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.
