programme.
As we step into 2025, the political landscape is being reshaped by unprecedented technological advancements. In this opening keynote of the first European Political Tech Summit, Josef Lentsch will navigate you through the current state of political technology and its transformative impact on campaigns, governance, and voter engagement across Europe.
The keynote will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest trends, from AI-driven analytics and digital voter outreach to cybersecurity and the integration of blockchain in elections. Attendees will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, as well as the strategic shifts required to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field. This session will set the stage for the summit, offering a visionary perspective on how political tech is revolutionising and potentially revitalising democracy in Europe and beyond.
In 2024, nearly half of the world's population participated in the electoral process in over 70 countries, making it the ultimate election year in modern history. Political tech was a key factor in determining the results and strategies employed in many of these elections, not just in the West, but all around the globe. This panel brings together leading experts and campaign strategists to analyse the most impactful technological innovations and lessons learned from this unprecedented global experience. The panel will examine how campaigns utilised the latest technologies and developed new strategies, including AI-driven tools, advances in data analytics, and social media strategies in a changing digital landscape, and how that influenced voter behaviour and campaign effectiveness. It will also address new and here-to-stay challenges such as combating misinformation and gender-based violence, ensuring cybersecurity, and offering insights into what worked and what didn't. This panel is essential for anyone seeking to understand the evolving dynamics of political tech and the resulting impact on democratic politics.
What does the future hold, as democracies are set to undergo significant transformations in the digital age? This final session starts with a thought provoking impulse by Isabelle Sonnenfeld. Thereafter, we bring together leading innovators and strategists to explore the emerging trends and future directions of political tech and democratic politics. From the rise of AI and machine learning to advancements in data analytics, digital campaigning, and voter engagement, the discussion will cover the technologies poised to reshape the political arena. We will discuss visions for how these developments will influence election strategies, governance, and public participation and ask the question: is it all doom-and-gloom or do we need more of the audacity of hope?
As our democratic societies delve deeper into the digital age, the intersection of technology and politics presents both unprecedented opportunities and profound challenges. This keynote will explore the ethical and social implications of political tech, offering a critical examination of how these tools are reshaping our democratic processes. From issues of privacy and data security to the potential for misinformation and voter manipulation, the session will address the pressing questions that arise as political tech becomes more pervasive. Which responsibilities come with deploying these new technologies? How do we find the right balance required to ensure they serve to enhance, rather than erode, public trust in democracy? How does technology change our perception of truth and our ontological view to view the world?
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, misinformation poses a significant threat to democracy. This panel gathers top experts to explore how political technology is being deployed to combat false narratives. From AI-driven fact-checking to real-time data analytics, our experts will discuss the latest tools and strategies for detecting and countering misinformation. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the challenges and ethical considerations of using tech to protect the integrity of candidates, oragnisations and, ultimately, democratic elections.
As political technology advances, calls for effective regulation are becoming louder. This session will examine the challenges of creating a regulatory framework that balances innovation with accountability. Key topics include data privacy, transparency, and preventing digital manipulation. Attendees will gain insights into current legislative efforts and best practices for ensuring political tech serves the public good. Essential for those navigating the intersection of tech and politics, this session offers a clear view of the evolving regulatory landscape.
What skills should political organisations prioritise when recruiting, and how can they develop existing staff? How can they foster a culture where staff are encouraged to explore, experiment and innovate with these tools? What can be outsourced and what skills should be kept in-house? By prioritising these questions, this discussion will show how organisations can build teams that are ready to maximise the potential of AI in today's political landscape.
This session will explore the use and adaptation of political technology within repressive regimes, highlighting both challenges and innovative solutions. Focusing on resilience, the discussion will examine how activists, dissidents, and civil society groups stress-test political tech tools under extreme conditions, where traditional communication and organisational methods are compromised. We will delve into low-tech applications that remain effective in restricted environments, secure communication strategies to evade surveillance, and the cybersecurity essentials needed to protect critical operations. By learning from these extreme cases, participants will gain insights into the adaptability of political tech as a force for change and resilience in hostile contexts.
From AI-mageddon to Zoomer (Gen Z) politics, the role of political technology in shaping US elections has never been more prominent than in the 2024 election. This panel brings together leading political operatives to discuss their observations from the US election and how cutting-edge tech tools have impacted the campaigns and shaped the playing field in fields such as fundraising, digital campaigning, Canvassing, and Campaign organisation. Our experts from both sides of the aisle will provide insights into the successes and challenges of deploying the latest technologies in recent elections.
As the supply and demand for innovative technological solutions in politics is rapidly growing, the Political Tech Sector becomes interesting for investors looking for new investment opportunities. This panel brings together top investors and industry experts to explore the opportunities and challenges in this growing, yet unique sector. Discussions will focus on areas of high growth, such as AI-driven analytics, digital advertising, and cybersecurity solutions. Our experts will provide insights into what makes Political Tech ventures attractive (or not), potential returns and partnership strategies, and the risks involved. This session is essential for investors, start-up founders, and political strategists looking to capitalise on the expanding opportunities in this dynamic field.
What does the future hold, as democracies are set to undergo significant transformations in the digital age? This closing panel brings together leading innovators and strategists to explore the emerging trends and future directions of political tech and democratic politics. From the rise of AI and machine learning to advancements in data analytics, digital campaigning, and voter engagement, the discussion will cover the technologies poised to reshape the political arena. We will discuss visions for how these developments will influence election strategies, governance, and public participation and ask the question: is it all doom-and-gloom or do we need more of the audacity of hope?
What does the future hold, as democracies are set to undergo significant transformations in the digital age? This final session starts with a thought provoking impulse by Isabelle Sonnenfeld. Thereafter, we bring together leading innovators and strategists to explore the emerging trends and future directions of political tech and democratic politics. From the rise of AI and machine learning to advancements in data analytics, digital campaigning, and voter engagement, the discussion will cover the technologies poised to reshape the political arena. We will discuss visions for how these developments will influence election strategies, governance, and public participation and ask the question: is it all doom-and-gloom or do we need more of the audacity of hope?
In today’s hyperconnected world, where politics and technology increasingly shape market landscapes, companies can no longer afford to overlook the power of political advocacy. Brussels insider and veteran political campaigner. Jerry Zagoritis will make the case for why every major business should consider appointing a Chief Political (Tech) Officer to navigate political complexities, shape public policy, and leverage technology for strategic advantage. Following this, a panel of experts will provide additional perspectives, exploring how this emerging role is critical to safeguarding your brand, influencing legislation, and driving growth in an ever-evolving political and technological environment. Discover the intersection of politics and business—and why it's the next frontier for corporate success.
As trust in social media declines and social media landscapes becomes more fractured, newsletters are emerging as a powerful tool for direct and meaningful communication. This session explores how political parties can leverage the resurgence of newsletters to engage supporters, disseminate information, and build loyal communities. Drawing insights from journalism, participants will learn about the key elements of successful newsletters, including content strategy, audience segmentation, and the art of storytelling. The session will also discuss how newsletters can complement other digital strategies, offering a reliable and personal alternative in the age of social media skepticism. Ideal for communication professionals and campaign managers, this session provides actionable strategies for harnessing the enduring power of newsletters.
A good Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is essential not only for successful political campaigns but also for the day-to-day operations of political parties. This session will delve into the vital role a good CRM plays in managing voter relationships, streamlining communications, and optimizing both campaign and organizational activities. Participants will explore how a well-implemented CRM can enhance voter engagement, personalize outreach, and support data-driven decision-making. Additionally, the session will highlight how CRM systems can improve internal party operations, from member management to event coordination. Ideal for campaign managers, party administrators, and political strategists, this session provides practical insights into making CRM an integral part of your party’s success, both during elections and in everyday governance.
Political parties face a critical decision when it comes to implementing technology: whether to build custom solutions in-house or purchase existing tools. This panel will guide participants through the key factors to consider when making this choice, including cost, scalability, customization, and time-to-market. Participants will learn about the benefits and challenges of both approaches, with insights into how to assess their party’s specific needs and resources. The session will also provide case studies of political parties that have successfully navigated this decision, offering practical advice on how to ensure that the chosen tech solutions align with strategic goals. Ideal for IT managers, campaign leaders, and political strategists, this session helps you make informed decisions that will enhance your party’s technological capabilities.
This session provides an in-depth look into the workings of a modern political campaign, covering all aspects—from planning to execution—based on a successful campaign in Bulgaria. Participants will gain insights into the preparation, strategies, and tech setup that drive successful campaigns, making it ideal for those looking to understand the essentials of running an effective political campaign. This session will be hosted by NationBuilder in cooperation with its partners who were involved in the campaign case.
In today's unpredictable political landscape, transformation is essential for success. We bring together a panel of experienced political party intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs to explore both strategies to transform and professionalise political parties. Learn how innovative strategies can reshape party structures, enhance technological adoption, and foster growth from within. Whether you're building a new movement or transforming an established party, this session offers actionable insights from leaders on the frontlines of political innovation. The session will be based on a case study, followed by a discussion.
In a world dominated by news about cutting-edge digital tools, could traditional campaign methods still hold the key to success? This session delves into the surprising role of "old tech" in the Labour Party's campaign during the UK General Election. We'll explore how tried-and-true tactics were effectively combined with modern approaches to engage voters and drive results. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at how blending old and new technologies created a winning formula in a high-stakes political environment. Discover insights from one of the most successful campaigns in 2024.
This session provides a comprehensive analysis of how political parties across Europe are leveraging social media platforms in the context of the European Elections. Participants will explore case studies highlighting successful digital campaigns, learn about the diverse strategies employed by different parties, and gain insights into the role social media plays in different countries. The discussion will also cover the challenges and opportunities of using social media in a politically diverse and culturally varied continent. This session is ideal for political strategists, campaign managers, and communication professionals looking to enhance their social media strategies in future elections.
International pollster and messaging strategist Brent Buchanan, founder and president of cygnal, explores trends and strategies for reaching and engaging voters across generations, comparing the (digital) preferences and behaviours of Gen Z, Millennials and Boomers. Participants will gain insight into the unique political dynamics of each generation and learn how to effectively communicate and mobilise these key voting blocs. A discussion will follow to provide additional perspectives based on recent Trends in Europe.
In the platform era, memes have become a powerful tool for shaping public opinion and influencing political discourse. This session Marcus Bösch, researcher and strategist specializing in the intersection of media, tech, and politics, delves into the strategic use of memes in political communication, exploring how humor, irony, and cultural references can be weaponized to engage audiences and spread political messages effectively. Participants will learn about the anatomy of viral memes, how to create content that resonates with target demographics, and the ethical considerations of using memes in political campaigns. Ideal for political strategists, communication professionals, and social media managers, this session offers a deep dive into the art of meme warfare in modern politics.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing content creation, offering political organisations new ways to produce compelling and targeted messages at scale. This session hosted by Chorus AI explores how AI can be harnessed to enhance your operations with AI. Participants will learn about the latest AI tools and techniques that can streamline the content creation process, improve efficiency, and ensure that your campaign's messaging resonates with diverse audiences. The session will also discuss the ethical considerations of using AI in content creation, ensuring that authenticity and integrity are maintained. Ideal for communication teams, digital strategists, and campaign managers, this session will empower you to integrate AI into your content creation process and maximize your impact.
This session explores how regionalized tech-assissted micro-campaigns can deepen community connections by addressing hyper-local issues and “Not in My Backyard” concerns. Alexander Lagger, a seasoned campaign professional, will discuss how micro-influencers amplify these local narratives, helping to build a loyal supporter base. With a focus on best practices, this hands-on-session, based on a successful case study, will dive into strategies that target what matters most to individuals, strengthening bonds, growing membership, and driving election success. Join us to discover how localized strategies can make your campaigns more relevant, impactful, and community-focused.
As election cycles intensify, so do efforts to shape narratives on key platforms like Wikipedia. This session explores how political organizations can strategically engage with Wikipedia—whether to defend their image, correct misinformation, or utilize the platform effectively. Through practical case studies, we’ll dive into the challenges of maintaining impartiality during campaigns and discuss how Wikipedia’s editing community responds to the surge in activity during politically charged times. Participants will gain insights into the dynamics of Wikipedia's editing processes during election seasons and learn best practices for combating misinformation while ensuring accurate representation.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing content creation, offering political campaigns new ways to produce compelling and targeted messages at scale. This session explores how AI can be harnessed to enhance your content strategy, from automating social media posts and generating personalized messages to crafting impactful visuals and videos. Participants will learn about the latest AI tools and techniques that can streamline the content creation process, improve efficiency, and ensure that your campaign's messaging resonates with diverse audiences. The session will also discuss the ethical considerations of using AI in content creation, ensuring that authenticity and integrity are maintained. Ideal for communication teams, digital strategists, and campaign managers, this session will empower you to integrate AI into your content creation process and maximize your campaign's impact.
Legacy technology can often feel like a burden, slowing down progress and complicating the implementation of modern solutions. This session addresses the challenges of managing outdated tech infrastructure within political organizations and offers strategies for upgrading and integrating new technologies without disrupting ongoing operations. Participants will explore best practices for assessing the viability of legacy systems, planning phased upgrades, and ensuring compatibility with cutting-edge tools. The session will also cover how to balance the need for innovation with the realities of existing technology investments. Ideal for IT managers, campaign strategists, and organizational leaders, this session provides actionable insights into transforming legacy tech from a hindrance into a foundation for future growth.
This session explores the role of knowledge management and training within political parties, focusing on strategies for capturing, sharing, and leveraging institutional knowledge. Participants will learn about continuous training programs and digital tools to enhance organizational effectiveness, improve decision-making, and ensure consistent campaign messaging.
This session focuses on strategies for leveraging technology effectively in political campaigns with limited funds. Participants will learn practical tips for selecting cost-effective tools, optimizing campaign operations, and prioritizing tech investments to deliver the highest returns, crucial for campaign managers and strategists facing budget constraints.
This Masterclass addresses the growing threat of DeepFakes, CheapFakes and Synthetic Media in the digital landscape, with a focus on their impact on political actors. Participants will learn about the latest cybersecurity challenges and strategies to detect and counter these threats, ensuring the integrity of political organisations and actors in an era of increasing cyber threats.
Digital advertising has become a key tool for campaigns looking to engage voters and shape election outcomes. By using data-driven targeting and tailored messaging, campaigns can reach specific voter groups more effectively. In this Masterclass, Dr. Simon Kruschinski, post-doctoral researcher and independent consultant, will guide participants through the strategies and tools that make digital political ads so powerful, as well as the ethical considerations they raise. You'll gain valuable insights into how these techniques can be leveraged to influence voters’ attitudes and behavior while keeping in mind the potential impact on democratic processes.
This session examines the core principles of digital branding as a tool for crafting resonant narratives. Participants will explore branding as a promise, the role of perception in earning trust, and strategies for building strong connections in both commercial and personal branding contexts, crucial for navigating chaotic digital and political landscapes.
In the high-pressure environment of modern fast-paced politics, maintaining mental wellbeing is crucial for effective leadership. This workshop introduces three evidence-based training programs specifically designed for political professionals to enhance mental health, creativity, and strategic thinking, vital for thriving in a demanding political landscape.
This session provides an in-depth look into the workings of political campaigns, covering budgeting, infrastructure, candidate training, messaging, and fundraising. Participants will gain insights into the strategies that drive successful campaigns, ideal for those looking to understand the essentials of running an effective political campaign.
