Digital spaces shape how people understand the world, take part in public debate and relate to one another. As these spaces become more central to everyday life, they are also becoming more contested, influenced by commercial interests, geopolitical tensions and the spread of disinformation. The question is no longer whether digital space matters for democracy, but how it is shaped and by whom.
From 4 to 6 June in Amsterdam, PublicSpaces and Waag Futurelab bring together technologists, policymakers, cultural actors and practitioners to explore how digital public space can be grounded in democratic values. Through keynotes, discussions and workshops, the programme focuses on digital autonomy, public AI and the future of social platforms. The Open Social Awards highlight emerging alternatives to centralised social media, while the Bazaar connects organisations building practical tools for a more open and accountable digital environment.
Digital spaces are now part of where people form opinions, encounter difference, and decide whether to trust what they see and hear. This is where participation happens, and where it can also break down. Strengthening these environments as public, value-driven spaces is at the core of the European Cultural Foundation’s work on European Digital Citizenship, supporting platforms, practices and collaborations that enable people to engage safely, critically and meaningfully in shared public life.
Read more and apply: https://conference.publicspaces.net/en
Photo: PublicSpaces website
