According to Minister Jevšek, this commitment is demonstrated in the decision of the current Government of the Republic of Slovenia to address the area of European Cohesion Policy and Regional Development under one ministry. “I spoke in favour of combining the two areas well before I took office; indeed, Cohesion Policy and Regional Development both pursue the same objectives, namely reducing economic and social disparities between regions,” said Minister Jevšek. 

The Minister underlined the relevance of cooperation when addressing regional development challenges: “We address regional development challenges, such as harmonious and sustainable development, centralisation, migration and commuting to centres and abroad, in cooperation with all line ministries, regions, local communities and all other stakeholders. As a former Mayor of the Urban Municipality of Murska Sobota, which is the centre of the Pomurje region in North-Eastern Slovenia that is still considered one of the least developed regions of Slovenia, I know very well how important cooperation within a country is, and what a vital role cross-border and broader international cooperation play in the development of a region and in improving the quality of life for its inhabitants.”

Meetings and conferences, where experts meet face-to-face even though new technologies enable remote work, are an import form of cooperation, added Minister Jevšek.  

Regional Studies Association is one of the most recognised and acknowledged platforms that brings together the science and policies of regional development. The Association’s scientific achievements and expertise serve as a basis for regional policy planning and regional development for numerous countries, as well as the European Commission.

This year’s conference is the first conference organised after a two-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Participants came from 54 countries, around 650 participants attended the conference in Ljubljana, and additional 65 participants joined the conference online.