kaasistada

kaasistada is a Finnish verb that translates to "to co-chair" or "to sit together as chair". It describes the act of sharing the role of chairperson or moderator in a meeting, discussion, or event. When two or more individuals kaasistada, they jointly lead the proceedings, often dividing responsibilities such as introducing speakers, managing time, and facilitating dialogue.

This practice can be employed in various settings. In academic conferences, for instance, sessions might be co-chaired by experts from different institutions to bring diverse perspectives and share the workload. In parliamentary bodies or committees, kaasistada can ensure a balanced representation of different factions or viewpoints during a discussion. It can also be used in less formal group settings where shared leadership is desired.

The benefits of kaasistada can include a more dynamic and comprehensive facilitation, as co-chairs can offer different approaches or cover more ground. It can also promote collaboration and a sense of shared ownership over the event. However, effective kaasistada requires clear communication and agreement between the co-chairs regarding their respective roles and responsibilities to avoid confusion or conflict. The term emphasizes the collaborative nature of leadership in such instances.