European Experts Gathered in Celje to Discuss Demographic Challenges, Talent Attraction, and the Future of Cities
How can a city be shaped so that people see their future there, choose to stay, create, and develop their potential? This question is increasingly at the heart of European debates on demographic change, workforce shortages, and the outflow of talent, all of which significantly affect the development of many cities and regions. On 22 and 23 September 2026, Celje hosted an international expert event organised within the framework of the European Urban Initiative (EUI), bringing together representatives of European institutions, cities, research organisations, and experts from across Europe.
The event focused on creating conditions that enable people to build their future within their local communities. Participants discussed the impact of demographic change on urban development, housing affordability, sustainable mobility, energy communities, and other factors that influence quality of life and the attractiveness of cities and regions.
Opening the event, Matija Kovač, Mayor of the City Municipality of Celje, emphasised that cities today face not only the challenge of economic development, but also the task of creating environments where people want to live, work, and thrive: “Through the MAG-NET project, co-funded by the European Urban Initiative, we are connecting ideas and policy areas that help address the challenges of talent attraction and urban shrinkage. We approach these issues through integrated housing policies, sustainable mobility, energy communities, the overall urban atmosphere, and stronger cooperation between businesses, educational institutions, and the city. I am pleased that Celje can serve as a place for the exchange of knowledge and good practices as we work together to shape solutions for the future of our cities.”
The selection of Celje as host of this international event confirms that the MAG-NET Alliance and its collaborative approach are gaining recognition at the European level. The initiative is built on the belief that attracting and retaining talent is not solely a municipal responsibility, but a challenge that requires the engagement of the entire community. Monika Tominšek, Head of the Development, Projects and Economy Service at the City Municipality of Celje and MAG-NET Co-Lead, highlighted the importance of cooperation among different stakeholders: “The MAG-NET Alliance has helped us look at the attractiveness of our city from a different perspective. Our goal is not to compete with larger cities, but to create an environment where people can live well and see their future. That is why we view the MAG-NET Alliance as much more than a time-limited European project. It is an opportunity to establish a new model of cooperation between the municipality, businesses, educational institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders working together to develop solutions for the city’s future.”
Tanja Tamše, MAG-NET Co-Lead and Expert Associate at the City Municipality of Celje, also stressed that demographic change is one of the key development challenges facing many European cities: “Celje is a good example, as it faces demographic challenges similar to those of many other European cities. Through the MAG-NET Alliance, we are working to make Celje a magnet for people, talent, and businesses. Creating an attractive city cannot be the responsibility of the municipality alone. Sustainable solutions can emerge only through cooperation among businesses, educational institutions, public institutions, and residents who together create the conditions that encourage people to stay or return.”
As part of the study visits, participants also explored several of Celje’s key development initiatives and innovation hubs. They visited GT8, Tehnopark Celje, the Savinja Region Incubator, the Celje Youth Centre, and the future site of DOM Creative Communities, which will serve as an important meeting point for creativity, knowledge, and collaboration in Celje.
