Jakub Szymik represented CEE Digital Democracy Watch at the Copenhagen Democracy Summit, which took place from May 14-15, 2024.
During the event, we witnessed Ursula von der Leyen’s speech announcing the European Democratic Shield as a top tech item on the 2024 Commission’s agenda if she is reelected. Being part of the Democratic Shield coalition that initiated this idea, it was great to have the opportunity to discuss this with Madam Commissioner and share our report in person.
Jakub Szymik also represented us at a luncheon on “The Future of Election Integrity.” The aim of the meeting was to provide a timely platform for an in-depth exchange between senior experts from government, the tech industry, and civil society.
The participants briefly reviewed the achievements of the past eight years and then focused on what still needs to be done to protect democratic elections more effectively worldwide. Instead of lengthy presentations, selected speakers presented their most innovative strategies for restoring trust and strengthening the fabric of our democratic institutions and processes.
The entire second day of the conference was dedicated to the themes of “Tech and Democracy.” The speakers included Věra Jourová, Audrey Tang, Annette Kroeber-Riel, Ginny Badanes, and Sanna Marin.