The floods that hit Slovenia in August 2023 had far-reaching consequences, ranging from severe property damage to deeply personal losses. The worst natural disaster in the history of independent Slovenia affected nearly two-thirds of the country's territory. The exceptional willingness to help shown by the citizens, volunteers, firefighters, and relief organisations, coupled with Slovenian Government's prompt response, mitigated the consequences of the disaster. In response to the devastating floods of two years ago, Slovenia is set to introduce a public warning and alert system via mobile networks called SI-Alarm. A public test of the system will take place on 27 September, prior to its official launch. This system represents a significant step forward in strengthening the country's preparedness for natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, fires, major emergencies, and other crisis situations.
On 1 and 2 September, Bled will host the 20th Bled Strategic Forum International Conference, marking its anniversary with the theme 'A Runaway World'. This year's edition will celebrate the Forum's 20th anniversary and feature discussions on Europe's role in a new global environment. Over the past two decades, the Forum has evolved from a one-day regional event into a two-day international conference attended by high-level participants, while its core mission has remained unchanged. The debates will focus on political and economic trends affecting Europe and the wider world, with a specific emphasis on linking these trends to current international developments. Organised by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the Centre for European Perspective, the Bled Strategic Forum is Slovenia's intergovernmental project and the country's most notable foreign policy event.
