English
The Ready 4D Future Committee emphasizes the crucial role of the individual and their readiness for change, the understanding of technology, and empowerment to use it for creative purposes. From the challenges of information security and cybersecurity to artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and the importance of data – without fundamental knowledge of digital language we will not be the creators of our future, but merely its followers.
Slovenia finds itself at a digital crossroads, where passivity is no longer an option if we wish to progress as a society and remain or become globally competitive. In an era shaped by digital technology, the committee emphasizes the importance of technology that benefits people, society, and the economy, the development of algorithmic thinking, and the creative use of technology. As our lives are intertwined with breakthrough technologies such as AI, it is crucial that we move beyond merely using technology and ensure an understanding of its impact on the individual and society. Slovenia faces serious gaps in this regard; for instance, we are at the very bottom of the EU regarding the use of an electronic identity, as one-fifth of the Slovenian population is unfamiliar with this. Digital exclusion hinders progress in numerous areas. Although the share of ICT specialists in the workforce is increasing, we still do not reach the EU average, which directly limits companies in implementing advanced technologies. Addressing these challenges requires the urgent integration of Computer and Information Science (CIS) content – or digital language – into all levels of education. Ethics plays a key role here, and therefore the committee calls for the responsible use of technology, particularly AI, the ethical handling of data, and the use of technology for the welfare of society.
On the other hand, Slovenia plays a very prominent role in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, as indicated by key data. These indirectly employ around 50,000 people, the added value per employee in this sector exceeds EUR 100,000, and medicines represent more than 40% of total Slovenian exports. It is estimated that these industries account for between 6% and 8% of GDP, a figure that is steadily growing. The European Commission has officially classified biotechnology as a critical technology essential for the economic security and strategic autonomy of the EU. The goal is clear: Europe does not want to be just the world’s laboratory, but also its factory.
After long preparations, the European Commission presented the official proposal for the EU Biotech Act in December 2025. Its purpose is to remove obstacles that have stifled European innovation for decades. The EU Biotech Act goes hand in hand with AI regulation. The act encourages the use of in silico testing – computer simulations and AI models that replace part of the usual long-term laboratory experiments. This is where biotechnology meets AI, enabling:
For Slovenia, which has a strong pharmaceutical core, this news is extremely positive. The EU Biotech Act opens doors for Slovenian companies to become part of Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI), bringing easier access to European funds and faster development of innovative therapies.
Slovenia is falling significantly in the rankings of digital literacy skills and knowledge, which is why the introduction of a compulsory subject called digital language from grades 1 to 9 of primary and secondary school is necessary to maintain the competitiveness of society. Digital language should be treated as a second or third foreign language in the education system, as it is not only a technical skill but also a fundamental tool for communication, critical thinking, and informed decision-making. In most European countries, computer science and informatics are mandatory or elective subjects in primary and secondary schools, or the content is partially or fully integrated into other subjects. Countries are also gradually introducing AI as a subject in secondary schools, recognizing the rapid development and the importance of remaining competitive in a fast-changing digital age. Research on the digital maturity of youth confirms an alarming situation, as 75% of students feel they missed advanced digital literacy content in school. While over 90% of young people already use AI tools, it is vital that they learn critical thinking, develop algorithmic thinking, and are able to address ethical concerns. Our view requires a transition from passive consumers to active creators. It is thus high time for legislators to activate and, in terms of content, upgrade the RINOS Action Plan from 2016 to become a more up-to-date response to contemporary technological challenges.
A key building block for understanding digital language is the systemic introduction of STEM robotics programs in schools, allowing young people to learn the basics of programming, sensors, and automation, while developing logical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving, as well as gaining real-world contact with industry (robotics, smart factories, logistics, AI). Without understanding the principles of digital technology and its effective and ethical use, young people will not be equipped to succeed in the digital age.
In an era dominated by information systems, the committee continues to emphasize the growing importance of cybersecurity in protecting social welfare. Taking strategic frameworks into account, the committee remains resolute in its advocacy for measures that are not only intended to secure our digital future, but also to contribute to the prosperity and security of our connected society.
One of the committee’s other important goals in the field of information and cybersecurity is raising awareness about legislation, where we highlight the NIS2 Directive, which Slovenia transposed into national law through the new Information Security Act (ZInfV-1). In the context of a constant increase in cyberattacks causing significant economic damage, this directive seeks to raise the overall level of cybersecurity and resilience across the EU. The committee will continue to strive for greater awareness regarding the importance of cyber and digital security, both from the perspective of individuals and companies, as well as the economic and broader social environment.
In the AmCham Ready 4D Future Committee, we strongly advocate for a decisive, thoughtful, and conscientious approach to the integration of AI into the social framework. As this technology evolves, it is essential for individuals, companies, and the government to actively engage with regulatory frameworks, maintain ethical standards, and plan for the future. AI offers opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and social progress, where Slovenia can compete equally with other developed nations. However, it is crucial that a robust and innovation-friendly regulatory framework is established to ensure the responsible and sustainable development of AI, that education is adjusted accordingly, and that ethical principles are respected.
The EU regulatory framework for AI is based on the belief that it must serve the interests of humans and society while respecting fundamental rights. The committee supports EU efforts to achieve a balance between promoting innovation and ensuring the responsible use of AI. A positive legislative framework, coupled with properly addressed ethical issues, is crucial for the development and implementation of AI systems, such as startups, innovative services, and products. The committee advocates for a proactive approach to ethical AI that emphasizes transparency and accountability and aims to benefit society.
AI is not just a new challenge to be solved but also a valuable opportunity that must be turned into an advantage for the Slovenian innovation ecosystem. The EU recognizes that in the face of the technological revolution brought about by AI, regulation alone is insufficient, and better support for innovation is also needed. Therefore, the committee advocates a dual approach: responsible and meaningful regulation that protects people, along with strong support for innovations that strengthen the economy. Collaboration among companies, academia, and civil society is key to establishing ethical guidelines that reflect societal values.
Data represent an invaluable strategic advantage that often remains untapped in many key industries, such as transport, energy, and manufacturing, due to deeply rooted data silos. These silos prevent system integration, which, combined with a lack of analytical competencies, leads to slow and incomplete decision-making.
To overcome these obstacles, the committee advocates for a transition to active data use through a structured industrial approach. This begins with the establishment of interoperable platforms and a solid data foundation that enables the seamless flow of information. The next key step is the execution of Proof of Concept (PoC) projects, which confirm the value of new solutions in a safe and controlled environment. The process concludes by scaling these solutions to the level of entire systems, bringing companies not only real-time insights but also a return of global competitiveness. Only by moving from successful pilot projects to their widespread use can Slovenian industry fully exploit its data advantage and become truly resilient to future challenges.
In this process, the economy must actively invest in the development of specific digital skills among employees and establish advanced data platforms that will enable the use of tools such as predictive analytics and generative artificial intelligence. The goal of these efforts is to enable industry to generate significantly greater added value from data and ensure resilience to rapid technological changes.
Bioinformatics, or informatics (in the broader sense) in biology, is becoming increasingly important precisely due to the intersection of AI and biotechnology, the two leading fields of the 21st century. Societies that develop both simultaneously will thus be undisputed winners in every sense of the word in the decades ahead.
Biotechnology is no longer just the domain of laboratories, but is instead becoming a foundation of national security, economic resilience, and public health. For Slovenia, developing a strong biotechnology ecosystem is not just an industrial choice but a strategic necessity:
The true meaning of the Ready 4D Future label lies at the intersection of biology and silicon. The synergy between biotechnology and AI is transforming the field from a process of trial and error to a discipline of predictive engineering.
Key message: A society that invests in the convergence of AI and biotechnology is not only preparing for the future, but is actively creating the biological and economic tools needed to succeed in it.
Slovenia is not starting from scratch; our strong pharmaceutical tradition is the ideal springboard for a breakthrough to the top of global biotechnology.
Slovenia has everything it needs – from tradition to cutting-edge knowledge – to become the winner of the biotechnology century. All we need is a bold vision, synergy with AI, and thoughtful regulation that will open the door to innovation.
Within the AmCham Ready 4D Future Committee, we support the vision of the Slovenia Biotech Hills initiative for Slovenia to become Europe’s most attractive destination for biotech companies and talent. We find ourselves at a moment where we must move from the planning phase to the phase of concrete systemic measures that will solidify our country as a recognized “biotech hub.” Our vision is based on a strong pharmaceutical industry tradition, which, for competitiveness, urgently requires the integration of advanced robotics, biotechnology, and quantum technologies, which are indispensable for simulations and the secure processing of vast amounts of sensitive data. To achieve this, we must prioritize resolving obstacles related to the lack of specific knowledge that combines digital logic with the natural sciences, and ensure a stable and predictable environment where research and development acts as an engine for a high-value-added economy. With its knowledge of biotechnology, a growing AI sector, a strong background in robotics, and a presence in quantum technologies, Slovenia could serve as a sandbox for new solutions, including those envisioned by the EU Biotech Act.
See the full list of Committee members.
For all questions related to the Committee’s work, you can turn to our Committee coordinator Vida Dolenc Pogačnik, our COO and International Cooperation Leader.
Vida Dolenc Pogačnik
COO and International Cooperation Leader
