The CROSS-REIS project was represented at the XIV International Scientific Conference New Economy 2026, held on 11–12 June 2026 at the National Louis University in Nowy Sącz, Poland. Organized by the Oikos Institute – Research Center Bijeljina and an international network of academic partners, the conference gathered researchers and experts from across Europe and beyond to discuss the challenges and opportunities arising from digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and the evolving global economy.
Held under the theme “New Horizons: Digital Economy and Responses to a Changing World,” the conference explored topics including digital transformation, artificial intelligence, labour market changes, digital inclusion, and new economic models. Researchers from universities and institutions in Poland, Portugal, Ukraine, Turkey, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Romania, Serbia, and several other countries contributed to the scientific programme.
The Faculty of Economics, University of Niš, a CROSS-REIS partner institution, was represented by Prof. Žarko Popović, Vice-Dean, and Prof. Snežana Radukić. Prof. Popović participated in the conference opening and welcomed participants on behalf of the Faculty of Economics, University of Niš, highlighting the importance of international scientific cooperation and knowledge exchange in addressing contemporary economic and societal challenges.
As part of the plenary programme, Prof. Snežana Radukić delivered the keynote presentation “Labor Market Challenges in Business Transformation by AI: Empirical Experience of Selected European Countries.” Her presentation examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping labour markets across Europe, focusing on changes in skills demand, employment structures, and workforce adaptation. Drawing on empirical evidence from selected European countries, the research highlighted both opportunities and challenges associated with AI-driven business transformation.
Participation in New Economy 2026 contributed to the objectives of the CROSS-REIS project by strengthening international academic networks, promoting interdisciplinary dialogue, and disseminating research related to innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable economic development. The event provided valuable opportunities for exchanging ideas with scholars from diverse disciplines and for identifying potential avenues for future research collaboration.
Through its participation in international scientific events such as New Economy 2026, CROSS-REIS continues to advance research excellence and contribute to discussions on how emerging technologies and innovation can support resilient, inclusive, and regenerative economic systems.