Can artificial intelligence invent in Slovenia?
Abstract
The rapid development of artificial intelligence in recent years has sparked global debate on whether non-human systems can be recognised as inventors under patent law. This paper examines the Slovenian legal framework to determine if AIgenerated inventions can be protected within the existing system of intellectual property rights. It analyses the Slovenian Industrial Property Act and the Copyright Act, and further European Union patent legislation - European Patent Convention. Findings of this paper show that artificial intelligence can invent but cannot act as an inventor, although the Slovenian Industrial Property Act does not explicitly define an inventor as a natural person and may therefore leave the door open for non-human entities. This study contributes to broader debates on how small jurisdictions such as Slovenia face the challenges posed by artificial intelligence-driven innovation.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Law
AI
and Intellectual Property
Intellectual Property Law
Digitalization
and Regulation
Publication details
- Journal / source
- DiRROS repository (University of Maribor)
- Publication date
- 3 February 2026
- Language
- EN