The University of Dubrovnik hosted a regional Expert Group Meeting on artificial intelligence and the future of industrial development, co-organised with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The meeting brought together experts from Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia to exchange insights on how artificial intelligence is transforming industry, production processes, labour markets, and the development prospects of transition economies.
The discussion focused on practical ways in which AI can be used to increase productivity, strengthen firm competitiveness, modernise production, and develop new industrial capabilities. Particular attention was given to the challenges posed by accelerated digital transformation for governments, enterprises, and development institutions, especially in countries that must simultaneously narrow technological, industrial, and environmental development gaps.
The Dubrovnik meeting forms part of UNIDO’s broader process of gathering expert insights and recommendations for the preparation of the new edition of the Industrial Development Report (IDR), one of the most important global reports on industrial development. The forthcoming edition is dedicated to the role of artificial intelligence in future industrial development, with particular emphasis on its impact on production, innovation, employment, productivity, and economic growth.
The University of Dubrovnik is involved in this process through the team of the CREDO research centre, led by Prof. Nebojša Stojčić, PhD. Cooperation with UNIDO continues the collaboration established during the preparation of the Industrial Development Report 2026, UNIDO’s flagship publication, in which the University contributed as UNIDO’s regional expert for Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus. The team prepared a regional analysis of industrial trends, structural constraints, technological and development gaps, and growth opportunities in the countries covered by the study.
One of the key messages of the discussion was that artificial intelligence can generate meaningful development impact only when it is connected to the concrete needs of enterprises, industrial sectors, and public policies. Participants emphasised the importance of investing in digital skills, data and computing infrastructure, green technologies, innovation ecosystems, and public policies that enable firms to use AI not only as a tool, but as a lever for productivity and industrial upgrading.
The conclusions and recommendations from the Dubrovnik discussions will be included in the final stage of the report’s preparation and will contribute to the development of international guidance for policymakers, industry, and development institutions. Hosting this meeting in Dubrovnik further confirms the role of the University of Dubrovnik as a partner in international discussions on industrial transformation, innovation, and sustainable development.
