Conference Agenda

Investing in the Internet as Public Space

Abstract: In three decades, the Internet has changed from a mostly public space to an exploitative and extractive private space owned by tech companies and big finance. The tides are only recently turning, with European legislation and investment in digital public spaces. But are we too late? A handful of companies are appropriating all (digital) content human mankind ever created into huge databases that feed generative AI. Why do we let this happen? Can we build a strong movement to stop big tech and big finance from taking control of the world’s cultural heritage and production? How can we bring public values back into the digital domain?

Bio: Marleen Stikker is founder and executive director of Waag Futurelab in Amsterdam. Waag Futurelab reinforces critical reflection on technology, develops technological and social design skills, and encourages social innovation. Marleen leads the trans-disciplinary team of designers, artists and scientists, utilising Public Research and Key Enabling Methodologies to empower people to participate in the collective design of open, fair and inclusive futures. Marleen founded 'De Digitale Stad' (The Digital City) in 1993, the first virtual community introducing free public access to the Internet in Amsterdam. Marleen Stikker strongly adheres to the Maker's Bill of Rights motto: 'If You Can't Open It, You Don't Own It'.