On 17–18 September 2026, EMUNI University co-organised the international conference “Diplomacy 2.0: New Realities, New Agency, New Strategies” in Koper, bringing together diplomats, academics, researchers and experts to discuss how diplomacy is evolving in response to technological change, interconnected crises and shifting global power relations.
The conference was organised together with the Centre for Diplomatic, International Economic and Legal Studies (CDEPŠ) at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Social Sciences (UL FDV) and provided a platform for dialogue between academic perspectives and diplomatic practice.
Across four thematic panels, participants explored science diplomacy and sustainability, symbols and diplomatic language, the future of diplomacy in times of polycrises, and strategy, power and geopolitics. The discussions examined the emergence of areas such as science, digital, development and space diplomacy, while also highlighting the continued importance of negotiation, language, protocol, rituals and symbols.
The first day focused on the expanding boundaries of diplomatic practice and the growing role of scientists, universities, research institutions and other actors in international relations. Participants also reflected on how digital technologies are transforming diplomatic communication while traditional diplomatic skills and instruments continue to play an essential role.
On the second day, discussions turned to artificial intelligence and digitalisation, global value chains, multilateralism, changing power relations and the relationship between international rules and power. Particular attention was given to diplomacy’s capacity to create opportunities for cooperation in an increasingly complex and uncertain international environment.
One of the central messages emerging from the two days was that new diplomacy does not replace traditional diplomacy. Instead, new technologies, actors and areas of engagement are reshaping diplomatic practice while making strategic understanding, diplomatic knowledge and the ability to navigate complex situations increasingly important.
For EMUNI, co-organising Diplomacy 2.0 reflects our commitment to fostering dialogue across institutions, disciplines and borders and to providing a platform where academia, diplomacy and international cooperation can come together to address emerging regional and global challenges.
As the first event of its kind in the field of diplomacy in Slovenia, Diplomacy 2.0 opened important questions for both academic research and diplomatic practice. The discussions initiated in Koper are expected to continue, with a second edition of the conference planned in two years.
