Dr. Emilija Stojmenova Duh, former Minister of Digital Transformation, Slovenia

1. How do you use technology/policy to improve citizens’ lives? Tell us about your role or organisation.

Until October, I served as the Minister of Digital Transformation of Slovenia. The Ministry for Digital Transformation oversees and analyzes the state of digital transformation and the information society at the national level. As a minister, my responsibilities encompassed various domains, including the information society, electronic communications, digital inclusion, digital competencies, data economy, the management of information and communication systems, and the provision of electronic public administration services.

In October, I returned to the University of Ljubljana, where I am an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering. While my role as a minister was largely focused on policy-making, I remain actively involved in shaping policy. However, my current position allows me the valuable opportunity to engage in research and integrate these insights into policy recommendations.

One of the aspects I deeply appreciate about my role at the university is working with and teaching young people who are developing the technologies of the future. It is particularly important to me to ensure they advocate for the responsible and ethical use of technology, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive digital future.

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2. What was the most impactful project you worked on this year?

One of the most impactful projects this year was undoubtedly the Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2024, which we organized in partnership with UNESCO in Slovenia. This landmark event brought together over 600 participants from nearly 70 countries to explore the immense potential of AI while addressing critical ethical challenges.

A significant highlight of the forum was the commitment of eight leading technology companies to align their AI development practices with UNESCO's ethical guidelines. On the sidelines of the forum, these companies—Microsoft, Mastercard, Lenovo, GSMA, INNIT, LG, Salesforce, and Telefonica—formalized their pledge by signing an agreement with UNESCO, underscoring their dedication to fostering more ethical AI innovation.

3. What was one unexpected learning from 2024?

One unexpected insight I gained is that politics is often not primarily about policymaking. Surprisingly, researchers often have a greater capacity to influence and shape effective policies than politicians themselves, as they provide the evidence, data, and analysis that form the foundation of sound decision-making.

4. What’s a tool or technique you’re excited to explore in 2025?

In the coming months, I’m excited to explore how generative AI can revolutionize interactive citizen engagement platforms. These platforms have the potential to empower governments and municipalities to deliver services that are not only more efficient but also more inclusive, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and integrated into public decision-making processes.

5. Everybody’s talking about AI today – give us your hot take on AI and what it means for the public sector.

AI is, at its core, a tool—an incredibly powerful one that, like any other tool, can be wielded for good or ill. Ultimately, how we choose to use AI is up to us. I believe—and deeply hope—that we will harness its potential to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time, including the climate and environmental crisis, global inequality, public health and pandemics, and the erosion of trust in institutions due to misinformation.

For the public sector, the rise of AI represents a tremendous opportunity. It can drive efficiency and productivity, reduce human errors, and enable data-driven decision-making, leading to better public services and more effective policy implementation. In addition, AI can play a pivotal role in combating fraud and corruption, fostering greater transparency and trust.

The key, however, is to approach AI ethically and responsibly, ensuring it benefits all members of society equitably while addressing its potential risks.

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6. What are your priorities for 2025?

My top priority in 2025 will be fostering projects that bridge the digital divide while promoting responsible and inclusive digital transformation. I believe it is essential to work in interdisciplinary and international teams to address complex challenges effectively. By maintaining a holistic perspective and focusing on the 'big picture,' I aim to ensure that digital initiatives contribute to a more equitable, sustainable, and connected global society.

7. What advice do you have for public sector innovators?

The same guidance I offer to my students and colleagues applies to public sector innovators: Stay curious and committed to lifelong learning. Embrace the mindset that innovation thrives on agility, even in traditionally rigid public systems. Advocate for and adopt agile development practices.

Above all, be bold and open to experimentation. Don’t fear trying something new, even when mistakes are a possibility. Remember, mistakes are not failures—they are invaluable opportunities to learn, grow, and improve. Cultivating a culture that views missteps as stepping stones toward progress is key to driving meaningful change.

8. Who inspires you today?

I draw inspiration from many people, particularly women, who dedicate themselves to building a more connected, empathetic, and compassionate world. I deeply admire those who stand firm in their values and principles, unafraid to voice their beliefs and take a stand when they see injustice. These are the people who courageously speak up when something is wrong and seize opportunities to drive meaningful change for a better future.