Seminar o sodelovanju z lokalnimi skupnostmi se bo odvil 21. maja na Jablah – prijave so odprte

Seminar o sodelovanju z lokalnimi skupnostmi se bo odvil 21. maja na Jablah – prijave so odprte

3. 4. 2025 | Peace and security, POTC, PR

V sredo, 21. maja 2025, bo grad Jable gostil seminar, na katerem bodo izbrani strokovnjaki predstavili vključevanje lokalnih skupnosti v procese ohranjanja in gradnje miru. Ob uspešnem zaključku seminarja bodo udeleženci pridobili certifikacijo.

Click here to read this article in English.

Vključevanje lokalnih skupnosti v procese ohranjanja in grajenja miru je ključno za uspešnost izvajanja mandatov mirovnih operacij in misij. Sodelovanje predstavnikov lokalnih skupnosti prispeva k razumevanju potreb skupnosti po zaščiti, spodbuja sodelovanje vseh podsistemov družbe in tako prispeva k trajnosti rezultatov na terenu in večanju legitimnosti lokalnih oblasti in mednarodne skupnosti. Vključevanje skupnosti – ki ga ne razumemo zgolj kot enosmerno obveščanje o odločitvah, ampak kot dejanski proces vključevanja v odločanje – je v središču sodobnih pristopov ohranjanja miru in se dotika različnih presečnih tem (vloga spola, zaščita civilistov, zaščita in vključevanje ranljivih skupin, itd.). Namen seminarja je udeležence seznaniti s konkretnimi metodami in mehanizmi za vključevanje in sodelovanje, ki jih pri delu z lokalnimi deležnikimi uporabljajo predstavniki slovenskih državnih organov, organov v sestavi in izvedbenih agencij.

Celodnevni seminar bo udeležence seznanil z načini s katerimi se lahko prispeva k ohranjanju miru s sodelovanjem z lokalnimi deležniki, prav tako bodo naslovljeni načini podpiranja vključevanja, odpornosti, odgovornosti in lokalne odgovornosti. Udeleženci bodo na koncu razumeli, kako pomagati osebju misij in operacij pri razvoju ustreznih spretnosti, ki so potrebne za uspešno sodelovanje z lokalnimi skupnostmi.

Seminar je namenjen predstavnikom treh resorjev, pripadnikom Slovenske vojske, Policije in nevladnikom.

V okviru seminarja bo poskrbljeno za tople napitke, prigrizke in kosilo. Za civilno osebje priporočamo sproščeno poslovno obleko (business casual), za pripadnike Slovenske vojske in Policije pa delovno uniformo.

Prijave potekajo na povezavi (prijave se zaprejo 11. maja).

Kontaktni e-naslov: [email protected]

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Young BSF 2025 applications now open

Young BSF 2025 applications now open

3. 4. 2025 | Bled Strategic Forum, PR, Young BSF

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”

2. 4. 2025 | Bled Strategic Forum, PR

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.

 

Drugo varnostno usposabljanje za diplomatsko osebje

Drugo varnostno usposabljanje za diplomatsko osebje

1. 4. 2025 | Peace and security, POTC, PR

Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC) v sodelovanju z Oddelkom za varnostno načrtovanja v Službi za varnost, nepremičnine in logistiko tudi letos organizira Varnostno usposabljanje za diplomatsko osebje. Usposabljanje bo potekalo v torek, 27. maja 2025 na Gradu Jable.

Click here to read this article in English.

Varnostno usposabljanje je namenjeno vsem profesionalnim diplomatom, ki jih RS napotuje v države z nizko stopnjo varnostnega tveganja in nimajo predhodnega znanja s področja zagotavljanja osebne varnosti. Po uspešno zaključeni udeležbi bodo udeleženci sposobni prepoznati različne varnostne grožnje, razumeti osnove varnostnih postopkov in protokolov na DKP, poznati osnove ravnanja v spremenjenih varnostnih razmerah na DKP in na poti, prepoznavati aktivnosti nadzora, uporabljati ukrepe za zmanjšanje varnostnih tveganj ter uporabiti ukrepe in metode za zmanjševanje stresa v visoko stresnih situacijah.

Ciljna skupina: diplomatsko osebje pred napotitvijo v tujino.

Udeležba na usposabljanju je zaprta za javnost.

V primeru dodatnih vprašanj, nas kontaktirajte preko: [email protected]

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Successful Completion of the Comprehensive Approach to Gender in Operations Training

Successful Completion of the Comprehensive Approach to Gender in Operations Training

18. 3. 2025 | Peace and security, POTC, PR

The Comprehensive Approach to Gender in Operations training, held at Jable Castle in Slovenia from 10 to 14 March 2025, was successfully completed by 14 participants from 8 different countries. The training was delivered in cooperation between the Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC) and the European Security and Defence College (ESDC).

Kliknite tukaj za branje članka v slovenskem jeziku.

During the five-day training programme, participants from various professional backgrounds worked on topics such as:
• Gender mainstreaming,
• Gender roles and power structures within the local context,
• Normative and legal frameworks and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda,
• Vulnerable groups in conflict and conflict-related gender-based violence,
• The gender dimension in human trafficking,
• The gender dimension in the climate-security nexus,
• Gender mainstreaming in Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions,
• Experiences from international missions and operations, including the roles of gender and protection advisers and gender focal points in peace operations, and
• Individual contributions to gender mainstreaming.

The overall objective of the training was to enhance operational effectiveness by equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively incorporate a gender perspective in CSDP and international missions and operations.

POTC would like to thank the trainers and ESDC for their excellent cooperation, and especially all participants, who significantly contributed to the successful delivery of the training through their high level of engagement, active participation, and insightful discussions.

Photo highlights from the training:

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For more information about the training and more, you can follow us on social media:

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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

17. 3. 2025 | PR, Regional cooperation, Transformative Power of Digital

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.