1. Policy-induced welfare losses from limited decumulation options : the case of Slovenia’s DC pensionsDino Šterpin, Suzana Laporšek, Boštjan Vovk, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: This study examines restricted decumulation options for retirees with Defined Contribution (DC) in Slovenia and shows how these constraints create an implicit tax on accumulated assets. Using the Money’s Worth framework, we find that Slovenian annuities offer lower value than comparable products in advanced markets. We develop a utility-based model with loss aversion to quantify welfare losses across eight retiree types, differing in loss aversion, bequest motive, replacement rate, and time preference. Seven out of eight retiree types achieve higher utility under currently unavailable strategies. We introduce the Implicit Tax on DC Assets to capture the opportunity cost of restricted product availability.
Keywords: decumulation strategies, defined contribution pensions, loss-aversion utility, money’s-worth ratio, Slovenia, utility-equivalent wealth
Published in RUP: 20.04.2026; Views: 306; Downloads: 12
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2. Do agri-environmental schemes reduce farm greenhouse gas emissions? : evidence from SloveniaŠtefan Bojnec, Imre Fertő, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture is a key objective of the European Union's Green Deal and is among considerations of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Agri-environmental schemes (AES) are the main CAP instruments to promote more sustainable farming, yet their short-term climate effectiveness remains uncertain. This study provides the first farm-level evidence for Slovenia on whether AES participation reduces GHG emission intensity and whether effects differ across production systems. Using a balanced panel of 227 farms from the Farm Accountancy Data Network (2014–2021), we estimate dynamic treatment effects of AES adoption on net carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions per hectare, applying modern difference-in-differences (DiD) estimators for staggered adoption and extensive robustness checks, including alternative estimators, placebo tests, and dynamic conditioning. Results show that AES adopters had higher pre-adoption emission intensity, consistent with targeted uptake by higher-emission farms. However, estimated reductions in emission intensity during the first one to two years after adoption are small, statistically insignificant, and robust across specifications. These findings suggest that broad, practice-based AES may not deliver immediate, measurable climate benefits at the farm level, either because effects take longer to materialize or because current schemes are insufficiently targeted to high-emission sources. Policies that combine more precise targeting, climate-specific measures, and long-term monitoring may be needed to unlock the full climate mitigation potential of AES.
Keywords: agri-environmental schemes, greenhouse gas emissions, difference-in-differences, agricultural policy evaluation, Slovenia
Published in RUP: 13.04.2026; Views: 260; Downloads: 10
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3. A new wildlife monitoring app in Slovenia : a pilot evaluation of data quality and useŽiga Velkavrh, Luka Duniš, Boštjan Pokorny, Hubert Potočnik, Elena Bužan, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: Wildlife monitoring is crucial for successful conservation and management of wildlife populations. To support modern wildlife monitoring approaches in Slovenia, we developed SRNA, a nationwide citizen science appli- cation that collects additional metadata on several terrestrial vertebrate species. The app is designed for two groups of citizen scientists, hunters and other nature observers. To foster learning, it features a photo-based wildlife identification quiz and species identification guides. This pilot study evaluated app use and data quality with two aims: (1) to assess users’ ability to identify wildlife species from photos, focusing on taxa expected to be challenging to identify, and to test whether identification accuracy varies across mammal groups; (2) to analyse wildlife observation data submitted through SRNA. Users were successful in identifying several distinctive species but had some difficulty distinguishing between certain mustelids, and between golden jackal and grey wolf, indicating priorities for targeted educational campaigns. Biology-related educational background facilitated identification of mustelids and, to a lesser extent, canids. In its first year, SRNA collected 1633 observations via 742 reports, predominantly of European roe deer. Hunters and nature observers contributed complementary data: differences were observed not only in the number of reported species and amount of data they provided, but also in reporting patterns across biogeo- graphic regions, reporting rates, and the average delay time between encounters and submissions. This study demonstrates that SRNA provides promising complementary data for wildlife monitoring, but also highlights data quality limitations (biases and verification issues) that must be taken into account when using SRNA data.
Keywords: application for wildlife monitoring, citizen science, mammals, Slovenia, SRNA app, Wildlife identification quiz
Published in RUP: 08.04.2026; Views: 313; Downloads: 12
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4. Slovenia’s social sustainability achievements : an examination of local perspectives and satisfaction levelsVinod Sasidharan, Dejan Križaj, Drenicka Quiogue, Justin Aquino, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: Slovenia is regarded as a nation which has prioritized green innovations, social responsibility, and its commitment to sustainable development. Although Slovenia’s environmental achievements have received national visibility, local awareness of its social sustainability initiatives has been limited. This study examined perspectives and satisfaction levels among residents regarding Slovenia’s social sustainability achievements and associated sustainable development goals (4, 10, and 16). Utilizing a survey, these perceptions were assessed among respondents from three distinct regions–Ljubljana, Novo Mesto, and Koper, respectively. Frequency tests indicated that quality education, ethnic integration, and effective governance/partnerships were perceived as being important to achieving social sustainability. From a Chi-square analysis, a positive correlation was revealed between educational level and knowledge of national sustainability initiatives. A Spearman’s rho test showed that age had an influence on satisfaction with ethnic integration. The study provides insights into the social sustainability perspectives of Slovene society and offers implications for future research.
Keywords: Slovenia, residents, perceptions, social sustainability
Published in RUP: 19.03.2026; Views: 302; Downloads: 9
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5. Social robots disruptive artificial intelligence educational technology : pre-service teachers’ perceptions in China, Russia and SloveniaAndreja Istenič, Liliya Latypova, Violeta Rosanda, Žiga Turk, Roza Alexeyevna Valeeva, Xuesong Zhai, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: Artificial intelligence transforms human learning and education. Social robots in the elementary classroom enter the human sphere in the critical period of child’s development. Social robotic educational technology, designed for long-term emotional connections and relationships, raises questions in the pedagogic relations and interaction. Research on teacher perceptions and readiness is deficient. This paper reports analyses of aspects of child-social robot interaction are of concern to pre-service teachers from China, Russia and Slovenia. Findings indicate that at the heart of participating pre-service teachers in China, Russia and Slovania concerns are authenticity and humanness. Our findings show their concerns are mainly rooted in the belief that the robot shouldnot acquire the ability to perform authentic interactions nor should undertake a teaching roles. There is a widespread agreement among participants from three cultural contexts that teachers remain essential in educational contexts. In contrast, concerns related to social Interaction indicate notable group differences. The article highlights the teacher’s responsible planning and use of artificial intelligence educational technology.
Keywords: pre-service teachers, artificial intelligence, social robot, humanoid robot, anthropomorphic robot, educational technology, concerns scale, China, Russia, Slovenia
Published in RUP: 16.03.2026; Views: 386; Downloads: 6
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6. The Slovene Composer Ivo Petrić and Društvo slovenskih skladateljevNiall O’Loughlin, 2026, independent scientific component part or a chapter in a monograph Abstract: After the Second World War Slovene composers formed a society to organise and coordinate all their activities. Gradually the progress in publishing and making Slovene music available for performance was considerable. In 1972 the composer Ivo Petrić was appointed to Secretary of the Society of Slovene Composers (Društvo slovenskih skladateljev, abbreviated to DSS). He was active in increasing the numbers of works published, the large library of orchestral works for hire and later the recording of numerous works. Petrić was a very important model for his colleagues. Not only did he work tirelessly for all the composers of the society, but he also formed the Slavko Osterc Ensemble to perform mostly new Slovene chamber ensemble works and to record them. As a composer he produced many interesting and impressive works. Early symphonies taking some influence from Hindemith and Prokofiev were followed by a period using techniques from the Polish avant-garde. Later he returned to more traditional techniques. His contribution to the development of serious Slovene music has been very important, with DSS now thriving in all its aspects.
Keywords: Composers societies, Society of Slovene Composers, Društvo slovenskih skladateljev, Ivo Petrić, Slavko Osterc Ensemble, Edicije DSS, Music in Slovenia
Published in RUP: 10.03.2026; Views: 367; Downloads: 8
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7. Ethical aspects of using AI among occupational psychologists : a pilot studyŠpela Bizjan, Ana Arzenšek, 2025, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: Psychologists, specializing in work and organizational psychology (occupational psychologists), play a crucial role in the implementation and development of Human resource management (HRM) processes, which are increasingly affected by artificial intelligence (AI). This research aims to examine how and why AI is utilized among occupational psychologists, as well as the ethical dilemmas associated with this use in relation to the Code of Professional Ethics for Psychologists (the Code). The empirical part of this pilot study is based on a qualitative research design. 6 semi-structured interviews based on 11 questions regarding the use of AI in occupational psychologists’ work were conducted. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. The study results reveal that AI plays a vital role in automating routine administrative tasks. Participants highlighted its contribution to time efficiency and its utility in language translation. Nonetheless, concerns arise regarding increases in the occupational psychologists’ workload, as human oversight is required to ensure the accuracy and reliability of AI. While AI promises objectivity, participants cautioned that algorithms can be biased, potentially leading to discriminatory practices. They also expressed concerns about accountability. This question is pivotal, as the Code mandates the maintenance of professional boundaries and the respect for individuals' rights. Participants also pointed to risks associated with data protection. Despite this awareness, participants admitted they do not rely on the Code in their work with AI, which increases the risk of unethical decision-making. It is recommended that organizations provide adequate training for AI users, regulate data input, and ensure its use in accordance with ethical guidelines. The Slovenian Psychologists’ Association has a pivotal role in the preparation of specific guidelines and advising occupational psychologists on the ethical use of AI.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, AI integration in HRM, Code of professional ethics for psychologists, ethics in human resource processes, occupational psychologists, Slovenia
Published in RUP: 04.03.2026; Views: 368; Downloads: 7
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8. Ethical Aspects of Using AI among Occupational Psychologists : A Pilot StudyŠpela Bizjan, 2025, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: Psychologists, specializing in work and organizational psychology (occupational psychologists), play a crucial role in the implementation and development of Human resource management (HRM) processes, which are increasingly affected by artificial intelligence (AI). This research aims to examine how and why AI is utilized among occupational psychologists, as well as the ethical dilemmas associated with this use in relation to the Code of Professional Ethics for Psychologists (the Code). The empirical part of this pilot study is based on a qualitative research design. 6 semi-structured interviews based on 11 questions regarding the use of AI in occupational psychologists’ work were conducted. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. The study results reveal that AI plays a vital role in automating routine administrative tasks. Participants highlighted its contribution to time efficiency and its utility in language translation. Nonetheless, concerns arise regarding increases in the occupational psychologists’ workload, as human oversight is required to ensure the accuracy and reliability of AI. While AI promises objectivity, participants cautioned that algorithms can be biased, potentially leading to discriminatory practices. They also expressed concerns about accountability. This question is pivotal, as the Code mandates the maintenance of professional boundaries and the respect for individuals' rights. Participants also pointed to risks associated with data protection. Despite this awareness, participants admitted they do not rely on the Code in their work with AI, which increases the risk of unethical decision-making. It is recommended that organizations provide adequate training for AI users, regulate data input, and ensure its use in accordance with ethical guidelines. The Slovenian Psychologists’ Association has a pivotal role in the preparation of specific guidelines and advising occupational psychologists on the ethical use of AI.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, AI Integration in HRM, Code of Professional Ethics for Psychologists, Ethics in Human Resource Processes, Occupational Psychologists, Slovenia
Published in RUP: 04.03.2026; Views: 336; Downloads: 11
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9. The Hidden Workforce : Employment and Health Impacts of Informal Caregiving in SloveniaNina Ponikvar, Sara Ražman, Tjaša Redek, Mojca Bavdaž, Petra Došenović Bonča, 2025, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: This paper investigates the employment status, demographic characteristics, and health outcomes of informal caregivers in Slovenia. Using data from the Workability Questionnaire, conducted in February 2025 with a representative sample of 1,000 individuals aged 25–75 years, we analyze how caregiving correlates with employment patterns and caregivers’ own health issues. Through statistical testing, we compare informal caregivers with non-caregivers to identify potential disparities in labor market participation and health status. This study contributes to the economic and policy discourse by offering new insights into the demographic and employment characteristics of informal caregivers in Slovenia. Additionally, it provides empirical evidence necessary for estimating the societal costs of informal care, which is crucial for integrating informal care into economic evaluations of health and social care programs. However, the study has some limitations. First, the cross-sectional nature of the data prevents causal inference regarding the relationship between caregiving and employment or health outcomes. Second, we are aware that the self-reported nature of the Workability Questionnaire may introduce response biases, particularly regarding health status and caregiving intensity.
Keywords: informal care, employment, heath status, Slovenia
Published in RUP: 04.03.2026; Views: 338; Downloads: 10
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10. Second homes as an interdisciplinary research topic : a COBISS system based analysis of diploma theses in the Slovenian tertiary educationMiha Koderman, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: The article examines second homes as an interdisciplinary research topic by situating them within contemporary conceptualisations of second homes as enduring socio-spatial phenomena through a systematic analysis of the diploma theses in the Slovenian tertiary education. The study, based on a COBISS database, identified 64 students’ bachelor's and master's theses and doctoral dissertations that focus on the topic of second homes. Most of these theses could be classified into six disciplinary domains: architecture and landscape architecture (20), construction–energy technology–geodesy (13), geography (10), design and interior design (9), economy and tourism (5), and ethnology and cultural anthropology (3). The publication of the theses spans over more than four decades, demonstrating the long-term continuity and evolving thematic diversity of second-home research, while the research reveals that second homes represent one of the most enduring, diverse, and interdisciplinary topics. Geography has played a pioneering and sustaining role, providing conceptual and methodological foundations for understanding second homes as spatial processes linked to leisure mobility, landscape transformation, and tourism development, which have influenced research in other disciplines.
Keywords: second homes, diploma theses, tertiary education, COBISS system analysis, Slovenia
Published in RUP: 12.02.2026; Views: 434; Downloads: 4
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