Slovenia, renowned for its scenic landscapes and cultural richness, is making notable progress in artificial intelligence (AI). On May 27, 2021, Slovenia adopted the National AI Programme (NpUI) for 2021-2025, led by the Ministry of Digital Transformation (MDT) and the Information Society and Informatics Directorate (DID). This strategic initiative aims to harness AI’s potential for societal and economic growth.
The NpUI outlines ten strategic goals to build a dynamic ecosystem for AI research, innovation, and deployment. A key objective is fostering a network of stakeholders, including public research institutes and private R&D labs, to drive AI advancements across various sectors. This approach ensures Slovenia remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
Education and human resource development are pivotal to Slovenia’s AI strategy. By investing in education and training, the programme prepares the workforce for an AI-driven future, aligning with OECD AI principles that emphasize inclusive growth, sustainable development, and well-being. The NpUI also emphasizes research and innovation, supporting cutting-edge initiatives and developing reference AI solutions for business, public sectors, and society. By establishing a robust technical infrastructure, Slovenia aims to boost its global competitiveness in AI. International cooperation is another cornerstone of Slovenia’s AI strategy. The NpUI underscores the importance of collaborating with other countries to develop trustworthy AI solutions, enhancing Slovenia’s AI capabilities and contributing to global efforts for ethical AI systems.
The NpUI addresses several policy areas, including agriculture, corporate governance, digital economy, education, environment, and health. By integrating AI into these diverse fields, Slovenia aims to drive innovation and improve efficiency across sectors, ensuring widespread and inclusive benefits.
Aligned with the European Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the Coordinated Artificial Intelligence Plan, Slovenia’s AI programme continues the vision of the Digital Slovenia 2020 Development Strategy (DS2020). With an estimated annual budget ranging from 100 million to 500 million euros, the programme highlights the crucial role of private sector funding in driving AI advancements. Although not classified as a structural reform and yet to undergo formal evaluation, the NpUI represents a significant step towards building a robust AI framework in Slovenia. Its success will be measured by its ability to foster a dynamic AI ecosystem, enhance human capital, and ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies.
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| YEAR | POLICY |
| 2021 | NATIONAL AI PROGRAM OF SLOVANIA |