Calls for Action:
Technology developers and innovators should develop decentralized technologies. They should collaborate with governments, research institutions, and non-profit organizations to advance the development of decentralized platforms and protocols.
Governments could incentivize the adoption of decentralized technologies through policy measures, funding research and development, and supporting initiatives that promote decentralization.
Civil society organizations and advocacy groups could raise awareness about the benefits of decentralized technologies and advocate for their adoption.
Governments and regulatory bodies should eliminate information paywalls by implementing policies that promote open access to knowledge and information. (See Appendix II)
Educational institutions and platforms could collaborate to democratize online education by offering free or affordable access to educational resources and courses.
Civil society organizations and advocacy groups could advocate for policies and initiatives that promote information accessibility and online education for all.
Governments should implement regulatory frameworks that promote transparency and accountability in the operations of big tech companies, including requirements for transparent algorithmic decision-making processes.
Regulatory bodies could monitor and enforce compliance with regulations, investigate cases of misinformation and bias, and impose sanctions on companies that violate regulatory standards.
Independent journalism organizations could continue to uphold journalistic integrity and transparency standards, providing reliable information and holding powerful entities accountable.
Main Outcomes:
Decentralized Technologies: Adoption and development of decentralized technologies lead to a more diverse digital landscape, reducing the dominance of big tech monopolies and giving users greater control over their data and interactions.
Information Accessibility: Elimination of information paywalls enables widespread access to knowledge, democratizing online education and fostering digital literacy and skill development globally.
Independent Journalism: Strengthened independent journalism and transparency in algorithmic decision-making promote a more informed citizenry and the implementation of regulatory frameworks that prioritize accountability and public benefit.
Support for Activists and Artists: Amplification of diverse voices empowers activists, artists, and storytellers to challenge oppressive narratives and advocate for social justice, creating a more inclusive and just digital environment.
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.