Polona Merc

Polona is Head of International Cooperation at the Information Commissioner of the Republic of Slovenia. Her professional focus is primarily on the protection of personal data in the digital age. She has participated in numerous international projects both in Slovenia and abroad, focusing on personal data protection, freedom of expression, freedom of information, and human rights in general (within EU projects and in collaboration with international NGOs and universities). She publishes professional articles and delivers speeches at personal data protection events. She is also the co-author of commentaries on the Personal Data Protection Act (2024) and the Patients’ Rights Act (2025).

 

TALK

Digital Childhood: Safe Use of Technology in the Age of Algorithms

Children in Slovenia tend to be very active users of technology, including AI tools and social media. Research by Safe.si shows that most young people use AI, often daily, while being only partially aware of the risks to privacy and personal data protection. This presentation will focus on the practical aspects of teaching children about the challenges of using technology in the age of algorithms. To support educators, the Information Commissioner has developed a range of tools, including ready-to-use lesson plans and materials, the board game ‘Mission IP’ (Misija IP), entertaining video content featuring a well-known Slovenian actor, and other educational resources.