Yesterday marked the beginning of the twelfth edition of the NetWork conference, which, from the outset, reaffirmed its status as not only the largest but also the most relevant business-technology event in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region. The three-day event, traditionally organized in Neum by the Communis agency, gathered over 1,100 experts, innovators, and business leaders to discuss the latest technologies, challenges, and opportunities in the business world. The slogan of this year’s conference, “The Power of Connection,” highlights the importance of connecting ideas, people, and technologies to create new solutions and opportunities in a digitally oriented society.
The first day of the conference, known as Business Day, brought key discussions on digitalization across various sectors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, focusing on innovations in eCommerce, healthcare, financial services, and the digitalization of public administration services.
The day’s first panel, titled “eCommerce Matrix: European Level vs. BiH Reality – Which Pill Are We Choosing?”, explored the challenges and opportunities for the development of eCommerce in the country compared to more advanced European markets. The discussion provided insights into how local companies can adapt European digital business models and address domestic challenges.
The healthcare digitalization panel, titled “eHealth in Bosnia and Herzegovina – A Bridge Between Innovation and Patient Care,” showcased the potential that digital solutions bring to improving the healthcare system in BiH, with a particular focus on telemedicine services and digital health records.
The afternoon program began with a panel titled “Step Forward or Stalemate? Regulatory Challenges in the Evolution of Digital Banking,” which addressed important legislative changes that enable the further development of digital financial services in BiH, such as the adoption of the Electronic Money Law and regulations related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. This was followed by a discussion with FinTech experts titled “Exploring Beyond Borders,” where participants shared their experiences on global trends in the development of the FinTech ecosystem and how these trends can be applied in the Bosnian market.
One of the key sessions was a discussion on how the European Union supports the digitalization of the private and public sectors in BiH, with particular emphasis on projects such as e-Wallet, a system for electronic identification of citizens. The discussion also covered how BiH can join these initiatives and use EU funds for further digitalization.
Progress in the digitalization of public administration was the focus of the panel titled “Digitalization of Public Administration Services: What Has Been Achieved and What Lies Ahead?” The discussion covered concrete results, with panelists reflecting on achievements and challenges set during last year’s conference. Particular emphasis was placed on the improved flow of documents between institutions and the introduction of digital certificates, as well as the challenges of full digital transformation that need to be overcome for digital services to become fully functional and accessible to citizens. We also learned about the progress in the use of digital certificates for the business community in BiH, which submits VAT returns and participates in international trade in and out of BiH.
The official part of the day concluded with inspiring keynote speeches that provided insights into the latest trends in the fields of cybersecurity, public service digitalization, and technological innovations. Paula Januszkiewicz, one of the most renowned cybersecurity experts, highlighted key threats and solutions in data protection, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation in this sector. Damir Dizdarević, content director of the Network conference and director of Logosoft d.o.o. Sarajevo, presented key features of today’s technological trends and important topics for the next two days of the conference. Almir Badnjević, director of the Agency for Identification Documents, Registers, and Data Exchange of BiH (IDDEEA), shared insights into the progress of public service digitalization, highlighting the transformation of IDDEEA from an organization known primarily for issuing passports and ID cards into a key player in the process of digitalizing services for BiH citizens. The presentations clearly demonstrated that technological progress comes through the synergy of technology, policy, and the needs of citizens.
After a rich daily program, participants enjoyed an evening party with a performance by the band Blackberries, whose infectious energy and rhythm captivated everyone in attendance. But this is just the beginning; over the next two days of the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend more than 90 high-quality lectures spread across six stages. Over 100 prominent domestic and international speakers, with extensive practical and teaching experience, will present the latest trends and innovations. And as a grand finale, tomorrow’s exclusive concert by Gibonni promises an unforgettable musical experience that will enhance the atmosphere of the conference.
The conference is supported by platinum sponsors Aircash, Logosoft, and Wiener osiguranje VIG, along with many other sponsors, partners, and friends of the conference. It will run until October 25, 2024, and in addition to the opportunity to gain new knowledge, NetWork offers an excellent chance to expand business connections and establish new collaborations.
