The World Forum on the Future of Democracy, Tech and Humankind, 18th-19th February 2024, Berlin

Call for action: The World Forum’s panel on big tech urged governments and stakeholders to create regulatory frameworks that enforce transparency, accountability, and public benefit in the operation of big tech companies. Also, governments and policymakers should encourage the development and use of open-source and decentralized technologies that empower users and provide alternatives to the centralized control of big tech.

Main outcomes

• Challenge to Digital Feudalism: The panel recognized the urgent need to address digital feudalism, advocating for a system that promotes inclusivity, education, and access to information to empower all segments of society.

• Regulation and Transparency: There was a consensus on the necessity of regulating big tech to ensure transparency, protect the news industry, and support a digital public sphere that benefits the broader society over corporate profits.

• Support for Decentralization and Openness: Emphasizing the importance of decentralized technologies and open-source projects, the panelists called for support of initiatives that offer alternatives to big tech's monopolistic practices, enhancing digital inclusion and participation.

Panel Discussion summary

Claudia Bechstein moderated the panel discussion focused on how big tech is navigating issues around accountability, regulation, and its relationship with democracy. Panelists, including David Arditi, Isabela Fernandes, Marc Rotenberg, Karim Amer, and Nicholas Bruckman, shared diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities presented by technology in democratic societies. David Arditi introduced the concept of "digital feudalism," underscoring the need for a digital public sphere fostered through regulation, the elimination of information paywalls, and democratized online education. He emphasized the importance of an educated populace and inclusive public discourse for a healthy democracy.

Isabela Fernandes highlighted the potential of free software and decentralized technologies like the Tor Project to combat big tech monopolies and foster digital inclusion and education. She shared insights from her experiences in Silicon Valley and the Brazilian government, advocating for a collaborative, open technology model that empowers society. Marc Rotenberg discussed the detrimental impact of big tech on the news industry, noting the capture of advertising revenue and readership from traditional news organizations. He called for a deep commitment to independent journalism and transparency in algorithmic decision-making as essential for accountability.

Karim Amer stressed the importance of challenging the centralized power of big tech and advocated for decentralized networks and collective action. He discussed the role of whistleblowers and the need for systemic changes to redefine success beyond financial gain, emphasizing technology's potential when governed appropriately. Nicholas Bruckman shared his work on documentaries exploring optimistic uses of technology, like blockchain, for resisting censorship and promoting democracy. He emphasized the need for supporting activists, artists, and storytellers who use technology to build public discourse and counteract oppressive uses of digital tools.