The President of the Republic of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, marked the opening of the conference with the words:  “Security is a fundamental human right, whether national security or individual security. It protects us from human rights violations,  disease, natural disasters, poverty, etc. Moreover, it ensures the well-being of both individuals and communities in all aspects of our lives.  Security allows all of us – including state bodies and institutions, non-governmental  organisations, and civil society – to exchange our knowledge and experience and to collaborate.”

In the following, she also focused on dignity, a fundamental human right. She pointed out that all people are born free and have equal dignity and rights. “Dignity and human rights belong to us as human beings and are not conditioned by gender, skin colour, religion or ethnicity, age, education, social position and power, wealth, merits and achievements, or any other personal circumstance.,” she emphasized. 

As a more important foundation of perspective and development, she highlighted values as life guides and the ethics based on them. »Especially bioethics and morality. Talking about values and ethics, even in connection with scientific and technological progress, is also not enough. It is necessary to implement them in the life of the individual and the community. High ethical principles and values have ensured that knowledge will be used for the benefit of humanity. The essential mechanisms here are the intergenerational transfer of knowledge, values, and ethics, including the greater role of education,« she pointed out. 

The President concluded her speech with the thought of Marcus Aurelius, who said: “Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be one.” She added that learning and empowerment with knowledge is an investment in society that builds bridges between us. 

You are invited to read the full welcome address of the President of the Republic of Slovenia, dr. Nataša Pirc Musar HERE.