Sestanki

Sestanki are formal or informal gatherings of two or more people convened to discuss issues, share information, or make decisions. In Slovenian usage, the word sestanek is common for a meeting, and sestanki is its plural. They occur in workplaces, government, non-governmental organizations, and civil society, and can be conducted in person, by telephone, or via video conferencing.

Different types of sestanki include internal meetings such as staff meetings, project review meetings, and executive or board meetings; external or public meetings like stakeholder consultations, committee hearings, and general assemblies; and special meetings held to address urgent matters or negotiations. The purpose and form of a sestanek are usually guided by an agenda, a chair or facilitator, and predefined roles for participants.

A typical sestanek features an agenda, discussion of items, and decisions or actions. Minutes, or zapisnik, document the topics discussed, decisions made, and assigned follow-up tasks with deadlines. Many organizations require a quorum to validate decisions, and outcomes are often determined by majority vote or through consensus.

Technology and practice have broadened how sestanki are conducted. Remote meetings using video conferencing and online collaboration tools are common, especially for distributed teams. Good practice emphasizes clear objectives, time management, defined decisions, and explicit responsibilities for follow-up.

The effectiveness of a sestanek depends on preparation, structured leadership, and disciplined participation. Regularly scheduled meetings support governance, planning, and coordination, while irregular or emergency meetings address urgent issues and rapid decision-making.