13th Slovenian development days: Business in Support of Global Solidarity

Slovenian Development Days is the largest national event dedicated to raising public awareness about the importance of official development assistance. It serves as the principal forum for dialogue among domestic and international experts, representatives of governmental and non-governmental institutions, international organisations, private sector stakeholders and the academic community on pressing issues in development cooperation and humanitarian aid.

This year’s edition will spotlight the crucial role of the business sector in both development cooperation and humanitarian aid. In the face of the rising number of humanitarian and development challenges, the active engagement of the business sector and private actors is essential for securing sustainable financing and addressing future development needs. Such collaboration holds strong potential for driving innovation, generating employment, strengthening local markets and fostering long-term economic growth.

The event will open on 14 October 2025 with a ceremonial launch, followed by a discussion featuring a UN High Representative. This will be followed by ministerial addresses and a high-level panel discussion on development partnerships as a business opportunity.

On Wednesday, 15 October 2025, the report on Slovenia's development cooperation and humanitarian aid for 2024 will be presented to the Committee on Foreign Policy of the Slovenian National Assembly, followed by a parliamentary debate.

The programme will continue the same day with a national consultation focused on integrating economic diplomacy into development cooperation and humanitarian aid. The consultation will include dialogue with partner institutions and organisations, several of which will also host side events throughout the week (14–17 October), aligned with this year's central theme.

The event will conclude on Friday, 17 October 2025, with a series of practical workshops, aimed primarily at business representatives. These sessions will explore ways to integrate the private sector into official development assistance, highlighting specific opportunities, challenges and best practices. Particular attention will be given to innovative financial mechanisms and the EU's Global Gateway initiative, with contributions from European Commission representatives. The closing session will provide a comprehensive overview of the current challenges and opportunities in Slovenian development cooperation.