrounds, professional interests and career paths. They are young people driven by a commitment to creating a positive impact.

Why should you apply?

  • To explore the main theme of Young BSF and source ground-up solutions for select contemporary challenges in collaboration and in discussion with other participants and world-renowned experts.
  • Attend a three-day Young Bled Strategic Forum tailor-made programme with insightful discussions and engaging workshops in Pokljuka and then participate at the Bled Strategic Forum international conference – the leading conference in Central and South-Eastern Europe.
  • Hang out with and befriend some 40 thought-provoking, up-and-coming, interesting, ambitious, and diverse young leaders from all over the world.
  • Because the attendance is free, and all the costs of your participation are covered by us! Young Bled Strategic Forum is possible because of donations and funds from generous partners and sponsors. This way we can enable participation to whomever, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Participant selection process

The applications are now open and will remain open until 27 April. As the conference is participant-driven, we aim to select a gender-balanced group of individuals who will bring diverse and informed perspectives to the discussions. Participants will be selected from all continents, representing a variety of worldviews, educational backgrounds, and professional experiences.

The 20th Bled Strategic Forum will be held under the title “A Runaway World”

Announcing the 20th edition of the Bled Strategic Forum international conference taking place in Bled on 1–2 September.

This anniversary edition will be held under the title “A Runaway World.” The conference will mark the 20th jubilee of the Forum and will focus on Europe’s role in a new global order. The Bled Strategic Forum is an intergovernmental project of the Republic of Slovenia, organised by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the Centre for European Perspective, and is considered the most prominent foreign policy event in Slovenia.

“In a turbulent world, with many dynamic changes, crises and conflicts, politicians, world leaders, decision-makers are faced with increasing, complex global challenges to which we should respond with appropriate measures, policies, actions. This is why discussions within such an established, broad platform as the Bled Strategic Forum are particularly valuable for us, where we can seek answers and solutions to key issues in contemporary societies with a wide range of relevant actors,” emphasised Tanja Fajon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs.

The Bled Strategic Forum 2025 reflects 20 years of its existence by steadfastly adhering to the core of its success: a global platform that brings together diverse stakeholders to exchange ideas and views on contemporary society and its future.

A Jubilee of Adaptive Reliance

Over the past two decades, the Bled Strategic Forum has undergone a remarkable transformation. Initially established as a regional, one-day conference with a select group of panellists, it has evolved into a prestigious two-day international conference. Today, it attracts a diverse range of distinguished participants, including global decision-makers, thinkers, experts, think tanks, academics, business professionals and emerging talents.

The conference’s unique feature lies in its ability to foster meaningful exchanges and generate innovative solutions to address both current and future challenges. By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill sets, it creates an environment conducive to intellectual growth and collaborative problem-solving.

Recognised as the leading international conference in Central and South-Eastern Europe, the Bled Strategic Forum has gained global recognition. Its evolution from a one-off event to an ongoing platform has enabled it to establish partnerships with other global conferences, participate in international panels and expand its presence beyond Slovenia. This strategic expansion has not only enhanced Slovenia’s international standing, but has also contributed to its active role on the global stage.

Since its inception, the Bled Strategic Forum has been held in the picturesque town of Bled, which has become an integral part of the conference’s identity. This unique setting has garnered the trust and support of its participants, contributing to the enduring legacy of the Bled Strategic Forum.

Reshaping Resilience in the Evolving Global Landscape

Under the theme “A Runaway World”, the Bled Strategic Forum 2025 will focus on Europe’s role in a new global environment.

The Bled Strategic Forum 2025 will serve as a platform for reflection and action in a world overshadowed by ongoing crises and geopolitical uncertainty. As the international order fractures and new global complexities emerge, the Forum will invite leaders, experts and visionaries to examine Europe’s role in shaping a more stable, cooperative and resilient future.

Through strategic dialogue and innovative ideas, the conference will address the challenges of strengthening global governance, fostering strategic sovereignty and building trust in an increasingly polarised world.

Peter Grk, Secretary General of the Bled Strategic Forum, stated: “The Bled Strategic Forum 2025 will showcase its strengths by focusing on its guests through one-on-one talks, facilitating the exchange of ideas in panel discussions with diverse speakers and welcoming high-level decision makers.”

The concept and content of the Bled Strategic Forum are available here (link)

About the Bled Strategic Forum international conference

The Bled Strategic Forum international conference is the leading event in Central and South-Eastern Europe, bringing together participants from diverse fields and backgrounds to exchange views and generate ideas for overcoming current and future challenges.

The conference is the flagship event of a global platform of the same name, which aims to generate ideas and exchange views on contemporary society and its future. As an instrument of Slovenia’s soft power in foreign policy, it hosts and participates in key debates both in Slovenia and abroad throughout the year.

 

New CEP Report! Seeking Opportunities and Mitigating Risks: The Way Forward for CEEs Digital Transformation

New CEP Report! Seeking Opportunities and Mitigating Risks: The Way Forward for CEEs Digital Transformation

Our latest report: Seeking Opportunities and Mitigating Risks – The Way Forward for Central and Eastern Europe’s Digital Transformation is out!

Much has changed in transatlantic relations and digital cooperation since we began working on this report in early 2024. Despite some caveats, there was broad consensus that the US and the EU were strategic partners in the field of digital cooperation—an idea we have consistently promoted  in our past publications on digital transformation of Central and Eastern European (CEE) region.

However, shifting geopolitical dynamics and the new US administration have drastically altered the nature of this relationship. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described the current era as one of harsh geopolitical competition. Despite these challenges there is space for cooperation in key areas, particularly in advancing digital transformation and ensuring that Europe remains a strong and competitive player in the global economy.

The CEE region has an important role to play in this process. As it seeks to strengthen its position in the global digital economy and the intensified geopolitical environment, it must navigate a landscape filled with both opportunities and challenges. While the region has demonstrated remarkable ambition and talent, turning potential into tangible progress requires strategic policymaking, investment in digital infrastructure, and a commitment to fostering innovation at all levels of society.

The aim of this publication is to explore different areas where the countries of the CEE region could play a more prominent role in advancing digital transformation and strengthening the EU’s competitiveness. All articles in this publication conclude with policy recommendations, offering policymakers some ideas on how to navigate this changed environment. In an era where digital leadership is closely tied to geopolitical influence, Europe and the CEE region cannot afford to stand still. Although written in a seemingly different era, these contributions remain highly relevant and provide valuable insights.

  • Two major reports on improving EU’s competitiveness published last year, one by Mario Draghi and another by Enrico Letta, have set out ambitious strategies for Europe’s digital and economic progress. But the key question remains: will these ideas translate into real change? Barbara Matijašič tackles this challenge in her article, arguing that while Europe has no shortage of high-level strategies, the real issue lies in implementation. Without effective action, the gap between ambition and reality will only widen.
  • Beyond policy debates, the practical dimensions of digital competitiveness are also at stake. Radu-Cristian Muşetescu and Mihai Sebe explore how CEE countries can contribute to and benefit from Europe’s digital transformation. They emphasize the need for a balance between fostering local innovation and scaling up digital industries to compete globally.
  • One of the most pressing questions is whether the EU and the US can maintain a functional digital partnership despite these shifts. In her article, Andrea G. Rodríguez examines whether the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC) can still serve as a viable platform for cooperation. With uncertainty surrounding the TTC’s future, Rodríguez highlights the key dilemmas that need to be addressed to prevent transatlantic digital policy from becoming another casualty of global tensions.
  • Looking toward the future, Wiktor Sędkowski discusses the role of 6G and immersive technologies in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of technological innovation. His article outlines how investments in connectivity, AI-driven services, and digital infrastructure can create a more inclusive and competitive digital ecosystem.
  • Finally, no digital transformation strategy can succeed without robust cybersecurity. Ewelina Kasprzyk presents a case study on cybersecurity cooperation in the CEE region, highlighting how stronger regional frameworks and international partnerships can enhance resilience against growing cyber threats.

 

 

Access the report Seeking Opportunities and Mitigating Risks – The Way Forward for Central and Eastern Europe’s Digital Transformation here.

“New Technologies and Cybersecurity” WB3C Training

“New Technologies and Cybersecurity” WB3C Training

Between 5 and 8 November 2024 CEP supported Government Information Security Office of the Republic of Slovenia (URSIV) in organizing a “New Technologies and Cybersecurity” training at the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Center (WB3C) in Podgorica, gathering 18 cybersecurity experts from public institutions of the Western Balkan countries for an intensive training.

The aim of the training was to strengthen participants’ understanding of new technological tools that can significantly enhance cybersecurity frameworks within their institutions, ensuring a proactive approach to emerging cyber threats. Participants explored the deployment of three cutting-edge technologies—artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and honeypots.

Nine Slovenian experts shared their insights on various aspects of these technologies and their role in cybersecurity, covering topics such as AI governance, cryptographic advancements, and the use of honeypots as threat intelligence tools.