Public Event | Vienna Citizen Lab 2025

Free Speech or Free-for-All? Tackling Hate, Misinformation and Polarisation in the Age of AI and Tech-Oligarchs

Tuesday, 13 May 2025 | 4.30 PM (Doors open at 4 PM)
Location: Co-Innovation Factory | Absberggasse 27 / Stiege 1 / 3rd Floor | 1100 Vienna

In today’s digital world, social media platforms don’t just host conversations – they shape them. Algorithmic ranking, AI-driven content, and reduced moderation and fact-checking amplify hate speech, antisemitism, anti-Muslim racism, racism and misinformation, threatening democratic values and inclusivity. The event will feature two thought-provoking panel discussions moderated by Dr. Jonas Fegert with distinguished experts, exploring the impact of digital platforms on democracy and society. In the first panel, Dr. Sebastian Heidebrecht, Prof. Dr. Achim Rettinger, Benjamin Fischer, Natascha Strobl and Judith Peterka will examine the challenges and opportunities of platform regulation and digital governance in shaping a democratic digital space.
The second panel will bring together Rosa Jellinek, Dr. Stefania Manca, Selin Aydin, and Alina Bricman for an in-depth discussion on hate speech and misinformation in online social networks.

Following the event, we warmly invite you to join us for a reception where we can continue the conversation.
We look forward to your presence.