The thirteenth edition of the NetWork conference, one of the largest and most relevant business and technology events in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, has officially begun in Neum.

The three-day program, traditionally organized by the Communis agency, has brought together leaders from the IT industry, representatives of institutions and companies, as well as those who follow the rhythm of change — people who understand that digital transformation is no longer a topic of the future, but a reality shaping every decision, process, and market. This year’s slogan, TEChTONIC CHANGES, is not just a catchy metaphor, but an accurate description of what’s really happening: the changes are deep, systemic, and unstoppable.

The first day, known as Business Day, offered exactly what we’ve come to expect from NetWork — relevant topics, open discussions, and sincere insights that connect technology and society. From cybersecurity to digital governance, from financial innovation to the telecom industry, the program delivered a layered picture of the transformation unfolding before our eyes.

In the Grand Hotel Neum hall, the atmosphere was one of focused attention — the kind that arises when the audience isn’t just listening to hear, but to truly understand. Senad Džananović, Director of Cybersecurity at ZIRA, opened the day with the lecture “Cyber Disruption: When Security Becomes Your Competitive Advantage”, reminding everyone that trust is the new currency of the digital age. He didn’t talk about technical protocols, but about a business philosophy where security becomes a mark of seriousness and credibility.

After the opening lecture, a conversation followed with Mr. Igor Ljubi, from the Ministry of Justice, Administration and Digital Transformation of the Republic of Croatia, who shared his experiences on developing digital public services in a discussion with journalist Maja Miralem. Drawing from examples in Croatia, he showed that the digital transformation of institutions doesn’t depend solely on technology, but also on a clear vision, political will, and a culture of accountability.

The panel “The New Rhythm of the Financial Sector” explored the topic of trust in financial services — trust that is no longer built through advertising, but through the quality of digital experience. Jasmin Spahić (Addiko Bank), Borislav Doder (Wiener Insurance VIG), and Merima Mahmutović (PwC) spoke about an industry balancing regulation and innovation, striving to maintain stability at a time when technology is breaking all familiar patterns.

The discussion that sparked the most engagement from the audience was the panel “Telecoms in BiH and the Region – What’s on the Horizon?” Moderated by Emina Burdžović, it turned into an open dialogue about the future of the entire industry. Directors of BH Telecom, JP Hrvatske Telekomunikacije d.d. Mostar, and Mtel Group spoke candidly about acquisitions, market competitiveness, and the role of artificial intelligence in telecom operations. In an era of rapid change, the telecom industry remains the backbone of digital development and connectivity.

As the sun set over Neum, the conference shifted tone — numbers and charts gave way to emotion. Zlatan Stipišić Gibonni returned to NetWork, this time as a storyteller and guest speaker, sharing a story of music, books, and technology from a completely new perspective. In a conversation with Maja Miralem about his book “The Tree: Stories About Songs”, he spoke about what technology cannot replicate — human emotion and the sincerity of creation. His words, “Emotion can’t pass through pixels,” reminded the audience that no technology, no matter how advanced, can replace the human element in creativity and communication.

The evening Keynote segment was, quite literally, a fusion of knowledge from three continents. Ilijana Vavan, recipient of the Victress Cyber Award, presented the emerging threats born from the fusion of AI and cyberattacks; Eleanor “Nell” Watson, philosopher and president of the European Office for Responsible Artificial Intelligence, spoke about ethics, boundaries, and accountability; while Luka Manojlović, Microsoft MVP, demonstrated “Hook, Bait, and Hacker” — a hands-on look at how the world of cybersecurity is learned through experience, not theory.

After a rich day of sessions, participants enjoyed the evening party featuring the Dino Dvornik Tribute Band, whose vibrant energy and infectious rhythm won over the entire audience. A special surprise of the night came when Gibonni joined them on stage to perform a few of his iconic hits.

But this is just the beginning. Over the next two days, participants will have the opportunity to attend more than 80 sessions across six stages, featuring over 100 local and international speakers with extensive practical and teaching experience, presenting the latest trends and innovations.

The NetWork 13 program once again promises a dynamic continuation of dialogue about technology, innovation, and the changes shaping modern business and society.