Meet Georgios Bastounas, a postdoctoral researcher from Greece whose one-month research stay at the Faculty of Law of Comenius University in Bratislava opened new perspectives on artificial intelligence, criminal law and international academic cooperation. Supported by the National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic, he explored how different legal traditions approach emerging challenges while becoming part of the Slovak academic community.

Could you tell us where you’re from, what your field of research is, and how long you have been (or were) in Slovakia?
I come from Greece, where I currently conduct postdoctoral research at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens after completing my PhD in Criminal Law and Criminology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Alongside my academic work, I practise as a lawyer before the Court of Appeal and teach Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, European Criminal Law and Legal Research Methods at undergraduate and postgraduate level. My research has resulted in more than fifty publications in Greek and international journals and edited volumes, including an academic monograph, and I regularly present my work at international conferences focusing on criminal law, artificial intelligence, human rights and European criminal justice.

In June 2026, I spent one month at the Faculty of Law of Comenius University in Bratislava as a visiting researcher through the National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic. My research project, Artificial Intelligence Systems and Criminal Responsibility: Investigating the Doctrinal and Procedural Challenges of AI-Caused Harm in Criminal Law, examined one of the most challenging questions facing contemporary criminal law: how criminal responsibility should be assessed when harm is caused by increasingly autonomous artificial intelligence systems.

My academic career has already given me the opportunity to undertake research visits at several European universities. My stay at Comenius University added a particularly valuable dimension to this international experience, combining excellent research conditions with an exceptionally welcoming academic community. Looking back, it became much more than a research visit. It was an opportunity to exchange ideas, establish lasting academic collaborations and experience Slovak academic life from the inside.

How has your time in Slovakia supported your research?
My stay in Slovakia had a significant impact on both the direction and quality of my research. Access to comparative legal materials, academic databases and specialised literature strengthened the theoretical foundations of my project, but the greatest benefit came from the continuous exchange of ideas with colleagues working in criminal law and emerging technologies.

Throughout my stay, I held regular academic consultations with Assoc. Prof. Radovan Blažek, who supervised my research, as well as discussions with other members of the Department of Criminal Law, Criminology and Criminalistics. Our conversations frequently extended beyond my original research proposal and developed into broader discussions on criminal responsibility, artificial intelligence, comparative criminal law and future developments within European criminal justice. Looking at familiar legal questions through the perspective of another legal system challenged several of my initial assumptions and encouraged me to rethink parts of my research from a broader comparative perspective.

The stay also enabled me to establish new academic contacts and explore future research collaborations. Comparative legal research is not simply about comparing legislation or case law; it is equally about understanding how scholars from different legal traditions approach similar legal problems. That exchange of perspectives is probably the most valuable outcome I will take back to Greece.

Could you describe your experience working with your research team in Slovakia?
Working with the team at Comenius University was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my research stay. From the very beginning, I never felt like a temporary visitor. Instead, I was welcomed as a colleague and encouraged to become actively involved in the Faculty’s academic life.

Assoc. Prof. Radovan Blažek made every effort to integrate me into the Department’s activities. Whenever there was a conference, seminar, research meeting or academic event related to my interests, he always ensured that I was informed and invited to participate. Thanks to him, I had the opportunity to meet many academics whose research closely aligns with my own interests, creating opportunities for stimulating discussions and laying the foundations for future collaboration.

I also met Assoc. Prof. Ondrej Laciak, Vice-Dean for External Relations, Dr Stanislav Mihálik, Acting Head of the Department of Criminal Law, Criminology and Criminalistics, and several other members of the Faculty. These meetings went far beyond formal introductions; they developed into meaningful discussions on criminal law, artificial intelligence, comparative legal research and future academic cooperation.

Every research stay has its own character. What made my time at Comenius University stand out was the genuine openness of its academic community and the feeling that, even for one month, I was truly part of the Department. That is something I will remember long after the research itself is completed.

How did your research team welcome you to Slovakia?
I could not have asked for a warmer welcome. From my very first day at the Faculty, everyone made me feel that I was not simply visiting the University but becoming part of its academic community.

Beyond helping me settle into the Faculty and introducing me to colleagues, my hosts ensured that I was involved in virtually every activity related to my research interests. Whether it was a conference, a research presentation, a departmental meeting or an academic discussion, they always thought of me and encouraged me to participate. This allowed me to experience academic life in Bratislava from the inside rather than simply observing it as a visitor.

The hospitality extended well beyond the University. My colleagues introduced me to traditional Slovak cuisine, invited me to lunches and dinners, and shared recommendations about places worth visiting around Bratislava. Many of the most interesting conversations about criminal law, research and future projects actually took place outside lecture rooms and conference halls. Those informal moments created an atmosphere in which academic cooperation developed naturally into genuine friendship.

Their generosity, openness and enthusiasm made my stay memorable, and I remain sincerely grateful for the friendships and professional relationships that began during my month in Slovakia.

Have you been able to network with other researchers in Slovakia or Central Europe?
Absolutely. Expanding my academic network was one of the most valuable outcomes of the scholarship. During my stay, I met researchers specialising in criminal law, criminology, artificial intelligence, digital technologies and data protection, both within Comenius University and through the conferences and academic events organised during the month. These discussions generated several ideas, some of which have already started developing into concrete research collaborations.

One particularly encouraging outcome was the opportunity to explore future cooperation in the fields of criminal law, artificial intelligence and comparative legal research, while also exchanging views on broader European legal developments. An additional milestone was the acceptance of my paper for presentation at the Bratislava Legal Forum in September 2026, which means that my cooperation with colleagues at Comenius University will continue beyond the duration of the scholarship.

For me, one of the greatest strengths of international academic mobility is that professional cooperation often develops into long-term academic friendships. I believe my experience in Slovakia is an excellent example of that.

What resources or support have you found particularly helpful for your research in Slovakia?
The Faculty of Law provided an excellent research environment. I had access to specialised legal literature, academic databases and comparative materials that proved highly relevant to my project. Equally valuable was the guidance offered by colleagues, who generously recommended publications, shared research materials and introduced me to recent Slovak scholarship that I might otherwise not have discovered.

Assoc. Prof. Radovan Blažek also directed me towards recent research on artificial intelligence, criminal law and emerging technologies and introduced me to academics working in related fields. These recommendations significantly strengthened the comparative dimension of my project and will undoubtedly be reflected in my future publications.

Perhaps the most valuable resource, however, was not a library or a database, but the people themselves. Some of the most productive moments of my stay took place after conferences, over lunch or during informal conversations with colleagues. Those discussions often generated entirely new research questions and reminded me that the best academic ideas frequently emerge through dialogue.

Has your experience in Slovakia influenced your future career plans?
Without any doubt. My stay reinforced my belief that international academic cooperation is indispensable for addressing contemporary legal challenges, particularly in rapidly evolving fields such as artificial intelligence and criminal law.

The scholarship has already produced tangible results. It strengthened existing collaborations, created new academic partnerships and opened discussions on future comparative research. One particularly encouraging outcome has been the opportunity to begin planning a joint publication with Assoc. Prof. Radovan Blažek on issues related to criminal law. I very much look forward to developing this project together in the coming months. I will also return to Bratislava in September to present another paper at the Bratislava Legal Forum, allowing these collaborations to continue and develop further.

More broadly, the experience confirmed that comparative legal research should remain at the heart of my future academic work. Today’s legal challenges rarely stop at national borders, and meaningful solutions increasingly require dialogue between different legal traditions. My month in Slovakia was therefore not the conclusion of a research project, but the beginning of a much broader international collaboration.

Have you been involved in any conferences, workshops, or academic events during your stay? If so, what was your experience like?
Yes, very actively. One of the most rewarding aspects of my stay was the opportunity to participate in the Faculty’s vibrant academic life. On 11 June 2026, I presented my paper EU External Action and Transnational Organized Crime: Rethinking Human Rights Protection and Criminal Cooperation at the international Jean Monnet conference External Action of the European Union: Contemporary Challenges and Prospects. Although the topic differed from my principal research project, it reflects another of my long-standing research interests: European criminal law, organised crime and human rights protection. I am particularly grateful to Assoc. Prof. Lukáš Mareček, the conference coordinator, for the opportunity to participate and for the excellent organisation of such a stimulating international academic event.

I also attended the final conferences of the ALTAML and ADFIR research projects, which focused on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in judicial decision-making, legal research, digital forensic analysis and cybersecurity. Bringing together academics, judges, public authorities and technology experts, these events offered an outstanding interdisciplinary perspective that directly complemented my own research.

Finally, during my stay I prepared and submitted a conference proposal that was accepted for presentation at the Bratislava Legal Forum in September 2026. For me, this acceptance symbolises exactly what international mobility should achieve: not simply a temporary research visit, but the beginning of lasting academic cooperation.

What motivated you to choose Slovakia for your research stay? Please provide at least three reasons.
Choosing Slovakia was a deliberate academic decision rather than simply a geographical one. My research focuses on the intersection of criminal law and artificial intelligence, an area that increasingly requires comparative perspectives and dialogue between different legal systems.

The Faculty of Law at Comenius University has developed a strong research profile in criminal law while also actively engaging with contemporary legal issues surrounding digital technologies and artificial intelligence. This made it an ideal environment for my project. In addition, the opportunity to work under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Radovan Blažek and to interact with scholars specialising in criminal law and emerging technologies was particularly attractive.

Slovakia also offered an excellent opportunity to better understand Central European legal approaches. Although European legal systems share common principles, each jurisdiction develops its own responses to new legal challenges. Exploring these similarities and differences was one of the main reasons why I chose Bratislava for my research stay.

What has this scholarship experience provided for you, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, the scholarship exceeded my expectations. It enabled me to advance my research, establish new academic collaborations and participate actively in the scientific life of the Faculty. Throughout the month, I had the opportunity to present my research, attend international conferences, exchange ideas with colleagues and develop plans for future projects that will continue after my return to Greece.

Equally important was the personal dimension of the experience. Living and working in another country, even for only one month, allows you to see academia from a different perspective. You quickly realise that research is not only about books and articles but also about conversations, trust and the people willing to share their knowledge and experience.

The scholarship therefore offered much more than financial support. It created the conditions for meaningful academic cooperation while allowing me to experience Slovak culture and everyday life in a very authentic way.

Would you recommend the National Scholarship Programme (or other programmes) to other researchers?
Without hesitation.The National Scholarship Programme offers much more than an opportunity to spend time abroad. It provides researchers with access to an excellent academic environment while encouraging genuine international cooperation. From my own experience, I felt encouraged not only to continue my own research but also to become part of the academic community at the host institution.

I was particularly impressed by the professionalism of the programme’s administration. Communication with SAIA was always prompt, clear and supportive, making every stage of the mobility process straightforward.

For young researchers especially, I believe the Programme offers an excellent opportunity to broaden their academic horizons, establish international contacts and develop collaborations that may continue long after the scholarship itself has ended.

What do you consider the most rewarding aspect of this scholarship?
Without question, the people. Research projects eventually come to an end, papers are published and conferences finish. The professional relationships and friendships that develop during an international mobility experience, however, often last much longer.

What made my stay particularly memorable was the openness and generosity of the people I met. My colleagues welcomed me not only into the Faculty but also into their everyday academic life. Whether discussing research after a conference, sharing a traditional Slovak meal or simply exchanging ideas over coffee, they made me feel genuinely included rather than temporarily hosted.

Looking back, these human connections became just as valuable as the academic achievements of the month.

Did the scholarship programme help you connect with local researchers and institutions?
Absolutely. During my stay I established contacts with academics working in criminal law, criminology, artificial intelligence and European law, many of whom I met through conferences, departmental meetings and research discussions at the Faculty of Law.

Several of these conversations have already developed into plans for future cooperation, including conference participation, comparative research and potential joint publications. Since many of us work on related legal questions from different national perspectives, these collaborations have the potential to produce research that is both academically stronger and practically more relevant.

For me, one of the greatest successes of the scholarship is that it created a network which will continue well beyond the duration of the mobility itself.

How has your scholarship experience in Slovakia influenced your perspective on international research collaboration?
I believe international collaboration is no longer simply an advantage. It has become a necessity, particularly in fields such as criminal law and artificial intelligence.

The legal challenges created by emerging technologies rarely remain confined within national borders. Questions concerning artificial intelligence, cybercrime, data protection or digital evidence are increasingly discussed at European and international level. Addressing these issues therefore requires continuous dialogue between researchers from different jurisdictions.

My experience in Slovakia confirmed exactly that. Working with colleagues from another legal tradition allowed me to test ideas, reconsider assumptions and identify new research questions that I would probably not have explored working alone. International mobility creates opportunities not only to exchange knowledge but also to develop lasting academic partnerships, and I believe these partnerships are among the most valuable outcomes of any research stay.

Are there any activities or places in Slovakia that you would recommend to others?
Although my primary purpose in Slovakia was research, I managed to discover several places that I would happily recommend to anyone visiting the country. Bratislava is an ideal city for a research stay: compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of history, culture and vibrant academic life.

One of my favourite places was Devín Castle. Standing above the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers, it offers spectacular views and reminds visitors how geography and history have shaped Central Europe. I also enjoyed simply walking through Bratislava’s Old Town after finishing my work at the Faculty. It has a unique atmosphere, especially in the evenings, when the streets become lively without ever feeling overcrowded.

Of course, no visit would be complete without spending some time along the Danube. Whether walking, having coffee or simply taking a break after a long day of research, it quickly became one of my favourite places to relax.

Bratislava’s location also makes it an ideal base for discovering Central Europe. If time allows, short trips to nearby cities such as Vienna and Budapest are an added bonus that makes the overall experience even more memorable.

Do you have any favorite spots here? Could you share your recommendations?
Surprisingly, my favourite place was not one of the places I had planned to visit before arriving.

I particularly enjoyed walking across the Most SNP Bridge and the UFO Observation Deck, especially in the evening. The panoramic view of Bratislava Castle, St Martin’s Cathedral and the Danube from the opposite side of the river is simply spectacular. After long days of research, crossing the bridge and seeing the city from that perspective became one of my favourite daily routines.

I also loved wandering through Bratislava’s historic centre, where every walk seemed to reveal another interesting street, café or historical building.

Do you think you’ll return to Slovakia someday?
Definitely. In fact, I already have a good reason to return, as I will be back in Bratislava in September to present my research at the Bratislava Legal Forum.

Beyond that, I sincerely hope this will not be my last academic visit. During my stay I established collaborations that I would like to develop further, and I very much look forward to working again with my colleagues at Comenius University. Returning will therefore feel less like visiting a new place and more like meeting friends and collaborators again.

How have you found Slovak people? Are they welcoming and helpful to you as an international researcher, or did you face any challenges?
Without hesitation, their kindness and openness. Before arriving, I expected to meet excellent researchers. What I did not expect was to feel so genuinely welcomed from the very first day. Everyone was approachable, generous with their time and always willing to help, whether the discussion concerned my research, Slovak culture or simply everyday life in Bratislava.

What impressed me most was that hospitality never felt formal or obligatory. It came naturally. My colleagues made sure I never felt like a visitor passing through the Faculty. Instead, they involved me in academic discussions, conferences and even introduced me to Slovak traditions and cuisine. Those small gestures made a remarkable difference and transformed a research stay into a truly memorable personal experience.

What surprised you the most about Slovakia? Did you experience any culture shock?
I must admit that Bratislava surprised me in several ways. Before arriving, I expected Bratislava to be a pleasant but relatively quiet capital, often overshadowed by nearby Vienna and Budapest. After spending a month there, I realised it deserves to be a destination in its own right.

I was also pleasantly surprised by how peaceful, clean and well-organised the city is. Everything seemed remarkably accessible, making it easy to balance research with everyday life. That calm atmosphere made it much easier to concentrate on my work while still finding time to enjoy the city.

Perhaps the biggest surprise, however, was how quickly Slovakia stopped feeling unfamiliar. By the end of the month, it felt less like a country I was visiting and more like a place I was already planning to return to.

How do you like Slovak cuisine? What is your favorite Slovak dish, if you’ve tried any?
Very much. Probably more than I had anticipated! My colleagues kindly introduced me to several traditional Slovak dishes, which made discovering the local cuisine even more enjoyable. I had the opportunity to try bryndzové halušky, bryndzové pirohy, lokše and vyprážaný syr, each offering a different glimpse into Slovak culinary traditions.

Food also became an excellent way to continue academic discussions outside the University. Some of the most interesting conversations about research, future projects and comparative criminal law took place over lunch or dinner rather than in meeting rooms.

By the end of the month, I had reached one scientific conclusion with complete certainty: declining an invitation to try another traditional Slovak dish would have been a serious research mistake.

Have you found any similarities between Slovakia and your home country?
Despite their geographical distance, I found more similarities than I had expected. Both countries place great importance on hospitality, personal relationships and genuine human interaction. In academic life especially, I felt that people genuinely value conversation, collaboration and taking the time to get to know one another beyond formal meetings. That made me feel surprisingly at home.

Of course, there are cultural differences, but I believe hospitality, openness and the importance of personal relationships are qualities shared by both Slovaks and Greeks. Perhaps that is why I adapted so quickly during my stay.

What advice would you give to other international researchers for adapting to life in Slovakia?
My advice would be simple: don’t limit your experience to your research project. Use the opportunity to attend conferences, introduce yourself to colleagues, ask questions, accept invitations and explore the country whenever possible. Some of the most valuable experiences of my stay came from conversations that had never been scheduled and opportunities I had not originally planned.

And finally, don’t be surprised if one month feels far too short. Mine certainly did. In fact, before leaving Bratislava, I was already planning my return. Fortunately, I won’t have to wait very long—I’ll be back inin Bratislava this September.