The Power of Horizontal Connections: What Will Prevail – Squares or Towers?

Is the modern world shifting from rigid hierarchical structures toward horizontal collaboration and network-based communities? What role do trust, self-organization, dialogue, and collective action play in bringing people together around shared values and goals?

During the panel discussion "The Power of Horizontal Connections: What Will Prevail – Squares or Towers?", participants will explore the significance of horizontal relationships in contemporary society, the role of communities during times of change and crisis, and the new leadership models emerging in rapidly transforming environments. Special attention will be given to how a culture of cooperation and interaction influences social resilience, strengthens the ability to overcome challenges, and creates conditions for sustainable development.

The panel will provide a space to discuss why an increasing number of social processes are driven not only by formal structures but also by the strength of communities, partnerships, and horizontal collaboration.

Event Information

Date: June 10, 2026

Time: 16:00–17:30 EEST (Kyiv, GMT+3)

Moderator

Olha Holovko (Ukraine) - mediator, trainer, PhD in Law, Associate Professor at Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, and PR Manager of the Ukrainian Academy of Mediation.

Speaker

Nataliia Kryvda (Ukraine) - Doctor of Philosophy, Professor at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Chair of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation, Academic Director of Edinburgh Business School in Ukraine, and author of more than 120 academic and methodological publications.

Who Will Benefit from the Event?

The panel will be valuable for representatives of civil society organizations, mediators, educators, youth leaders, researchers, communication professionals, and everyone working with communities, civil society development, and social change.

The event is organized by the Ukrainian Academy of Mediation in partnership with the European Commission for the Efficiency of Justice (CEPEJ) and with the financial support of the European Union within the framework of the EU Project "CONSENT".