Workshop 'StartAI: A step towards a strategic framework' held in Zagreb

The workshop marked the kick-off of the work of an Expert Working Group on the development of a National AI Development Plan and accompanying Action Plan

The first meeting of the Expert Working Group for the development of the National AI Development Plan together with an accompanying Action Plan was held today, 27 May, in Zagreb. The gathering of key experts and stakeholders marked the beginning of a process that includes an analysis of the current situation, the development of strategic priorities and the definition of measures in the field of AI development in Croatia.

‘Development of the National AI Development Plan is crucial for a strategic approach to AI development in Croatia. Given the great success of the private sector in the development of artificial intelligence, it is time for the state to support development and innovation and include the private sector and the academic and civil community in the development of the Plan. I see a key challenge in striking a balance between promoting innovation, growth and research and protecting citizens' rights and data security’, said Minister Damir Habijan in his opening address.

As part of the workshop, presentations were held by Professor Aaron Maniam from the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, one of the key people in the development of global AI policies, and Hrvoje Josip Balen, Pesident of the HUP-ICT Association.

“It’s a real pleasure to be here at this launch event and workshop. AI is such a big issue affecting so many countries, and it is wonderful to know that the Croatian Government is interested to work on a strategy that is holistic and as systematic as possible. What is particularly wonderful is the eagerness in this group that the Ministry of Justice, Administration and Digital Transformation has put together. They are keen to learn from global examples, from each other and to bring many different perspectives together. This learning mindset is really important to be able to keep up with the constant changes that will happen in AI as a technology", said Professor Maniam.

In addition to the presentations, a panel discussion was held on "Unique advantages of Croatia in the AI field" and a thematic group session, the results of which will serve as a basis for the development of the Plan.

The National AI Development Plan for the Period until 2032 and the accompanying Action Plan 2026-2028 will lay the foundation for a focused and responsible development of artificial intelligence in the Republic of Croatia. The goal is to strengthen Croatia’s economic competitiveness, modernise public administration and ensure the protection of citizens' fundamental rights in the digital environment.

The focus is on developing skills and education for AI management and application, digital transformation of the economy and industry, fostering research, innovation and start-ups, and responsible AI application while protecting citizens' rights and privacy.

AI is one of the key technologies of the 21st century, but also a challenge in terms of the protection of human rights. Through the National Plan and Action Plan, Croatia wants to strike a balance between encouraging innovation and preserving the values of a democratic society. The plan will enable targeted public investment, a faster transfer of knowledge into practice and a more efficient digital transformation of all sectors.

The Plan will include clearly defined objectives, concrete measures and implementation mechanisms, with a particular focus on flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic technological environment.

An Expert Working Group was established to draft the National Plan and Action Plan, which comprises representatives of relevant state bodies, academia, industry and civil society.

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