How to Make Slovenia Attractive to Talent at Home and Abroad?

The ASEF Institute proudly presents the results of a research project addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time – the return of domestic experts and the attraction of foreign professionals.

Young individuals with great potential migrate to places where opportunities are greatest. Countries compete by shaping policies and allocating resources to attract talent, a competition intensified by globalization and digitalization. Wealthier countries offer exceptional conditions for work, research, and living – from stimulating salaries to comprehensive “family packages.” Slovenia, on the other hand, focuses on internationalization and encouraging the return of its experts after completing postdoctoral studies or specializations abroad.

The research project, led by Dr. Željko Oset, analyzed successful practices in countries such as Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Austria, Germany, Sweden, and Israel. Additionally, the project developed a multidimensional index to evaluate the feasibility of implementing these measures in the Slovenian context. The final report offers concrete guidelines on how Slovenia can enhance its policies and create conditions that enable researchers and innovators to realize their potential here.

Research Team: Dr. Željko Oset (Project Leader), Dr. Dejan Valentinčič, Kaja Cunk, Stela Kocbek, Barbara Zagorc.

Project No. V6-2268 was co-financed by the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency and the Ministry of Digital Transformation during the period October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2024.