The International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI), a UNESCO Category 2 Centre based at the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI), was highlighted as a concrete example of how science, policymaking and diplomacy can come together to advance international cooperation on artificial intelligence during a visit by representatives of UNESCO and the European Commission to JSI on 17 September 2026.
The meeting, held in the framework of science diplomacy, brought together representatives of UNESCO, the European Commission, the Jožef Stefan Institute and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia. Discussions focused on the role of scientific knowledge, research infrastructure and international cooperation in addressing complex global challenges.
Particular attention was devoted to artificial intelligence and IRCAI’s role in connecting scientific expertise with policy and international cooperation. As a UNESCO Category 2 Centre, IRCAI provides a platform for bringing together researchers, policymakers and international partners around the responsible and sustainable development and use of AI.
The discussions also emphasized the importance of scientific facts and evidence-based dialogue. Trust in emerging technologies begins with trust in science, researchers and the research infrastructures behind them.
Science diplomacy can transform this trust into meaningful partnerships, connecting knowledge, institutions and people across borders to address shared global challenges.
