Introductory Reflection: 12th National Conference on Local Safety and Security in Slovenj Gradec

The introduction presents Slovenj Gradec as a symbolically and substantively appropriate host city for the 12th National Conference on Safety and Security in Local Communities. As a Messenger City of Peace, it reminds us that security is not merely the absence of danger, but also the presence of trust, dialogue, solidarity, dignity, and the ability of a community to respond responsibly to crises. The Koroška region is a valuable research setting combining a border location, transport remoteness, industrial heritage, environmental vulnerability, demographic change, and strong local ties. Emphasis is put on transport connectivity, the 2023 floods, population ageing, youth outmigration, cybersecurity, and the importance of culture and peace-oriented traditions. The text emphasises that future security challenges will require cooperation among municipalities, police, civil protection, schools, healthcare institutions, researchers, businesses, associations, and residents. The conference is therefore not only a professional event, but also a message: security begins where people live.