The future development of the Danube Region, which is among the most diverse in Europe, will largely depend on the ability of current and future generations in adapting to the challenges brought on by green and digital transformation. That is why State Secretary Štucin emphasized the importance of increased cooperation in the region, especially with EU candidate countries. He called for a balanced development in Europe, which is too small to separate itself between the centres and the periphery in terms of development. The region faces challenges like economic migration, brain drain and a lack of skilled labour, which mainly concern the young generation in the region. He presented the intention of the Slovenian EUSDR Presidency to contribute to the involvement of young people in building a balanced and sustainable future, which will be based on a knowledge society.

The hybrid conference, which is attended by around a hundred offline and online participants, will focus on discussions about the expected transformation of society and the role of knowledge in society in the next two days. The conclusions of the conference will be an important contribution to the discussion of the EUSDR ministerial meeting that will take place within the framework of the 12th EUSDR Annual Forum in October and will be part of their Joint Statement.