TCU Wiki - User contributions [en]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-05-05T10:34:45Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big> <big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''But June 30 is our hard deadline.'''</span></big><br><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''We will not be accepting applications after that date.'''</span></big>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center><div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''<big>🌱 Open call for Programming</big>'''

The link to the form to submit your programming proposals will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants. Please contact us if you did not receive the form. However, the form is also accessible from the ticket application platform after you login. (see link below)
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''Questions about the event or any process?''' Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions.

</div>
</div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.
<br>
<br>

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> updates about the launch of ETIAS Travel Authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants.<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-05-05T10:33:07Z

Erin: /* Programming */

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big> <big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''But June 30 is our hard deadline.'''</span></big><br><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''We will not be accepting applications after that date.'''</span></big>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center><div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''<big>🌱 Open call for Programming</big>'''

The link to the form to submit your programming proposals will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants. Please contact us if you did not receive the form. However, the form is also accessible from the ticket application platform after you login. (see link below)
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''Questions about the event or any process?''' Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions.

</div>
</div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.
<br>
<br>

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-05-05T10:32:24Z

Erin: /* Programming */

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big> <big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''But June 30 is our hard deadline.'''</span></big><br><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''We will not be accepting applications after that date.'''</span></big>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center><div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''<big>🌱 Open call for Programming</big>'''

The link to the form to submit your programming proposals will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants. Please contact us if you did not receive the form. However, the form is also accessible from the ticket application platform after you login. (see link below)
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''Questions about the event or any process?''' Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions.

</div>
</div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-05-05T10:32:12Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big> <big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''But June 30 is our hard deadline.'''</span></big><br><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''We will not be accepting applications after that date.'''</span></big>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center><div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''<big>🌱 Open call for Programming</big>'''

The link to the form to submit your programming proposals will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants. Please contact us if you did not receive the form. However, the form is also accessible from the ticket application platform after you login. (see link below)
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''Questions about the event or any process?''' Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions.

</div>
</div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.

.

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-05-05T10:31:32Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big> <big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''But June 30 is our hard deadline.'''</span></big><br><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''We will not be accepting applications after that date.'''</span></big>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center><div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''<big>🌱 Open call for Programming</big>'''

The link to the form to submit your programming proposals will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants. Please contact us if you did not receive the form. However, the form is also accessible from the ticket application platform after you login. (see link below)
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.

<big>'''📌'''</big> '''Questions about the event or any process?''' Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions.

</div>
</div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.

.

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-04-27T13:20:17Z

Erin: /* What We Are Looking for... */

__NOTOC__

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>

==== '''<big>Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!!</big>''' ====
Only individuals who have applied and been approved to join the GG can submit proposals. If you have not applied for the GG, you can do so here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

Approved applicants will be able to submit proposals on the dashboard of the GG ticketing platform.

== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==
The Global Gathering’s programming is unique, using specific formats and focusing on certain themes every year. We highly encourage you to read the page below, which will help you submit a stronger proposal. '''New to 2026:''' We will be featuring a limited number of skill-share workshops!

At the GG we look for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps:

* Advance shared goals
* Improve skills
* Create collective knowledge
* Support the mapping out and mobilization of networks around current and emerging challenges
* Projects and individuals share their work with others.

== '''2026 Themes''' ==
<big>In addition to the themes listed below, this year we will be creating special topical hubs via multi-day programming, or “Villages”, focused on organizational security, spyware, circumvention technology, and secure communications and documentation, as well as LGBTQAI+ and regional hubs.</big>

=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities
* Organizational security in low-resource environments
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists
* Challenges and updates in security education and training
* Whistleblowing protection
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field

=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===
* Current research and frontline insights
* Threat and/or trend discovery
* New and emerging spyware developments
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship
* Challenges and updates in security education and training

=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies

=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes

=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation
== '''Programming Formats''' ==

=== Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting ===
Booths are hosted in the permanent kiosks found in the GG’s unique venue, reminiscent of a renaissance fair. They serve as the cornerstone of the event, offering flexible spaces for participants to share, create and connect, while dynamically engaging directly with participants to forge trust-based relationships and discover powerful collaborations.

Booth shifts last two hours. We highly recommend you decorate your booth in a fun and creative way and bring your computer or devices if you want to showcase virtual materials. Electrical outlets are available in each booth. More information about booth sizing and amenities is available [[Global Gathering Booths|'''here''']]. You can see a sample of booth pictures [[Global Gathering#pics|here:]]

'''There are many ways you can use Booths, including:'''
* '''Showcase your project or organization''' and connect with attendees through conversation, materials, and Q&A.
* '''Run a tool demo''', allowing participants to try out your project firsthand.
* '''Host a game or activity''', especially one with an educational or awareness-raising goal.
* '''Host a community space inside your booth,''' creating a hub for individuals from a particular network to collaborate, share, and network.
* '''Offer a service,''' such as digital security support or UX consultations.
* '''Curate an exhibit''' that creatively showcases your work at the intersection of digital and human rights.
* '''Share research or published work''' with participants and answer their questions.
* '''Host a mini-workshop''' that allows attendees to engage with your team and learn something new.

=== Circles: Collaborative Discussions Rooted in Action ===
Circles are 45-minute collaborative discussions facilitated by you. Rooted in action, they can take the form of strategic discussions, action-planning around common challenges, or knowledge exchange around a specific area. They should reflect collective interest, not just individual ideas.

We prioritize Circles that address urgent needs, reflect GG themes, will be of interest to the largest percentage of participants, and have multiple collaborators and/or stakeholders involved.

'''Note:''' Circles are not the right space for one-way presentations or demos; they should be collaborative discussions that engage participants. If you would like to demo or showcase a project, organization, or research, consider hosting a booth.

'''Pro-Tip:''' Prior to the event, we will provide a virtual community space on our Mattermost for networking. This is a great place to find co-faciliators for your proposal OR invite folks to your Circle, if it is accepted.

=== Skill-Share Workshops: Strengthening Capacity ===
Skill-share Workshops improve capacity by leveling up participants’ skills or deepening their knowledge. Workshops can last from 45 minutes to 90 minutes and can be directed to novices or seasoned experts. Workshops should be focused on skill-building in a particular area and should not centered around one specific tool or project. This year we will be scheduling workshops both in the mornings, before the start of the event, and during the event itself.

'''Note:''' The Global Gathering venue is low-tech and workshops must be delivered without the use of projectors or screens, however large notepads will be provided.

=== Meetups: Building Trust ===
'''Meetups''' bring together folks who have a shared interest, demographic, or work area to network and build trust in a more relaxed environment. While Circles are about discussing issues, Meetups are about connecting humans and learning about each other.

We are currently only accepting proposals for meetups that are focused on specific digital rights themes or profiles that will attract a large number of participants OR off-site meetups that are more complex to plan and require TCU support. You will have ample opportunity while physically in Portugal to propose smaller, off-site meetups. Directions will be provided in the month prior to the event. We have very limited space for meetups in the venue, and may recommend a nearby location.

'''Examples:'''

* '''Work-Themed Meetups:''' Spyware Researchers, System Administrators Getting Off Big Tech, Security Specialists in Journalism
* '''Large-Scale Events or Activities Open to All Participants:''' 5K walk or run on boardwalk, picnic at a nearby beach, after-hours fundraiser at a nearby restaurant, game night at a local cafe, surfing get together, regional dinner.

April 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-14T10:19:37Z

Erin:

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-13T07:25:18Z

Erin:

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' March 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''First Steps Toward Adopting Alternative Infrastructure and Tools''</big>

<big>Come join us and share tips and experience on adopting alternative infrastructure and tools and divesting from extractive tech. Global Gathering programming proposals will also open on the 19th, so this is an opportunity to ask about programming themes, formats, and how to submit and proposal!</big>

</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==

====== '''Community News and Project Shout-Outs''' ======

* "[https://safeherclinic.org/ Safe Her Clinic] is a for women, by women digital security clinic supporting survivors of technology-facilitated gender-based violence."
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] offers "expert translation, editorial, and mentorship services from a global community, fuelling the Global Voices non-profit mission."
* ''Don't Delete Art'' is currently collaborating with ''Free The Nipple'' to highlight how female-presenting-nipple censorship affects art and artists. [https://www.dontdelete.art/free-the-nipple-x-dont-delete-art Check out the 2-month campaign].
* The Global Gathering is now accepting programming proposals! Approved applicants will be able to submit proposals by logging into the GG ticketing platform and selecting “Submit a Proposal” from the dashboard. You can also read more about this year’s programming themes and formats [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|on our wiki]].
* [https://www.instagram.com/saqfecollective/ SAQFE], a Moroccan intersectional Queer group, launched their documentary [https://www.youtube.com/@SAQFECOLLECTIVE TOUGHYAN] in March.
* "[https://dokie.li/ dokieli] is a clientside editor for decentralised article publishing, annotations, and social interactions.

====== '''When individuals and orgs want to approach self hosting or finding alternatives to the most common "Big Tech" services, what are some of the initial questions and considerations they should take into account?''' ======

* at APC we self-host most of the services we use and some of those we also offer to members. These are tools like '''Mattermost''', '''Nextcloud''', '''BigBlueButton''' and others. Since we are quite a large team, around 60 people in the org, '''we put a lot of emphasis in capacity building and tech support'''. '''In our experience we see that this is the most crucial aspect''', launching a VM and installing a service is just the start of the journey...
** '''Is there any chance APC may broaden their membership categories to provide this service?'''
*** Lately we are trying to welcome new members in a slower pace to make sure. But we can discuss other forms of partnering if you need access to some of the services we host.
* I have some experience from the security side with activist orgs and media mostly in Latam, and while in most cases having a healthy stack of self-hosted tools and/or services hosted in friendlier environments is super feasible. Often I end up being the annoying uncle reminding people of some trade-offs of both approaches.
** '''For self-hosted: there should be technical capacity and bandwidth to secure and keep the software updated.''' Already had a couple orgs that were compromised because of a super outdated nextcloud instance.
** '''For services in better jurisdictions: the biggest problems here are money and knowing the providers.''' People with good reputation in the community, knowing the tech involved, the limitations, and alternative approaches could go a long way when migrating to other services
* For self-hosting, these days I am more focussed on '''edge networks/devices'''. Since [in India] it is quite difficult to host your own router or even have a bridge-router. Since all the major ISP use : TR-069 protocol and for the past few years they have moved to custom firmware where you cannot disable them at all.
* Grateful to have worked closely with APC team to learn and adapt secure autonomous digital infrastructure. There has been a real shift in our organizing with '''US-based activists who are seeing a need for alternatives to big tech''' in new ways. '''Trying to frame our FLOSS tools in ways that they can adopt more readily/easily'''. Eager to learn more from this space also about how folks are engaging with AI as well.
* I think one of the recommendations I got when struggling with if and how to divest from Google services was to really come to terms with that fact that '''you will not find one-to-one alternatives to Google and Microsoft etc.''' You have to understand that '''you won't get everything in the alternative you chose''' and it's about recognizing what you can and cannot live without and understanding that '''you need to adjust your workflow'''. Aaand, '''you can move to alternatives bit by bit'''. Maybe you can't find an alternative to one services Google provides, but you can move to alternatives for many other tools.
** While I agree, I also think '''we give too much credit to these big giants'''. My colleagues who use Microsoft are complaining about it all the time, and tools like '''Nextcloud''' have gotten so good, they really don't feel much different.
** Big Tech has become so entrenched in our digital lives, they've become complacent and have stopped innovating. '''We have gotten used to sh*tty tools because we don't realise the extent of our alternatives.'''
* For organizations, and I speak from an "operational point of view more than a tech one," '''it is important to understand that transitioning asks for time, commitment, support and a flexible heart'''. Learning needs to be ensured, modeled by the one who leads formally or informally. '''It's kind of going for a marathon or a long guided tour that does not leave anyone behind.''' We rise and fall, and in this we should laugh, see that all this moving away has a purpose called more autonomy and freedom, less surveillance. '''Our alternative buildings, houses, one-room flat infrastructure will never compete and should not with the 5-star hotel and service system of big corporation.'''
** What torments me is how to build hubs for the ones who are in volunteer and grassroots organizing and face everyday so much that transitioning autonomously to a different infrastructure seems almost prohibitive... This is where we need to pull something together, with we being the ones who have or could have some resources to offer/share/maintain...
* '''Some important questions are:'''
** How big is the user base for those services?
** What are some must have features that need to be in the alternative?
** Where will it be hosted?
** Can we be able to maintain it in the long run?
* It is a big mindset shift...it is also important to recognize that '''you / the org will need to get the hands dirty, there is more work to do, more things to consider.''' Things that are all outsourced when you hire Google or Microsoft, when you take control back of your data you are also responsible for caring for a lot of other aspects. So '''it is not possible to compare apples to carrots.'''

====== '''For individuals and organizations who do not have the resources and technical expertise in-house to own and manage their own infrastructure, what options/approaches are there that still allow for more autonomy and security?''' ======

* ...What I find very interesting and fascinating is '''multiple groups coming together to share costs of services or sharing capacity and learning opportunity'''.
** I love this idea of organizations coming together to share the burden when one org cannot. I wonder if this is an approach that more organizations within our digital rights space could adopt collectively?
* Among the "hardware services," we also desperately need "Migration Support Services"... Once the decision to choose new options is made, this is THE biggest barrier.

====== '''There are a number of organizations and cooperatives (some that have already been brought up earlier in the convo) that provide services like hosting, email, conferencing, productivity tools, etc. as alternatives to Google, Microsoft, Amazon and other Big Tech and proprietary options. Are there services that you have used and recommend?''' ======

* Shout out to APC members '''[https://www.greennet.org.uk/ GreenNet]''' and '''[https://mayfirst.coop/en/ MayFirst]''' who both offer services like email hosting, web hosting, and more. Orgs with great ethics and commitments since the early days of the Internet.
* '''[https://sutty.coop.ar/en/services/preservation/ Sutty]''' is also offering a preservation service for old websites that are hard to maintain.
* We've had really wonderful experience with '''[https://cloud68.co/ Cloud68]''' for their managed hosting, maintenance, and tech support - also deeply aligned values and great communicators (esp. important to me as someone without a tech background)
** '''Cloud68''' is established in Estonia, with main servers in Germany, and encrypted backups in France. This is by design to not have all it's eggs in one basket. The team is spread in various cities in Europe.
* '''[https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost]''' for VPSs, sustainable webhosting and more.
* [https://maadix.net/en/ '''Maadix'''] "The online tools we use everyday, now preserving your digital autonomy, the privacy of your communications and the security of your data."
* [https://fullstackjournalism.eu/ '''Full Stack Journalism'''] is "a community of independent newsrooms helping each other make informed choices about the technologies we use. We want technology to foster independent journalism, drive new revenue models, and improve collaboration - without compromising on the values that help us build trust with our communities."
* [https://gfmd.info/cloud-alliance/ '''The Journalism Cloud Alliance'''] provides infrastructure services specially designed for media organizations. People are worried about jurisdiction now more than ever, and they need a vendor that will back them when they would be censored. Also prices, commercial cloud offerings have been increasing prices to the point that it's now choking some smaller orgs. The 60 direct alliance members (IIRC) are based around the world and some of are regional networks.
** '''At this stage the alliance is offering services with easy migration paths: VPS, storage, VPN, and we are also piloting workspace tools like nextcloud and big blue button''' only to teams already experienced in such tools. Ultimately the end the alliance would like to offer '''infrastructure, workspace and amplification tools''' (CMS, mass email, and other publication strategies). They have also received request for '''AI services, Devops and security service'''s, which will not be provided at least for a year, so they are building a consultant network for these services.
** If you are a media org or an ngo that is looking to switch infrastructure vendors, fill our the following form and it will be handled discreetly: https://eu.jotform.com/form/252582843235359.
** If you are an AI/DevOps/Security service provider or any other service that you think the alliance will need in the future while building out its offerings, please get in touch.
*** Ping @erinm on Mattermost for contact details for the Journalism Cloud Alliance team.

====== '''Are there any resources that you recommend for individuals who want to learn more about alt infrastructure and services? Either for novices or more seasoned folks?''' ======

* [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/communal-internet-infrastructure Communal Internet Infrastructure report] - APC
* [https://www.apc.org/en/blog/infrastructures-done-differently Infrastructures-done-differently] - APC
* [https://mayfirst.coop/files/politics-practices-autonomous-technology.pdf Politics and practices of an autonomous technology, voices of the members of MayFirst] - MayFirst
* [https://openalternative.co/self-hosted OpenAlternative]'s self-hosted list that provides alternatives for almost all categories.

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-10T15:31:16Z

Erin: /* When individuals and orgs want to approach self hosting or finding alternatives to the most common "Big Tech" services, what are some of the initial questions and considerations they should take into account? */

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' March 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''First Steps Toward Adopting Alternative Infrastructure and Tools''</big>

<big>Come join us and share tips and experience on adopting alternative infrastructure and tools and divesting from extractive tech. Global Gathering programming proposals will also open on the 19th, so this is an opportunity to ask about programming themes, formats, and how to submit and proposal!</big>

</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==

====== '''Community News and Project Shout-Outs''' ======

* "[https://safeherclinic.org/ Safe Her Clinic] is a for women, by women digital security clinic supporting survivors of technology-facilitated gender-based violence."
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] offers "expert translation, editorial, and mentorship services from a global community, fuelling the Global Voices non-profit mission."
* ''Don't Delete Art'' is currently collaborating with ''Free The Nipple'' to highlight how female-presenting-nipple censorship affects art and artists. [https://www.dontdelete.art/free-the-nipple-x-dont-delete-art Check out the 2-month campaign].
* The Global Gathering is now accepting programming proposals! Approved applicants will be able to submit proposals by logging into the GG ticketing platform and selecting “Submit a Proposal” from the dashboard. You can also read more about this year’s programming themes and formats [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|on our wiki]].
* [https://www.instagram.com/saqfecollective/ SAQFE], a Moroccan intersectional Queer group, launched their documentary [https://www.youtube.com/@SAQFECOLLECTIVE TOUGHYAN] in March.
* "[https://dokie.li/ dokieli] is a clientside editor for decentralised article publishing, annotations, and social interactions.

====== '''When individuals and orgs want to approach self hosting or finding alternatives to the most common "Big Tech" services, what are some of the initial questions and considerations they should take into account?''' ======

* at APC we self-host most of the services we use and some of those we also offer to members. These are tools like '''Mattermost''', '''Nextcloud''', '''BigBlueButton''' and others. Since we are quite a large team, around 60 people in the org, '''we put a lot of emphasis in capacity building and tech support'''. '''In our experience we see that this is the most crucial aspect''', launching a VM and installing a service is just the start of the journey...
** '''Is there any chance APC may broaden their membership categories to provide this service?'''
*** Lately we are trying to welcome new members in a slower pace to make sure. But we can discuss other forms of partnering if you need access to some of the services we host.
* I have some experience from the security side with activist orgs and media mostly in Latam, and while in most cases having a healthy stack of self-hosted tools and/or services hosted in friendlier environments is super feasible. Often I end up being the annoying uncle reminding people of some trade-offs of both approaches.
** '''For self-hosted: there should be technical capacity and bandwidth to secure and keep the software updated.''' Already had a couple orgs that were compromised because of a super outdated nextcloud instance.
** '''For services in better jurisdictions: the biggest problems here are money and knowing the providers.''' People with good reputation in the community, knowing the tech involved, the limitations, and alternative approaches could go a long way when migrating to other services
* For self-hosting, these days I am more focussed on '''edge networks/devices'''. Since [in India] it is quite difficult to host your own router or even have a bridge-router. Since all the major ISP use : TR-069 protocol and for the past few years they have moved to custom firmware where you cannot disable them at all.
* Grateful to have worked closely with APC team to learn and adapt secure autonomous digital infrastructure. There has been a real shift in our organizing with '''US-based activists who are seeing a need for alternatives to big tech''' in new ways. '''Trying to frame our FLOSS tools in ways that they can adopt more readily/easily'''. Eager to learn more from this space also about how folks are engaging with AI as well.
* I think one of the recommendations I got when struggling with if and how to divest from Google services was to really come to terms with that fact that '''you will not find one-to-one alternatives to Google and Microsoft etc.''' You have to understand that '''you won't get everything in the alternative you chose''' and it's about recognizing what you can and cannot live without and understanding that '''you need to adjust your workflow'''. Aaand, '''you can move to alternatives bit by bit'''. Maybe you can't find an alternative to one services Google provides, but you can move to alternatives for many other tools.
** While I agree, I also think '''we give too much credit to these big giants'''. My colleagues who use Microsoft are complaining about it all the time, and tools like '''Nextcloud''' have gotten so good, they really don't feel much different.
** Big Tech has become so entrenched in our digital lives, they've become complacent and have stopped innovating. '''We have gotten used to sh*tty tools because we don't realise the extent of our alternatives.'''
* For organizations, and I speak from an "operational point of view more than a tech one," '''it is important to understand that transitioning asks for time, commitment, support and a flexible heart'''. Learning needs to be ensured, modeled by the one who leads formally or informally. '''It's kind of going for a marathon or a long guided tour that does not leave anyone behind.''' We rise and fall, and in this we should laugh, see that all this moving away has a purpose called more autonomy and freedom, less surveillance. '''Our alternative buildings, houses, one-room flat infrastructure will never compete and should not with the 5-star hotel and service system of big corporation.'''
** What torments me is how to build hubs for the ones who are in volunteer and grassroots organizing and face everyday so much that transitioning autonomously to a different infrastructure seems almost prohibitive... This is where we need to pull something together, with we being the ones who have or could have some resources to offer/share/maintain...
* '''Some important questions are:'''
** How big is the user base for those services?
** What are some must have features that need to be in the alternative?
** Where will it be hosted?
** Can we be able to maintain it in the long run?
* It is a big mindset shift...it is also important to recognize that '''you / the org will need to get the hands dirty, there is more work to do, more things to consider.''' Things that are all outsourced when you hire Google or Microsoft, when you take control back of your data you are also responsible for caring for a lot of other aspects. So '''it is not possible to compare apples to carrots.'''

====== '''For individuals and organizations who do not have the resources and technical expertise in-house to own and manage their own infrastructure, what options/approaches are there that still allow for more autonomy and security?''' ======

* ...What I find very interesting and fascinating is '''multiple groups coming together to share costs of services or sharing capacity and learning opportunity'''.
** I love this idea of organizations coming together to share the burden when one org cannot. I wonder if this is an approach that more organizations within our digital rights space could adopt collectively?
* Among the "hardware services," we also desperately need "Migration Support Services"... Once the decision to choose new options is made, this is THE biggest barrier.

====== '''There are a number of organizations and cooperatives (some that have already been brought up earlier in the convo) that provide services like hosting, email, conferencing, productivity tools, etc. as alternatives to Google, Microsoft, Amazon and other Big Tech and proprietary options. Are there services that you have used and recommend?''' ======

* Shout out to APC members '''[https://www.greennet.org.uk/ GreenNet]''' and '''[https://mayfirst.coop/en/ MayFirst]''' who both offer services like email hosting, web hosting, and more. Orgs with great ethics and commitments since the early days of the Internet.
* '''[https://sutty.coop.ar/en/services/preservation/ Sutty]''' is also offering a preservation service for old websites that are hard to maintain.
* We've had really wonderful experience with '''[https://cloud68.co/ Cloud68]''' for their managed hosting, maintenance, and tech support - also deeply aligned values and great communicators (esp. important to me as someone without a tech background)
** '''Cloud68''' is established in Estonia, with main servers in Germany, and encrypted backups in France. This is by design to not have all it's eggs in one basket. The team is spread in various cities in Europe.
* '''[https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost]''' for VPSs, sustainable webhosting and more.
* [https://maadix.net/en/ '''Maadix'''] "The online tools we use everyday, now preserving your digital autonomy, the privacy of your communications and the security of your data."
* [https://fullstackjournalism.eu/ '''Full Stack Journalism'''] is "a community of independent newsrooms helping each other make informed choices about the technologies we use. We want technology to foster independent journalism, drive new revenue models, and improve collaboration - without compromising on the values that help us build trust with our communities."
* [https://gfmd.info/cloud-alliance/ '''The Journalism Cloud Alliance'''] provides infrastructure services specially designed for media organizations. People are worried about jurisdiction now more than ever, and they need a vendor that will back them when they would be censored. Also prices, commercial cloud offerings have been increasing prices to the point that it's now choking some smaller orgs. The 60 direct alliance members (IIRC) are based around the world and some of are regional networks.
** '''At this stage the alliance is offering services with easy migration paths: VPS, storage, VPN, and we are also piloting workspace tools like nextcloud and big blue button''' only to teams already experienced in such tools. Ultimately the end the alliance would like to offer '''infrastructure, workspace and amplification tools''' (CMS, mass email, and other publication strategies). They have also received request for '''AI services, Devops and security service'''s, which will not be provided at least for a year, so they are building a consultant network for these services.
** If you are a media org or an ngo that is looking to switch infrastructure vendors, fill our the following form and it will be handled discreetly: https://eu.jotform.com/form/252582843235359.
** If you are an AI/DevOps/Security service provider or any other service that you think the alliance will need in the future while building out its offerings, please get in touch.
*** Ping @erinm on Mattermost for contact details for the Journalism Cloud Alliance team.

====== '''Are there any resources that you recommend for individuals who want to learn more about alt infrastructure and services? Either for novices or more seasoned folks?''' ======

* [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/communal-internet-infrastructure Communal Internet Infrastructure report] - APC
* [https://mayfirst.coop/files/politics-practices-autonomous-technology.pdf Politics and practices of an autonomous technology, voices of the members of MayFirst] - MayFirst
* [https://openalternative.co/self-hosted OpenAlternative]'s self-hosted list that provides alternatives for almost all categories.

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-10T15:29:47Z

Erin:

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' March 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''First Steps Toward Adopting Alternative Infrastructure and Tools''</big>

<big>Come join us and share tips and experience on adopting alternative infrastructure and tools and divesting from extractive tech. Global Gathering programming proposals will also open on the 19th, so this is an opportunity to ask about programming themes, formats, and how to submit and proposal!</big>

</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==

====== '''Community News and Project Shout-Outs''' ======

* "[https://safeherclinic.org/ Safe Her Clinic] is a for women, by women digital security clinic supporting survivors of technology-facilitated gender-based violence."
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] offers "expert translation, editorial, and mentorship services from a global community, fuelling the Global Voices non-profit mission."
* ''Don't Delete Art'' is currently collaborating with ''Free The Nipple'' to highlight how female-presenting-nipple censorship affects art and artists. [https://www.dontdelete.art/free-the-nipple-x-dont-delete-art Check out the 2-month campaign].
* The Global Gathering is now accepting programming proposals! Approved applicants will be able to submit proposals by logging into the GG ticketing platform and selecting “Submit a Proposal” from the dashboard. You can also read more about this year’s programming themes and formats [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|on our wiki]].
* [https://www.instagram.com/saqfecollective/ SAQFE], a Moroccan intersectional Queer group, launched their documentary [https://www.youtube.com/@SAQFECOLLECTIVE TOUGHYAN] in March.
* "[https://dokie.li/ dokieli] is a clientside editor for decentralised article publishing, annotations, and social interactions.

====== '''When individuals and orgs want to approach self hosting or finding alternatives to the most common "Big Tech" services, what are some of the initial questions and considerations they should take into account?''' ======

* at APC we self-host most of the services we use and some of those we also offer to members. These are tools like '''Mattermost''', '''Nextcloud''', '''BigBlueButton''' and others. Since we are quite a large team, around 60 people in the org, '''we put a lot of emphasis in capacity building and tech support'''. '''In our experience we see that this is the most crucial aspect''', launching a VM and installing a service is just the start of the journey...
** '''Is there any chance APC may broaden their membership categories to provide this service?'''
*** Lately we are trying to welcome new members in a slower pace to make sure. But we can discuss other forms of partnering if you need access to some of the services we host.
* I have some experience from the security side with activist orgs and media mostly in Latam, and while in most cases having a healthy stack of self-hosted tools and/or services hosted in friendlier environments is super feasible. Often I end up being the annoying uncle reminding people of some trade-offs of both approaches.
** '''For self-hosted: there should be technical capacity and bandwidth to secure and keep updated the software.''' Already had a couple orgs that were compromised because of a super outdated nextcloud instance.
** '''For services in better jurisdictions: the biggest problems here are money and also know the providers.''' People with good reputation in the community, knowing the tech involved, the limitations, and alternative approaches could go a long way when migrating to other services
* For self-hosting, these days I am more focussed on '''edge networks/devices'''. Since [in India] it is quite difficult to host your own router or even have a bridge-router. Since all the major ISP use : TR-069 protocol and for the past few years they have moved to custom firmware where you cannot disable them at all.
* Grateful to have worked closely with APC team to learn and adapt secure autonomous digital infrastructure. There has been a real shift in our organizing with '''US-based activists who are seeing a need for alternatives to big tech''' in new ways. '''Trying to frame our FLOSS tools in ways that they can adopt more readily/easily'''. Eager to learn more from this space also about how folks are engaging with AI as well.
* I think one of the recommendations I got when struggling with if and how to divest from Google services was to really come to terms with that fact that '''you will not find one-to-one alternatives to Google and Microsoft etc.''' You have to understand that '''you won't get everything in the alternative you chose''' and it's about recognizing what you can and cannot live without and understanding that '''you need to adjust your workflow'''. Aaand, '''you can move to alternatives bit by bit'''. Maybe you can't find an alternative to one services Google provides, but you can move to alternatives for many other tools.
** While I agree, I also think '''we give too much credit to these big giants'''. My colleagues who use Microsoft are complaining about it all the time, and tools like '''Nextcloud''' have gotten so good, they really don't feel much different.
** Big Tech has become so entrenched in our digital lives, they've become complacent and have stopped innovating. '''We have gotten used to sh*tty tools because we don't realise the extent of our alternatives.'''
* For organizations, and I speak from an "operational point of view more than a tech one," '''it is important to understand that transitioning asks for time, commitment, support and a flexible heart'''. Learning needs to be ensured, modeled by the one who leads formally or informally. '''It's kind of going for a marathon or a long guided tour that does not leave anyone behind.''' We rise and fall, and in this we should laugh, see that all this moving away has a purpose called more autonomy and freedom, less surveillance. '''Our alternative buildings, houses, one-room flat infrastructure will never compete and should not with the 5-star hotel and service system of big corporation.'''
** What torments me is how to build hubs for the ones who are in volunteer and grassroots organizing and face everyday so much that transitioning autonomously to a different infrastructure seems almost prohibitive... This is where we need to pull something together, with we being the ones who have or could have some resources to offer/share/maintain...
* '''Some important questions are:'''
** How big is the user base for those services?
** What are some must have features that need to be in the alternative?
** Where will it be hosted?
** Can we be able to maintain it in the long run?
* It is a big mindset shift...it is also important to recognize that '''you / the org will need to get the hands dirty, there is more work to do, more things to consider.''' Things that are all outsourced when you hire Google or Microsoft, when you take control back of your data you are also responsible for caring for a lot of other aspects. So '''it is not possible to compare apples to carrots.'''

====== '''For individuals and organizations who do not have the resources and technical expertise in-house to own and manage their own infrastructure, what options/approaches are there that still allow for more autonomy and security?''' ======

* ...What I find very interesting and fascinating is '''multiple groups coming together to share costs of services or sharing capacity and learning opportunity'''.
** I love this idea of organizations coming together to share the burden when one org cannot. I wonder if this is an approach that more organizations within our digital rights space could adopt collectively?
* Among the "hardware services," we also desperately need "Migration Support Services"... Once the decision to choose new options is made, this is THE biggest barrier.

====== '''There are a number of organizations and cooperatives (some that have already been brought up earlier in the convo) that provide services like hosting, email, conferencing, productivity tools, etc. as alternatives to Google, Microsoft, Amazon and other Big Tech and proprietary options. Are there services that you have used and recommend?''' ======

* Shout out to APC members '''[https://www.greennet.org.uk/ GreenNet]''' and '''[https://mayfirst.coop/en/ MayFirst]''' who both offer services like email hosting, web hosting, and more. Orgs with great ethics and commitments since the early days of the Internet.
* '''[https://sutty.coop.ar/en/services/preservation/ Sutty]''' is also offering a preservation service for old websites that are hard to maintain.
* We've had really wonderful experience with '''[https://cloud68.co/ Cloud68]''' for their managed hosting, maintenance, and tech support - also deeply aligned values and great communicators (esp. important to me as someone without a tech background)
** '''Cloud68''' is established in Estonia, with main servers in Germany, and encrypted backups in France. This is by design to not have all it's eggs in one basket. The team is spread in various cities in Europe.
* '''[https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost]''' for VPSs, sustainable webhosting and more.
* [https://maadix.net/en/ '''Maadix'''] "The online tools we use everyday, now preserving your digital autonomy, the privacy of your communications and the security of your data."
* [https://fullstackjournalism.eu/ '''Full Stack Journalism'''] is "a community of independent newsrooms helping each other make informed choices about the technologies we use. We want technology to foster independent journalism, drive new revenue models, and improve collaboration - without compromising on the values that help us build trust with our communities."
* [https://gfmd.info/cloud-alliance/ '''The Journalism Cloud Alliance'''] provides infrastructure services specially designed for media organizations. People are worried about jurisdiction now more than ever, and they need a vendor that will back them when they would be censored. Also prices, commercial cloud offerings have been increasing prices to the point that it's now choking some smaller orgs. The 60 direct alliance members (IIRC) are based around the world and some of are regional networks.
** '''At this stage the alliance is offering services with easy migration paths: VPS, storage, VPN, and we are also piloting workspace tools like nextcloud and big blue button''' only to teams already experienced in such tools. Ultimately the end the alliance would like to offer '''infrastructure, workspace and amplification tools''' (CMS, mass email, and other publication strategies). They have also received request for '''AI services, Devops and security service'''s, which will not be provided at least for a year, so they are building a consultant network for these services.
** If you are a media org or an ngo that is looking to switch infrastructure vendors, fill our the following form and it will be handled discreetly: https://eu.jotform.com/form/252582843235359.
** If you are an AI/DevOps/Security service provider or any other service that you think the alliance will need in the future while building out its offerings, please get in touch.
*** Ping @erinm on Mattermost for contact details for the Journalism Cloud Alliance team.

====== '''Are there any resources that you recommend for individuals who want to learn more about alt infrastructure and services? Either for novices or more seasoned folks?''' ======

* [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/communal-internet-infrastructure Communal Internet Infrastructure report] - APC
* [https://mayfirst.coop/files/politics-practices-autonomous-technology.pdf Politics and practices of an autonomous technology, voices of the members of MayFirst] - MayFirst
* [https://openalternative.co/self-hosted OpenAlternative]'s self-hosted list that provides alternatives for almost all categories.

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-10T15:27:31Z

Erin:

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' March 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''First Steps Toward Adopting Alternative Infrastructure and Tools''</big>

<big>Come join us and share tips and experience on adopting alternative infrastructure and tools and divesting from extractive tech. Global Gathering programming proposals will also open on the 19th, so this is an opportunity to ask about programming themes, formats, and how to submit and proposal!</big>

</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==

====== '''Community News and Project Shout-Outs''' ======

* "[https://safeherclinic.org/ Safe Her Clinic] is a for women, by women digital security clinic supporting survivors of technology-facilitated gender-based violence."
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] offers "expert translation, editorial, and mentorship services from a global community, fuelling the Global Voices non-profit mission."
* ''Don't Delete Art'' is currently collaborating with ''Free The Nipple'' to highlight how female-presenting-nipple censorship affects art and artists. [https://www.dontdelete.art/free-the-nipple-x-dont-delete-art Check out the 2-month campaign].
* The Global Gathering is now accepting programming proposals! Approved applicants will be able to submit proposals by logging into the GG ticketing platform and selecting “Submit a Proposal” from the dashboard. You can also read more about this year’s programming themes and formats [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|on our wiki]].
* [https://www.instagram.com/saqfecollective/ SAQFE], a Moroccan intersectional Queer group, launched their documentary [https://www.youtube.com/@SAQFECOLLECTIVE TOUGHYAN] in March.
* "[https://dokie.li/ dokieli] is a clientside editor for decentralised article publishing, annotations, and social interactions.

====== '''When individuals and orgs want to approach self hosting or finding alternatives to the most common "Big Tech" services, what are some of the initial questions and considerations they should take into account?''' ======

* at APC we self-host most of the services we use and some of those we also offer to members. These are tools like '''Mattermost''', '''Nextcloud''', '''BigBlueButton''' and others. Since we are quite a large team, around 60 people in the org, '''we put a lot of emphasis in capacity building and tech support'''. '''In our experience we see that this is the most crucial aspect''', launching a VM and installing a service is just the start of the journey...
** '''Is there any chance APC may broaden their membership categories to provide this service?'''
*** Lately we are trying to welcome new members in a slower pace to make sure. But we can discuss other forms of partnering if you need access to some of the services we host.
* I have some experience from the security side with activist orgs and media mostly in Latam, and while in most cases having a healthy stack of self-hosted tools and/or services hosted in friendlier environments is super feasible. Often I end up being the annoying uncle reminding people of some trade-offs of both approaches.
** '''For self-hosted: there should be technical capacity and bandwidth to secure and keep updated the software.''' Already had a couple orgs that were compromised because of a super outdated nextcloud instance.
** '''For services in better jurisdictions: the biggest problems here are money and also know the providers.''' People with good reputation in the community, knowing the tech involved, the limitations, and alternative approaches could go a long way when migrating to other services
* For self-hosting, these days I am more focussed on '''edge networks/devices'''. Since [in India] it is quite difficult to host your own router or even have a bridge-router. Since all the major ISP use : TR-069 protocol and for the past few years they have moved to custom firmware where you cannot disable them at all.
* Grateful to have worked closely with APC team to learn and adapt secure autonomous digital infrastructure. There has been a real shift in our organizing with '''US-based activists who are seeing a need for alternatives to big tech''' in new ways. '''Trying to frame our FLOSS tools in ways that they can adopt more readily/easily'''. Eager to learn more from this space also about how folks are engaging with AI as well.
* I think one of the recommendations I got when struggling with if and how to divest from Google services was to really come to terms with that fact that '''you will not find one-to-one alternatives to Google and Microsoft etc.''' You have to understand that '''you won't get everything in the alternative you chose''' and it's about recognizing what you can and cannot live without and understanding that '''you need to adjust your workflow'''. Aaand, '''you can move to alternatives bit by bit'''. Maybe you can't find an alternative to one services Google provides, but you can move to alternatives for many other tools.
** While I agree, I also think '''we give too much credit to these big giants'''. My colleagues who use Microsoft are complaining about it all the time, and tools like '''Nextcloud''' have gotten so good, they really don't feel much different.
** Big Tech has become so entrenched in our digital lives, they've become complacent and have stopped innovating. '''We have gotten used to sh*tty tools because we don't realise the extent of our alternatives.'''
* For organizations, and I speak from an "operational point of view more than a tech one," '''it is important to understand that transitioning asks for time, commitment, support and a flexible heart'''. Learning needs to be ensured, modeled by the one who leads formally or informally. '''It's kind of going for a marathon or a long guided tour that does not leave anyone behind.''' We rise and fall, and in this we should laugh, see that all this moving away has a purpose called more autonomy and freedom, less surveillance. '''Our alternative buildings, houses, one-room flat infrastructure will never compete and should not with the 5-star hotel and service system of big corporation.'''
** What torments me is how to build hubs for the ones who are in volunteer and grassroots organizing and face everyday so much that transitioning autonomously to a different infrastructure seems almost prohibitive... This is where we need to pull something together, with we being the ones who have or could have some resources to offer/share/maintain...
* '''Some important questions are:'''
** How big is the user base for those services?
** What are some must have features that need to be in the alternative?
** Where will it be hosted?
** Can we be able to maintain it in the long run?
* It is a big mindset shift...it is also important to recognize that '''you / the org will need to get the hands dirty, there is more work to do, more things to consider.''' Things that are all outsourced when you hire Google or Microsoft, when you take control back of your data you are also responsible for caring for a lot of other aspects. So '''it is not possible to compare apples to carrots.'''

====== '''For individuals and organizations who do not have the resources and technical expertise in-house to own and manage their own infrastructure, what options/approaches are there that still allow for more autonomy and security?''' ======

* ...What I find very interesting and fascinating is '''multiple groups coming together to share costs of services or sharing capacity and learning opportunity'''.
** I love this idea of organizations coming together to share the burden when one org cannot. I wonder if this is an approach that more organizations within our digital rights space could adopt collectively?
* Among the "hardware services," we also desperately need "Migration Support Services"... Once the decision to choose new options is made, this is THE biggest barrier.

====== '''There are a number of organizations and cooperatives (some that have already been brought up earlier in the convo) that provide services like hosting, email, conferencing, productivity tools, etc. as alternatives to Google, Microsoft, Amazon and other Big Tech and proprietary options. Are there services that you have used and recommend?''' ======

* Shout out to APC members '''[https://www.greennet.org.uk/ GreenNet]''' and '''[https://mayfirst.coop/en/ MayFirst]''' who both offer services like email hosting, web hosting, and more. Orgs with great ethics and commitments since the early days of the Internet.
* '''[https://sutty.coop.ar/en/services/preservation/ Sutty]''' is also offering a preservation service for old websites that are hard to maintain.
* We've had really wonderful experience with '''[https://cloud68.co/ Cloud68]''' for their managed hosting, maintenance, and tech support - also deeply aligned values and great communicators (esp. important to me as someone without a tech background)
** '''Cloud68''' is established in Estonia, with main servers in Germany, and encrypted backups in France. This is by design to not have all it's eggs in one basket. The team is spread in various cities in Europe.
* '''[https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost]''' for VPSs, sustainable webhosting and more.
* [https://maadix.net/en/ '''Maadix'''] "The online tools we use everyday, now preserving your digital autonomy, the privacy of your communications and the security of your data."
* [https://fullstackjournalism.eu/ Full Stack Journalism] is "a community of independent newsrooms helping each other make informed choices about the technologies we use. We want technology to foster independent journalism, drive new revenue models, and improve collaboration - without compromising on the values that help us build trust with our communities."
* [https://gfmd.info/cloud-alliance/ The Journalism Cloud Alliance] provides infrastructure services specially designed for media organizations. People are worried about jurisdiction now more than ever, and they need a vendor that will back them when they would be censored. Also prices, commercial cloud offerings have been increasing prices to the point that it's now choking some smaller orgs. The 60 direct alliance members (IIRC) are based around the world and some of are regional networks.
** While the Journalism Cloud Alliance has very ambitious goals of having its own servers and services, it is starting small. The alliance is finalizing the agreements with several ALIGNED vendors that are promising DDoS and legal pushback to our members and hopes to pilot in April. '''At this stage the alliance is only offering services with easy migration paths: VPS, storage, VPN, and we are also piloting workspace tools like nextcloud and big blue button''' only to teams already experienced in such tools. In the end the alliance would like to offer '''infrastructure, workspace and amplification tools''' (CMS, mass email, and other publication strategies). They have also received request for '''AI services, Devops and security service'''s, which will not be provided at least for a year, so they are building a consultant network for these services.
** '''The alliance plans to have a support team and migration team''' by the end of the year, allowing them to offer advisory services for teams that need help in migrating away from corporate tools and complex deployments.
** The Journalism Cloud Alliance has monthly meetings and will be in attendance at the 2026 the International Journalism Festival in Perugia.
** If you are a media org or an ngo that is looking to switch infrastructure vendors, fill our the following form and it will be handled discreetly: https://eu.jotform.com/form/252582843235359.
** If you are an AI/DevOps/Security service provider or any other service that you think the alliance will need in the future while building out its offerings, please get in touch.
*** Ping @erinm on Mattermost for contact details for the Journalism Cloud Alliance team.

====== '''Are there any resources that you recommend for individuals who want to learn more about alt infrastructure and services? Either for novices or more seasoned folks?''' ======

* [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/communal-internet-infrastructure Communal Internet Infrastructure report] - APC
* [https://mayfirst.coop/files/politics-practices-autonomous-technology.pdf Politics and practices of an autonomous technology, voices of the members of MayFirst] - MayFirst
* [https://openalternative.co/self-hosted OpenAlternative]'s self-hosted list that provides alternatives for almost all categories.

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-10T14:57:12Z

Erin:

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' February 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''Communicating Securely With Your Network: Secure Communications Apps, Protocols, and Best Tips''</big>

<big>During our February Digital Rights Social, we will be discussing secure communications apps and best tips to communicate securely with your network. While the conversation will remain organic, and also include space to connect with other participants, we will be inviting experts to join the conversation as well!</big>
</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==
<big>The following [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-secure-communications What is Secure Communications] primer was created with these notes, with some other information added.</big>

====== '''What the community is reading right now...''' ======
* The Hakawati - Rabih Alameddine
* Project Hail Mary - Andy Weir
* The Expanse (series) - James S. A. Corey
* The Other Wind - Ursula K. Le Guin
* Cielos de Córdoba - F. Falco
* Seeing (Portuguese: Ensaio sobre a Lucidez, lit. Essay on Lucidity) - José Saramago
* Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin - Andrew S. Weiss
* White Nights - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
* El invencible verano de Liliana - Cristina Rivera Garza
* Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë
* Moderation - Elaine Castillo
* Sunburn - Chloe Michelle Howarth

====== '''Community News and Project Updates''' ======
* [https://cyd.social/ Cyd] is trying to (finally) make a dev release to delete all your wall data from Facebook! Cyd currently allows you to back up, delete and migrate your data on X.
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] is in the process of being launched!
* The early beta of [https://phnx.im/ Phoenix R&D]'s Air ([https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7410371597062258690-r5_Y LinkedIn], [https://mastodon.social/@phoenix_r_d/115787008878946009 Mastodon]) was launched a couple of weeks ago!
** The beta is invite-only, so if you are interested in trying it out, message @cityroler directly on Mattermost for an invitation code.
* The [https://escuelacomun.yanapak.org/ Escuela Común] 2026 cohort has started!
* [https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz6ed1549yvo Tech firms will have 48 hours to remove abusive images under new law]

====== '''Community-recommended projects and reading to explore...''' ======
* [https://blackskyweb.xyz/ Blacksky Algorithms]
* [https://aihumanstory.substack.com/p/when-the-internet-goes-dark When the Internet Goes Dark]: ''Uganda killed the internet. 400,000 people had already downloaded Bitchat''
* [https://riseagainstbig.tech/ Rise Against Big Tech]
* [https://www.resistandunsubscribe.com/ Resist and Unsubscribe]
* [https://fedi.the-counterforce.org/ Fediverse Punk Month]

====== '''Because a tool in itself is not a solution to securing comms...Which practices have you found most valuable to improving security and safety within your network communications?''' ======
* This is a good question, I think one of the main things is '''really leaning into message safety and also being sure to not talk about specific things on platforms or certain messaging apps that can be traced'''. Another thing is '''setting times on how long a message will show''' specifically in spaces like signal. That's what we do in some of the groups that I'm in and specifically with our work at Blacksky.
* One small practice I have found really helpful in one larger Signal group I am in that I haven't seen in other larger groups I've been in... The group is invite-only and the admins not only '''first introduce any new recommendations''' '''to the group''' within the chat, but they '''require that more than one person within the existing group approve of the new add'''.
* In my case, in my trainings and other engagements, I try to '''find the balance between security and usability''', because in many communities people don't necessarily are up to adopting more complicated tools even when that means more security. So that's the tricky part. '''We usually need to find weird balances ensuring the security of this at risk communities but in a way that makes sense to them'''.
* For me, the most important practice (very low tech, I know) is '''starting by understanding how target communities communicate among themselves already, so you can build strategies and improve processes from there, instead of imposing new tools and processes'''. Once this is overcome, it's way easier to create more awareness, conduct trainings, introduce new concepts, and in some cases new tools, but the start would be to meeting people where they are and going from there.
* '''Skill-sharing and internal mentoring for new members''' help to include our less technical members and make the whole network stronger.
* '''Create an environment where no question is stupid''', and is OK to say 'I dont know how to do that'.
* TBH lately I've had to '''warn and then block persons who are careless with critiques over chats''' like WhatsApp. Reverting to email (not a great replacement) or in-person (limited).
* Even in "secure comm" channels, I try to get people to consider:
** '''Is it necessary to share this much information?'''
** '''Does the information I share help those who would choose to carry out nefarious actions?'''
* In my case, I also have to '''balance usability and security'''. Lately, I have been '''focusing on WhatsApp’s security settings''', especially in the context of searching mothers of missing people. Many of them are '''older adults''' who travel to '''areas with very limited mobile data coverage''' (and dangerous places). '''In these situations, WhatsApp’s lower cost represent a significant advantage'''. And trying in small steps moving to signal for part of the communications.
** It's a challenge when connectivity is limited. Also, WhatsApp is the network of choice - everyone's there and adoption of another app where few family and local community members "reside" is resisted by older folks, less digitally literate people, and people who have cheap phones with limited storage space.
* '''There is a nuance here where we want people to feel the freedom to share what they need to have the community they need... and yet, still be proactively thinking about what they share and how it can be misused.'''
* The whole '''<nowiki/>'no, I don't have social media' is getting harder to do'''. Lately is getting hard with some collectives using their Instagram handle as their point of contact. They don't even have a gmail address anymore. They just say their Instagram handle. I have tried to explain that you cannot even look at their page without an Instagram account and they think I am an idiot. I think it is important to make collectives understand that Instagram is an addictive app and is simply not OK to force people to join, is like inviting people to try heroine.
** In my country (at least) it is almost impossible not to use Whatsapp: you need it even for citizenship matters and procedures... also, because if you do not have instagram other people will not notice you... '''it is almost impossible not to need [social media] at some point.'''
* Just a simple thing to mention, but I find it makes a difference, is a little game in which '''we try apps for funny things, or sexy things among some queer communities'''. '''People have fun, keep the emotional good feeling related to those apps/tools''' and that makes it more likely to give them a try in new contexts, after the training<br />

====== '''Do you have a favorite educational resource that you share with your networks about communicating more securely?''' ======
* [https://freedom.press/digisec/blog/locking-down-signal/ Locking down Signal] - Freedom of the Press Foundation
* [https://ssd.eff.org/module/communicating-others Communicating With Others] - Surveillance Self-Defense from the Electronic Frontier Foundation
** Easy, short, and introduces a-bit-more-complex subjects. Full of links if people want to know more.
* [https://tor-https.eff.org/ How HTTPS and Tor Work Together to Protect Your Anonymity and Privacy] - Surveillance Self-Defense from the Electronic Frontier Foundation
* [https://www.theverge.com/tech/872493/signal-community-organizing-guide-group-chat A community organizer’s guide to Signal group chats] - The Verge
* <nowiki>https://securemessagingapps.com</nowiki> - Secure Messaging App Comparison Site
* [https://quiz.shira.app/ Shira Quiz] from [https://wearehorizontal.org/index Horizontal], developers of [https://shira.app/ Shira App]
** An educational and very practical resource to avoid phishing and communicate securely.
* [https://micahflee.com/using-signal-groups-for-activism/ Using Signal groups for activism] - Micah Lee

====== '''What are some of the biggest security challenges or concerns you have while communicating within your networks? Are there any lingering questions about secure comms that you would like to share?''' ======
* There are so many different applications, groups, chats, servers, etc. It's very hard to keep up with and might create a sense of having too much information to consume every hour of your day. Hopefully there are ways that we can moderate and better control this influx of information so it's not like a community equivalent to social media.
* We need to get away from everything WhatsApp. People really believe WhatsApp "encryption" is safe and secure to speak about GBV and state violence. It's not true. The digital divide between Global South and Global North is not just delayed access to resources, devices, internet services and digital use literacy, but a time lag in understanding that surveillance and data collection are everywhere... and we don't just have to accept it, we can move to alternatives.
* Big tech's increased capitulation to surveillance and fascism, lack of interoperability between platforms, and inertia are some big challenges. Migrating from discord, Slack, Whatsapp, etc. should be made easier. The question remains "to what" of course! So answering that, and making migration dead-easy, is critical.
** There also needs to be healthy skepticism of the big tech alternatives. A tool may be more privacy-preserving in its early stages, but what guarantees are in place to ensure it won't grow and evolve into a data-mining, surveillance tool in future?

April 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-10T12:58:40Z

Erin:

October 15, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-01T15:31:52Z

Erin:

November 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-01T15:31:35Z

Erin:

December 17, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-04-01T15:31:10Z

Erin:

June 18, 2026, Digital Rights Social

2026-04-01T15:30:45Z

Erin:

May 21, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-03-24T13:08:07Z

Erin:

April 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-03-24T13:07:35Z

Erin:

Community Updates

2026-03-24T13:07:14Z

Erin: /* 📌 Upcoming Socials */

__NOTOC__

== Digital Rights Monthly Socials ==
{| style="width:100%;"
|style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">
<big>'''When:''' Every Third Thursday of the Month<br><br>
'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]<br><br>
'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big>

<big>
Connect with the global Digital Rights community every month on TCU's virtual community space. Learn about new projects, share your own work and research, and discuss updates and announcements from the digital rights space! Leading experts and projects will also be featured on a regular basis.
</big>

''To attend you must be registered on [[TCU Mattermost|TCU's Mattermost]]. Want to be a featured guest? Reach out to team@digitalrights.community!''
</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|alt=Digital Rights monthly socials|frameless]]
|}

== '''📌 Upcoming Socials''' ==

<big>[[April 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

'''<big>Spyware Protection and Transnational Repression</big>'''

<big>[[May 21, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[June 18, 2026, Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[July 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[October 15, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[November 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[December 17, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>.

== '''📁 Past Socials With Notes''' ==

<big>[[January 22, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

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=='''Notes from Past Glitter Meetups'''==

The following are community updates from a weekly meetup we use to host, that served as a type of weekly town hall of the digital rights community. This was put on paused because of historic funding cuts the digital rights field began to face in 2025. However, we encourage you to look at the notes.
----
'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2025]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2024]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2023]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2022]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2021]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2020]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes Before March 26, 2020]]'''

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-19T10:55:29Z

Erin: /* Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!! */

__NOTOC__

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>

==== '''<big>Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!!</big>''' ====
Only individuals who have applied and been approved to join the GG can submit proposals. If you have not applied for the GG, you can do so here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

Approved applicants will be able to submit proposals on the dashboard of the GG ticketing platform.

== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==
The Global Gathering’s programming is unique, using specific formats and focusing on certain themes every year. We highly encourage you to read the page below, which will help you submit a stronger proposal. '''New to 2026:''' We will be featuring a limited number of skill-share workshops!

At the GG we look for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps:

* Advance shared goals
* Improves skills
* Creates collective knowledge
* Supports the mapping out and mobilization of networks around current and emerging challenges
* Projects and individuals share their work with others.

== '''2026 Themes''' ==
<big>In addition to the themes listed below, this year we will be creating special topical hubs via multi-day programming, or “Villages”, focused on organizational security, spyware, circumvention technology, and secure communications and documentation, as well as LGBTQAI+ and regional hubs.</big>

=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities
* Organizational security in low-resource environments
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists
* Challenges and updates in security education and training
* Whistleblowing protection
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field

=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===
* Current research and frontline insights
* Threat and/or trend discovery
* New and emerging spyware developments
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship
* Challenges and updates in security education and training

=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies

=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes

=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation
== '''Programming Formats''' ==

=== Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting ===
Booths are hosted in the permanent kiosks found in the GG’s unique venue, reminiscent of a renaissance fair. They serve as the cornerstone of the event, offering flexible spaces for participants to share, create and connect, while dynamically engaging directly with participants to forge trust-based relationships and discover powerful collaborations.

Booth shifts last two hours. We highly recommend you decorate your booth in a fun and creative way and bring your computer or devices if you want to showcase virtual materials. Electrical outlets are available in each booth. More information about booth sizing and amenities is available [[Global Gathering Booths|'''here''']]. You can see a sample of booth pictures [[Global Gathering#pics|here:]]

'''There are many ways you can use Booths, including:'''
* '''Showcase your project or organization''' and connect with attendees through conversation, materials, and Q&A.
* '''Run a tool demo''', allowing participants to try out your project firsthand.
* '''Host a game or activity''', especially one with an educational or awareness-raising goal.
* '''Host a community space inside your booth,''' creating a hub for individuals from a particular network to collaborate, share, and network.
* '''Offer a service,''' such as digital security support or UX consultations.
* '''Curate an exhibit''' that creatively showcases your work at the intersection of digital and human rights.
* '''Share research or published work''' with participants and answer their questions.
* '''Host a mini-workshop''' that allows attendees to engage with your team and learn something new.

=== Circles: Collaborative Discussions Rooted in Action ===
Circles are 45-minute collaborative discussions facilitated by you. Rooted in action, they can take the form of strategic discussions, action-planning around common challenges, or knowledge exchange around a specific area. They should reflect collective interest, not just individual ideas.

We prioritize Circles that address urgent needs, reflect GG themes, will be of interest to the largest percentage of participants, and have multiple collaborators and/or stakeholders involved.

'''Note:''' Circles are not the right space for one-way presentations or demos; they should be collaborative discussions that engage participants. If you would like to demo or showcase a project, organization, or research, consider hosting a booth.

'''Pro-Tip:''' Prior to the event, we will provide a virtual community space on our Mattermost for networking. This is a great place to find co-faciliators for your proposal OR invite folks to your Circle, if it is accepted.

=== Skill-Share Workshops: Strengthening Capacity ===
Skill-share Workshops improve capacity by leveling up participants’ skills or deepening their knowledge. Workshops can last from 45 minutes to 90 minutes and can be directed to novices or seasoned experts. Workshops should be focused on skill-building in a particular area and should not centered around one specific tool or project. This year we will be scheduling workshops both in the mornings, before the start of the event, and during the event itself.

'''Note:''' The Global Gathering venue is low-tech and workshops must be delivered without the use of projectors or screens, however large notepads will be provided.

=== Meetups: Building Trust ===
'''Meetups''' bring together folks who have a shared interest, demographic, or work area to network and build trust in a more relaxed environment. While Circles are about discussing issues, Meetups are about connecting humans and learning about each other.

We are currently only accepting proposals for meetups that are focused on specific digital rights themes or profiles that will attract a large number of participants OR off-site meetups that are more complex to plan and require TCU support. You will have ample opportunity while physically in Portugal to propose smaller, off-site meetups. Directions will be provided in the month prior to the event. We have very limited space for meetups in the venue, and may recommend a nearby location.

'''Examples:'''

* '''Work-Themed Meetups:''' Spyware Researchers, System Administrators Getting Off Big Tech, Security Specialists in Journalism
* '''Large-Scale Events or Activities Open to All Participants:''' 5K walk or run on boardwalk, picnic at a nearby beach, after-hours fundraiser at a nearby restaurant, game night at a local cafe, surfing get together, regional dinner.

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-19T07:28:41Z

Erin: /* Skill-Share Workshops */

__NOTOC__

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>

==== '''<big>Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!!</big>''' ====
Only individuals who have applied and been approved to join the GG can submit proposals. If you have not applied for the GG, you can do so here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==
The Global Gathering’s programming is unique, using specific formats and focusing on certain themes every year. We highly encourage you to read the page below, which will help you submit a stronger proposal. '''New to 2026:''' We will be featuring a limited number of skill-share workshops!

At the GG we look for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps:

* Advance shared goals
* Improves skills
* Creates collective knowledge
* Supports the mapping out and mobilization of networks around current and emerging challenges
* Projects and individuals share their work with others.

== '''2026 Themes''' ==
<big>In addition to the themes listed below, this year we will be creating special topical hubs via multi-day programming, or “Villages”, focused on organizational security, spyware, circumvention technology, and secure communications and documentation, as well as LGBTQAI+ and regional hubs.</big>

=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities
* Organizational security in low-resource environments
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists
* Challenges and updates in security education and training
* Whistleblowing protection
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field

=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===
* Current research and frontline insights
* Threat and/or trend discovery
* New and emerging spyware developments
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship
* Challenges and updates in security education and training

=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies

=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes

=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation
== '''Programming Formats''' ==

=== Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting ===
Booths are hosted in the permanent kiosks found in the GG’s unique venue, reminiscent of a renaissance fair. They serve as the cornerstone of the event, offering flexible spaces for participants to share, create and connect, while dynamically engaging directly with participants to forge trust-based relationships and discover powerful collaborations.

Booth shifts last two hours. We highly recommend you decorate your booth in a fun and creative way and bring your computer or devices if you want to showcase virtual materials. Electrical outlets are available in each booth. More information about booth sizing and amenities is available [[Global Gathering Booths|'''here''']]. You can see a sample of booth pictures [[Global Gathering#pics|here:]]

'''There are many ways you can use Booths, including:'''
* '''Showcase your project or organization''' and connect with attendees through conversation, materials, and Q&A.
* '''Run a tool demo''', allowing participants to try out your project firsthand.
* '''Host a game or activity''', especially one with an educational or awareness-raising goal.
* '''Host a community space inside your booth,''' creating a hub for individuals from a particular network to collaborate, share, and network.
* '''Offer a service,''' such as digital security support or UX consultations.
* '''Curate an exhibit''' that creatively showcases your work at the intersection of digital and human rights.
* '''Share research or published work''' with participants and answer their questions.
* '''Host a mini-workshop''' that allows attendees to engage with your team and learn something new.

=== Circles: Collaborative Discussions Rooted in Action ===
Circles are 45-minute collaborative discussions facilitated by you. Rooted in action, they can take the form of strategic discussions, action-planning around common challenges, or knowledge exchange around a specific area. They should reflect collective interest, not just individual ideas.

We prioritize Circles that address urgent needs, reflect GG themes, will be of interest to the largest percentage of participants, and have multiple collaborators and/or stakeholders involved.

'''Note:''' Circles are not the right space for one-way presentations or demos; they should be collaborative discussions that engage participants. If you would like to demo or showcase a project, organization, or research, consider hosting a booth.

'''Pro-Tip:''' Prior to the event, we will provide a virtual community space on our Mattermost for networking. This is a great place to find co-faciliators for your proposal OR invite folks to your Circle, if it is accepted.

=== Skill-Share Workshops: Strengthening Capacity ===
Skill-share Workshops improve capacity by leveling up participants’ skills or deepening their knowledge. Workshops can last from 45 minutes to 90 minutes and can be directed to novices or seasoned experts. Workshops should be focused on skill-building in a particular area and should not centered around one specific tool or project. This year we will be scheduling workshops both in the mornings, before the start of the event, and during the event itself.

'''Note:''' The Global Gathering venue is low-tech and workshops must be delivered without the use of projectors or screens, however large notepads will be provided.

=== Meetups: Building Trust ===
'''Meetups''' bring together folks who have a shared interest, demographic, or work area to network and build trust in a more relaxed environment. While Circles are about discussing issues, Meetups are about connecting humans and learning about each other.

We are currently only accepting proposals for meetups that are focused on specific digital rights themes or profiles that will attract a large number of participants OR off-site meetups that are more complex to plan and require TCU support. You will have ample opportunity while physically in Portugal to propose smaller, off-site meetups. Directions will be provided in the month prior to the event. We have very limited space for meetups in the venue, and may recommend a nearby location.

'''Examples:'''

* '''Work-Themed Meetups:''' Spyware Researchers, System Administrators Getting Off Big Tech, Security Specialists in Journalism
* '''Large-Scale Events or Activities Open to All Participants:''' 5K walk or run on boardwalk, picnic at a nearby beach, after-hours fundraiser at a nearby restaurant, game night at a local cafe, surfing get together, regional dinner.

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-19T07:21:07Z

Erin: /* The Formats */

__NOTOC__

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>

==== '''<big>Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!!</big>''' ====
Only individuals who have applied and been approved to join the GG can submit proposals. If you have not applied for the GG, you can do so here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==
The Global Gathering’s programming is unique, using specific formats and focusing on certain themes every year. We highly encourage you to read the page below, which will help you submit a stronger proposal. '''New to 2026:''' We will be featuring a limited number of skill-share workshops!

At the GG we look for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps:

* Advance shared goals
* Improves skills
* Creates collective knowledge
* Supports the mapping out and mobilization of networks around current and emerging challenges
* Projects and individuals share their work with others.

== '''2026 Themes''' ==
<big>In addition to the themes listed below, this year we will be creating special topical hubs via multi-day programming, or “Villages”, focused on organizational security, spyware, circumvention technology, and secure communications and documentation, as well as LGBTQAI+ and regional hubs.</big>

=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities
* Organizational security in low-resource environments
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists
* Challenges and updates in security education and training
* Whistleblowing protection
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field

=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===
* Current research and frontline insights
* Threat and/or trend discovery
* New and emerging spyware developments
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship
* Challenges and updates in security education and training

=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies

=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes

=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation
== '''Programming Formats''' ==

=== Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting ===
Booths are hosted in the permanent kiosks found in the GG’s unique venue, reminiscent of a renaissance fair. They serve as the cornerstone of the event, offering flexible spaces for participants to share, create and connect, while dynamically engaging directly with participants to forge trust-based relationships and discover powerful collaborations.

Booth shifts last two hours. We highly recommend you decorate your booth in a fun and creative way and bring your computer or devices if you want to showcase virtual materials. Electrical outlets are available in each booth. More information about booth sizing and amenities is available [[Global Gathering Booths|'''here''']]. You can see a sample of booth pictures [[Global Gathering#pics|here:]]

'''There are many ways you can use Booths, including:'''
* '''Showcase your project or organization''' and connect with attendees through conversation, materials, and Q&A.
* '''Run a tool demo''', allowing participants to try out your project firsthand.
* '''Host a game or activity''', especially one with an educational or awareness-raising goal.
* '''Host a community space inside your booth,''' creating a hub for individuals from a particular network to collaborate, share, and network.
* '''Offer a service,''' such as digital security support or UX consultations.
* '''Curate an exhibit''' that creatively showcases your work at the intersection of digital and human rights.
* '''Share research or published work''' with participants and answer their questions.
* '''Host a mini-workshop''' that allows attendees to engage with your team and learn something new.

=== Circles: Collaborative Discussions Rooted in Action ===
Circles are 45-minute collaborative discussions facilitated by you. Rooted in action, they can take the form of strategic discussions, action-planning around common challenges, or knowledge exchange around a specific area. They should reflect collective interest, not just individual ideas.

We prioritize Circles that address urgent needs, reflect GG themes, will be of interest to the largest percentage of participants, and have multiple collaborators and/or stakeholders involved.

'''Note:''' Circles are not the right space for one-way presentations or demos; they should be collaborative discussions that engage participants. If you would like to demo or showcase a project, organization, or research, consider hosting a booth.

'''Pro-Tip:''' Prior to the event, we will provide a virtual community space on our Mattermost for networking. This is a great place to find co-faciliators for your proposal OR invite folks to your Circle, if it is accepted.

=== Skill-Share Workshops ===
Skill-share Workshops improve capacity by leveling up participants’ skills or deepening their knowledge. Workshops can last from 45 minutes to 90 minutes and can be directed to novices or seasoned experts. Workshops should be focused on skill-building in a particular area and should not centered around one specific tool or project. This year we will be scheduling workshops both in the mornings, before the start of the event, and during the event itself.

'''Note:''' The Global Gathering venue is low-tech and workshops must be delivered without the use of projectors or screens, however large notepads will be provided.

=== Meetups ===
'''Meetups''' bring together folks who have a shared interest, demographic, or work area to network and build trust in a more relaxed environment. While Circles are about discussing issues, Meetups are about connecting humans and learning about each other.

We are currently only accepting proposals for meetups that are focused on specific digital rights themes or profiles that will attract a large number of participants OR off-site meetups that are more complex to plan and require TCU support. You will have ample opportunity while physically in Portugal to propose smaller, off-site meetups. Directions will be provided in the month prior to the event. We have very limited space for meetups in the venue, and may recommend a nearby location.

'''Examples:'''

* '''Work-Themed Meetups:''' Spyware Researchers, System Administrators Getting Off Big Tech, Security Specialists in Journalism
* '''Large-Scale Events or Activities Open to All Participants:''' 5K walk or run on boardwalk, picnic at a nearby beach, after-hours fundraiser at a nearby restaurant, game night at a local cafe, surfing get together, regional dinner.

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-19T07:09:20Z

Erin: /* Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting */

__NOTOC__

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>

==== '''<big>Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!!</big>''' ====
Only individuals who have applied and been approved to join the GG can submit proposals. If you have not applied for the GG, you can do so here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==
The Global Gathering’s programming is unique, using specific formats and focusing on certain themes every year. We highly encourage you to read the page below, which will help you submit a stronger proposal. '''New to 2026:''' We will be featuring a limited number of skill-share workshops!

At the GG we look for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps:

* Advance shared goals
* Improves skills
* Creates collective knowledge
* Supports the mapping out and mobilization of networks around current and emerging challenges
* Projects and individuals share their work with others.

== '''2026 Themes''' ==
<big>In addition to the themes listed below, this year we will be creating special topical hubs via multi-day programming, or “Villages”, focused on organizational security, spyware, circumvention technology, and secure communications and documentation, as well as LGBTQAI+ and regional hubs.</big>

=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities
* Organizational security in low-resource environments
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists
* Challenges and updates in security education and training
* Whistleblowing protection
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field

=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===
* Current research and frontline insights
* Threat and/or trend discovery
* New and emerging spyware developments
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship
* Challenges and updates in security education and training

=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies

=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes

=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation
== '''The Formats''' ==

=== Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting ===
Booths are hosted in the permanent kiosks found in the GG’s unique venue, reminiscent of a renaissance fair. They serve as the cornerstone of the event, offering flexible spaces for participants to share, create and connect, while dynamically engaging directly with participants to forge trust-based relationships and discover powerful collaborations.

Booth shifts last two hours. We highly recommend you decorate your booth in a fun and creative way and bring your computer or devices if you want to showcase virtual materials. Electrical outlets are available in each booth. More information about booth sizing and amenities is available [[Global Gathering Booths|'''here''']]. You can see a sample of booth pictures [[Global Gathering#pics|here:]]

'''There are many ways you can use Booths, including:'''
* '''Showcase your project or organization''' and connect with attendees through conversation, materials, and Q&A.
* '''Run a tool demo''', allowing participants to try out your project firsthand.
* '''Host a game or activity''', especially one with an educational or awareness-raising goal.
* '''Host a community space inside your booth,''' creating a hub for individuals from a particular network to collaborate, share, and network.
* '''Offer a service,''' such as digital security support or UX consultations.
* '''Curate an exhibit''' that creatively showcases your work at the intersection of digital and human rights.
* '''Share research or published work''' with participants and answer their questions.
* '''Host a mini-workshop''' that allows attendees to engage with your team and learn something new.

=== Circles: Collaborative Discussions Rooted in Action ===
Circles are 45-minute collaborative discussions facilitated by you. Rooted in action, they can take the form of strategic discussions, action-planning around common challenges, or knowledge exchange around a specific area. They should reflect collective interest, not just individual ideas.

We prioritize Circles that address urgent needs, reflect GG themes, will be of interest to the largest percentage of participants, and have multiple collaborators and/or stakeholders involved.

'''Note:''' Circles are not the right space for one-way presentations or demos; they should be collaborative discussions that engage participants. If you would like to demo or showcase a project, organization, or research, consider hosting a booth.

'''Pro-Tip:''' Prior to the event, we will provide a virtual community space on our Mattermost for networking. This is a great place to find co-faciliators for your proposal OR invite folks to your Circle, if it is accepted.

=== Skill-Share Workshops ===
Skill-share Workshops improve capacity by leveling up participants’ skills or deepening their knowledge. Workshops can last from 45 minutes to 90 minutes and can be directed to novices or seasoned experts. Workshops should be focused on skill-building in a particular area and should not centered around one specific tool or project. This year we will be scheduling workshops both in the mornings, before the start of the event, and during the event itself.

'''Note:''' The Global Gathering venue is low-tech and workshops must be delivered without the use of projectors or screens, however large notepads will be provided.

=== Meetups ===
'''Meetups''' bring together folks who have a shared interest, demographic, or work area to network and build trust in a more relaxed environment. While Circles are about discussing issues, Meetups are about connecting humans and learning about each other.

We are currently only accepting proposals for meetups that are focused on specific digital rights themes or profiles that will attract a large number of participants OR off-site meetups that are more complex to plan and require TCU support. You will have ample opportunity while physically in Portugal to propose smaller, off-site meetups. Directions will be provided in the month prior to the event. We have very limited space for meetups in the venue, and may recommend a nearby location.

'''Examples:'''

* '''Work-Themed Meetups:''' Spyware Researchers, System Administrators Getting Off Big Tech, Security Specialists in Journalism
* '''Large-Scale Events or Activities Open to All Participants:''' 5K walk or run on boardwalk, picnic at a nearby beach, after-hours fundraiser at a nearby restaurant, game night at a local cafe, surfing get together, regional dinner.

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-19T07:09:02Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>

==== '''<big>Programming Proposals for the 2026 GG Are Open!!</big>''' ====
Only individuals who have applied and been approved to join the GG can submit proposals. If you have not applied for the GG, you can do so here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==
The Global Gathering’s programming is unique, using specific formats and focusing on certain themes every year. We highly encourage you to read the page below, which will help you submit a stronger proposal. '''New to 2026:''' We will be featuring a limited number of skill-share workshops!

At the GG we look for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps:

* Advance shared goals
* Improves skills
* Creates collective knowledge
* Supports the mapping out and mobilization of networks around current and emerging challenges
* Projects and individuals share their work with others.

== '''2026 Themes''' ==
<big>In addition to the themes listed below, this year we will be creating special topical hubs via multi-day programming, or “Villages”, focused on organizational security, spyware, circumvention technology, and secure communications and documentation, as well as LGBTQAI+ and regional hubs.</big>

=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities
* Organizational security in low-resource environments
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists
* Challenges and updates in security education and training
* Whistleblowing protection
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field

=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===
* Current research and frontline insights
* Threat and/or trend discovery
* New and emerging spyware developments
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship
* Challenges and updates in security education and training

=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies

=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes

=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation
== '''The Formats''' ==

=== Booths: Flexible Spaces for Sharing, Creating and Connecting ===
Booths are hosted in the permanent kiosks found in the GG’s unique venue, reminiscent of a renaissance fair. They serve as the cornerstone of the event, offering flexible spaces for participants to share, create and connect, while dynamically engaging directly with participants to forge trust-based relationships and discover powerful collaborations.

Booth shifts last two hours. We highly recommend you decorate your booth in a fun and creative way and bring your computer or devices if you want to showcase virtual materials. Electrical outlets are available in each booth. More information about booth sizing and amenities is available [[Global Gathering Booths|'''here''']]. You can see a sample of booth pictures [[Global Gathering#pics|here:]]
'''There are many ways you can use Booths, including:'''
* '''Showcase your project or organization''' and connect with attendees through conversation, materials, and Q&A.
* '''Run a tool demo''', allowing participants to try out your project firsthand.
* '''Host a game or activity''', especially one with an educational or awareness-raising goal.
* '''Host a community space inside your booth,''' creating a hub for individuals from a particular network to collaborate, share, and network.
* '''Offer a service,''' such as digital security support or UX consultations.
* '''Curate an exhibit''' that creatively showcases your work at the intersection of digital and human rights.
* '''Share research or published work''' with participants and answer their questions.
* '''Host a mini-workshop''' that allows attendees to engage with your team and learn something new.

=== Circles: Collaborative Discussions Rooted in Action ===
Circles are 45-minute collaborative discussions facilitated by you. Rooted in action, they can take the form of strategic discussions, action-planning around common challenges, or knowledge exchange around a specific area. They should reflect collective interest, not just individual ideas.

We prioritize Circles that address urgent needs, reflect GG themes, will be of interest to the largest percentage of participants, and have multiple collaborators and/or stakeholders involved.

'''Note:''' Circles are not the right space for one-way presentations or demos; they should be collaborative discussions that engage participants. If you would like to demo or showcase a project, organization, or research, consider hosting a booth.

'''Pro-Tip:''' Prior to the event, we will provide a virtual community space on our Mattermost for networking. This is a great place to find co-faciliators for your proposal OR invite folks to your Circle, if it is accepted.

=== Skill-Share Workshops ===
Skill-share Workshops improve capacity by leveling up participants’ skills or deepening their knowledge. Workshops can last from 45 minutes to 90 minutes and can be directed to novices or seasoned experts. Workshops should be focused on skill-building in a particular area and should not centered around one specific tool or project. This year we will be scheduling workshops both in the mornings, before the start of the event, and during the event itself.

'''Note:''' The Global Gathering venue is low-tech and workshops must be delivered without the use of projectors or screens, however large notepads will be provided.

=== Meetups ===
'''Meetups''' bring together folks who have a shared interest, demographic, or work area to network and build trust in a more relaxed environment. While Circles are about discussing issues, Meetups are about connecting humans and learning about each other.

We are currently only accepting proposals for meetups that are focused on specific digital rights themes or profiles that will attract a large number of participants OR off-site meetups that are more complex to plan and require TCU support. You will have ample opportunity while physically in Portugal to propose smaller, off-site meetups. Directions will be provided in the month prior to the event. We have very limited space for meetups in the venue, and may recommend a nearby location.

'''Examples:'''

* '''Work-Themed Meetups:''' Spyware Researchers, System Administrators Getting Off Big Tech, Security Specialists in Journalism
* '''Large-Scale Events or Activities Open to All Participants:''' 5K walk or run on boardwalk, picnic at a nearby beach, after-hours fundraiser at a nearby restaurant, game night at a local cafe, surfing get together, regional dinner.

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-18T09:55:09Z

Erin:

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-18T09:53:44Z

Erin: /* The Format */

Hotels and Transportation

2026-03-17T10:34:55Z

Erin: /* 🏡 Other Rental Options */

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>
__TOC__

[[File:Hoteltrain.png|left|frameless|136x136px]]
Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train.

It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafes, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
<br>
<br>
<br>
== '''Hotels''' ==
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|412x412px]]
Below are hotel options within walking or short train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.

👉 Prices are approximate and may vary at the time of booking.

👉 Please confirm bed configuration when reserving — “double room” does not always mean two beds.

👉 Portugal has an excellent transportation system and relatively affordable car services. We encourage you to consider lodging in neighboring towns for more budget-friendly options.

👉 Check out our [[Navigating Estoril|interactive map of Estoril]] to get a lay of the land. <div style="clear:both;"></div>
=== <big>🏨 Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts</big> ===
'''To access a 10% discount on your booking, use GG2026 at check out.''' <div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Inglaterra</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €145–150<br>
☎ +351 214 684 461<br>
✉ Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt</nowiki>
</div>
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Riviera Hotel Carcavelos</strong><br>
📍 30-minute train ride from GG venue<br>
💶 €100–130<br>
☎ +351 214 586 600<br>
✉ comercial@rivierahotel.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.rivierahotel.pt/</nowiki>
</div>

=== <big>🏛️ Other Hotels in Estoril</big> ===

==== <big>💶 €100–150 per night</big> ====

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><strong>Hotel Alvorada</strong><br>
📍 350 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €130–150<br>
☎ +351 214 649 860<br>
✉ reservas@hotelalvorada.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelalvorada.com</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Lido</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €140–150<br>
☎ +351 214 679 420<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html</nowiki>
</div>

</div>

==== <big>💶 €150–200 per night</big> ====

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Vila Galé Estoril</strong><br>
📍 450 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €165–180<br>
☎ +351 214 648 400<br>
✉ estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Clube do Lago Hotel</strong><br>
📍 18-minute walk from GG venue<br>
💶 €150–190<br>
☎ +351 214 666 000<br>
✉ reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Amazonia Estoril Hotel</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €150–180<br>
☎ +351 213 199 150<br>
✉ reservas@amazoniahoteis.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/</nowiki>
</div>

</div>

=== <big>🏘️ Hotels & Hostels near Estoril (Cascais)</big> ===

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais</strong><br>
🚌 25-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 Dorm: €30–40<br>
💶 Private: €100–130<br>
☎ +351 916 880 056<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.ljmonade.com/</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Cascais City & Beach Hotel</strong><br>
🚌 20-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 €190–200<br>
☎ +351 211 164 330<br>
✉ reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 0 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Sui7es Guest House – Cascais</strong><br>
🚌 15-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 €175–185<br>
☎ +351 215 801 187<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://sui7es.pt</nowiki>
</div>
</div>

=== <big>🏡 Other Rental Options</big> ===

<div style="border:3px solid #6ED7D9;; border-radius:8px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril–Cascais area:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Vrbo</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.vrbo.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Hostelworld</strong> – <nowiki>https://hostelworld.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Airbnb*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.airbnb.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Booking.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.booking.com</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Hotels.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.hotels.com/</nowiki>
<br>
<br>
<nowiki>*</nowiki> These platforms are listed in boycott databases and referenced in a U.N. Special Rapporteur report regarding business activity in illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
</small></li>
</ul></div>

<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== '''Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area''' ==

=== 🚃 Metro Area Train Systems ===
Portugal has two train systems:

* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto.

=== 🚖 Taxis and Ride Sharing Services ===
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are:

* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/

=== '''🚲''' Bike Rentals ===
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:

* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]
== '''Getting to Estoril''' '''⭐''' ==

==== ✈️🚆 From the Airport Via Metro & Train ====
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less

# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).
# Take the train towards Cascais
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.

==== ✈️ 🚖 From the Airport Via Taxi ====
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes

There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points:

* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two.
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.

==== 🏰🚆 Fom Central Lisbon Via Train ====
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes

1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais.

2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.

Hotels and Transportation

2026-03-17T10:28:30Z

Erin: /* 🏡 Other Rental Options */

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>
__TOC__

[[File:Hoteltrain.png|left|frameless|136x136px]]
Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train.

It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafes, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
<br>
<br>
<br>
== '''Hotels''' ==
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|412x412px]]
Below are hotel options within walking or short train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.

👉 Prices are approximate and may vary at the time of booking.

👉 Please confirm bed configuration when reserving — “double room” does not always mean two beds.

👉 Portugal has an excellent transportation system and relatively affordable car services. We encourage you to consider lodging in neighboring towns for more budget-friendly options.

👉 Check out our [[Navigating Estoril|interactive map of Estoril]] to get a lay of the land. <div style="clear:both;"></div>
=== <big>🏨 Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts</big> ===
'''To access a 10% discount on your booking, use GG2026 at check out.''' <div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Inglaterra</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €145–150<br>
☎ +351 214 684 461<br>
✉ Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt</nowiki>
</div>
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Riviera Hotel Carcavelos</strong><br>
📍 30-minute train ride from GG venue<br>
💶 €100–130<br>
☎ +351 214 586 600<br>
✉ comercial@rivierahotel.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.rivierahotel.pt/</nowiki>
</div>

=== <big>🏛️ Other Hotels in Estoril</big> ===

==== <big>💶 €100–150 per night</big> ====

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><strong>Hotel Alvorada</strong><br>
📍 350 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €130–150<br>
☎ +351 214 649 860<br>
✉ reservas@hotelalvorada.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelalvorada.com</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Lido</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €140–150<br>
☎ +351 214 679 420<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html</nowiki>
</div>

</div>

==== <big>💶 €150–200 per night</big> ====

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Vila Galé Estoril</strong><br>
📍 450 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €165–180<br>
☎ +351 214 648 400<br>
✉ estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Clube do Lago Hotel</strong><br>
📍 18-minute walk from GG venue<br>
💶 €150–190<br>
☎ +351 214 666 000<br>
✉ reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Amazonia Estoril Hotel</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €150–180<br>
☎ +351 213 199 150<br>
✉ reservas@amazoniahoteis.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/</nowiki>
</div>

</div>

=== <big>🏘️ Hotels & Hostels near Estoril (Cascais)</big> ===

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais</strong><br>
🚌 25-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 Dorm: €30–40<br>
💶 Private: €100–130<br>
☎ +351 916 880 056<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.ljmonade.com/</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Cascais City & Beach Hotel</strong><br>
🚌 20-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 €190–200<br>
☎ +351 211 164 330<br>
✉ reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 0 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Sui7es Guest House – Cascais</strong><br>
🚌 15-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 €175–185<br>
☎ +351 215 801 187<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://sui7es.pt</nowiki>
</div>
</div>

=== <big>🏡 Other Rental Options</big> ===

<div style="border:3px solid #6ED7D9;; border-radius:8px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril–Cascais area:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Vrbo</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.vrbo.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Hostelworld</strong> – <nowiki>https://hostelworld.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Airbnb*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.airbnb.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Booking.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.booking.com</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Hotels.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.hotels.com/</nowiki>
*/These platforms are listed in boycott databases and referenced in a U.N. Special Rapporteur report regarding business activity in illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
</small></li>
</ul></div>

<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== '''Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area''' ==

=== 🚃 Metro Area Train Systems ===
Portugal has two train systems:

* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto.

=== 🚖 Taxis and Ride Sharing Services ===
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are:

* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/

=== '''🚲''' Bike Rentals ===
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:

* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]
== '''Getting to Estoril''' '''⭐''' ==

==== ✈️🚆 From the Airport Via Metro & Train ====
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less

# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).
# Take the train towards Cascais
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.

==== ✈️ 🚖 From the Airport Via Taxi ====
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes

There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points:

* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two.
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.

==== 🏰🚆 Fom Central Lisbon Via Train ====
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes

1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais.

2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.

Hotels and Transportation

2026-03-17T10:28:15Z

Erin:

[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;">
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li>
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li>
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li>
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li>
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li>
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li>
</ul>
</div>
__TOC__

[[File:Hoteltrain.png|left|frameless|136x136px]]
Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train.

It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafes, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
<br>
<br>
<br>
== '''Hotels''' ==
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|412x412px]]
Below are hotel options within walking or short train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.

👉 Prices are approximate and may vary at the time of booking.

👉 Please confirm bed configuration when reserving — “double room” does not always mean two beds.

👉 Portugal has an excellent transportation system and relatively affordable car services. We encourage you to consider lodging in neighboring towns for more budget-friendly options.

👉 Check out our [[Navigating Estoril|interactive map of Estoril]] to get a lay of the land. <div style="clear:both;"></div>
=== <big>🏨 Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts</big> ===
'''To access a 10% discount on your booking, use GG2026 at check out.''' <div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Inglaterra</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €145–150<br>
☎ +351 214 684 461<br>
✉ Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt</nowiki>
</div>
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Riviera Hotel Carcavelos</strong><br>
📍 30-minute train ride from GG venue<br>
💶 €100–130<br>
☎ +351 214 586 600<br>
✉ comercial@rivierahotel.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.rivierahotel.pt/</nowiki>
</div>

=== <big>🏛️ Other Hotels in Estoril</big> ===

==== <big>💶 €100–150 per night</big> ====

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><strong>Hotel Alvorada</strong><br>
📍 350 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €130–150<br>
☎ +351 214 649 860<br>
✉ reservas@hotelalvorada.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelalvorada.com</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Lido</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €140–150<br>
☎ +351 214 679 420<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html</nowiki>
</div>

</div>

==== <big>💶 €150–200 per night</big> ====

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Hotel Vila Galé Estoril</strong><br>
📍 450 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €165–180<br>
☎ +351 214 648 400<br>
✉ estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Clube do Lago Hotel</strong><br>
📍 18-minute walk from GG venue<br>
💶 €150–190<br>
☎ +351 214 666 000<br>
✉ reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Amazonia Estoril Hotel</strong><br>
📍 600 m from GG venue<br>
💶 €150–180<br>
☎ +351 213 199 150<br>
✉ reservas@amazoniahoteis.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/</nowiki>
</div>

</div>

=== <big>🏘️ Hotels & Hostels near Estoril (Cascais)</big> ===

<div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais</strong><br>
🚌 25-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 Dorm: €30–40<br>
💶 Private: €100–130<br>
☎ +351 916 880 056<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.ljmonade.com/</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Cascais City & Beach Hotel</strong><br>
🚌 20-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 €190–200<br>
☎ +351 211 164 330<br>
✉ reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com</nowiki>
</div>

<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 0 14px 0;
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>Sui7es Guest House – Cascais</strong><br>
🚌 15-minute trip by public transport<br>
💶 €175–185<br>
☎ +351 215 801 187<br>
🌐 <nowiki>https://sui7es.pt</nowiki>
</div>
</div>

=== <big>🏡 Other Rental Options</big> ===

<div style="border:3px solid #6ED7D9;; border-radius:8px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);">
<strong>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril–Cascais area:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Vrbo</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.vrbo.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Hostelworld</strong> – <nowiki>https://hostelworld.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Airbnb*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.airbnb.com/</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Booking.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.booking.com</nowiki></li>
<li><strong>Hotels.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.hotels.com/</nowiki>
* These platforms are listed in boycott databases and referenced in a U.N. Special Rapporteur report regarding business activity in illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.</small></li>
</ul></div>

<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== '''Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area''' ==

=== 🚃 Metro Area Train Systems ===
Portugal has two train systems:

* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto.

=== 🚖 Taxis and Ride Sharing Services ===
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are:

* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/

=== '''🚲''' Bike Rentals ===
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:

* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]
== '''Getting to Estoril''' '''⭐''' ==

==== ✈️🚆 From the Airport Via Metro & Train ====
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less

# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).
# Take the train towards Cascais
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.

==== ✈️ 🚖 From the Airport Via Taxi ====
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes

There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points:

* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two.
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.

==== 🏰🚆 Fom Central Lisbon Via Train ====
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes

1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais.

2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.

Global Gathering 2026

2026-03-16T16:52:05Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big><br>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center>.<div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

'''<big>Open call for programming starts March 19:</big>''' The link to the open call for programming will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants on March 19.

For this reason, make sure to apply for a ticket as soon so we can verify and approve your attendance.

Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions
</div>
</div>

<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.

.

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-03-16T16:51:48Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big>
<br>
<big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center>.<div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

'''<big>Open call for programming starts March 19:</big>''' The link to the open call for programming will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants on March 19.

For this reason, make sure to apply for a ticket as soon so we can verify and approve your attendance.

Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions
</div>
</div>

<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.

.

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

Global Gathering 2026

2026-03-16T16:51:23Z

Erin:

__NOTOC__

[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]

==== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ====
'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|upright=0.8]]
The Global Gathering brings together groups from around the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels.

The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.

.

<center><big><span style="color:#c71585;">'''Applications are now open!'''</span></big><big>'''https://gathering.digitalrights.community/'''</big>

</center>.<div style="display:flex; justify-content:flex-start; gap:5%; flex-wrap:nowrap;">

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);text-align:left;">

'''<big>🌱 2026 Program Themes</big>'''

Check out this year's themes, formats and what we are looking for, by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming|2026 Programming page.]]

'''If you are in need of a Schengen visa,''' refer to important support information below. We highly recommend you schedule your embassy / consulate appointment ASAP to avoid delays, even if you are not 100% sure you can attend.
</div>

<div style="flex:0 0 40%; min-width:0; box sizing:border-box; border:2px solid #DADADA; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; background:#FFFFFF; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08); text-align:left;">
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''

'''<big>Open call for programming starts March 19:</big>''' The link to the open call for programming will be sent to all verified and approved GG participants on March 19.

For this reason, make sure to apply for a ticket as soon so we can verify and approve your attendance.

Email us at gather@digitalrights.community if you have questions
</div>
</div>

<div style="clear:both;"></div>

== '''How to Apply''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* '''Apply here:''' https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br>

* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's '''[[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]],''' designed to ensure the security and safety of the event
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 0; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">

'''📣 Not 100% sure you can attend? We highly recommend''' you apply as soon as possible, as all applications must go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. You can always cancel your attendance at a later date.This year we will <u>NOT</u> accept any applications <u>AFTER</u> the official deadline.
</div>
|}
</div>

== '''Programming''' ==
[[File:Programming2026.png|alt=Global Gathering Programming 2026|left|frameless|158x158px]]
Check out the complete list of topics we will be covering in this year's programming by visiting [[2026 Global Gathering Programming]]

We will be doing a call out for proposals soon! However, note that you must first have an approved ticket to submit a proposal.

.

== '''Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events''' ==
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg| <big>🌱</big> Did you know that participants represent over 120+ countries, with 51% of attendees living in the Global Majority, and 54% identifying as women or gender non-conforming. |thumb|397x397px]]Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

<big>'''Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026'''</big>

The GG is an event is <u>designed as a tool</u> to help organizations and networks achieve their specific goals. In 2026, we are expanding opportunities for GG Partners via:

🌱 '''Villages:''' Community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities.<br><br>🌱 '''Satellite Events:''' Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings. <br><br>To learn more reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch;">
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:15%;" | <br>[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:

*Obtaining a Schengen visa <u>and</u> applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.<br>
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
* The GG's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''], which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG. <br>

<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
⭐ Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if needed.
</div>

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;" |

=== '''[[Equity Fund]]''' ===
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']], which supports travel, lodging, security, and visa assistance for individuals from at-risk communities operating in low-resourced environments who would not otherwise be able to attend the GG.

⭐ This year, you must <u>first apply and be approved</u> for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |

=== '''[[Hotels and Transportation]]''' ===
We have compiled a list of hotels and transportation options, including cost estimates. You'll also find step-by-step directions for traveling to Estoril from multiple locations, including the airport.

⭐ We encourage you to explore lodging options outside of Estoril - Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, and many nearby towns are just a short trip from the venue.

|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|135x135px|center]]
| style="padding:10px;"|

=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map with recommended restaurants, services and landmarks.<br><br>
* [[Navigating Portugal|'''Navigating Portugal''']] includes an overview of the country, useful terms and practical tips for getting around—such as how to order specific types of coffee—recommended day trips from Estoril, and an overview of the digital rights ecosystem.
|}
</div>

== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|-
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}

== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:

* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-03-16T16:42:04Z

Erin:

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-03-16T16:40:28Z

Erin:

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-04T13:07:55Z

Erin: /* 2026 Themes */

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-03T16:59:23Z

Erin: /* The Format */

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-03-03T15:57:14Z

Erin:

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-03-02T12:45:45Z

Erin: /* Notes */

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' February 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''Communicating Securely With Your Network: Secure Communications Apps, Protocols, and Best Tips''</big>

<big>During our February Digital Rights Social, we will be discussing secure communications apps and best tips to communicate securely with your network. While the conversation will remain organic, and also include space to connect with other participants, we will be inviting experts to join the conversation as well!</big>
</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==
'''What the community is reading right now...'''

* The Hakawati - Rabih Alameddine
* Project Hail Mary - Andy Weir
* The Expanse (series) - James S. A. Corey
* The Other Wind - Ursula K. Le Guin
* Cielos de Córdoba - F. Falco
* Seeing (Portuguese: Ensaio sobre a Lucidez, lit. Essay on Lucidity) - José Saramago
* Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin - Andrew S. Weiss
* White Nights - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
* El invencible verano de Liliana - Cristina Rivera Garza
* Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë
* Moderation - Elaine Castillo
* Sunburn - Chloe Michelle Howarth

'''Community News and Project Updates'''

* [https://cyd.social/ Cyd] is trying to (finally) make a dev release to delete all your wall data from Facebook! Cyd currently allows you to back up, delete and migrate your data on X.
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] is in the process of being launched!
* The early beta of [https://phnx.im/ Phoenix R&D]'s Air ([https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7410371597062258690-r5_Y LinkedIn], [https://mastodon.social/@phoenix_r_d/115787008878946009 Mastodon]) was launched a couple of weeks ago!
** The beta is invite-only, so if you are interested in trying it out, message @cityroler directly on Mattermost for an invitation code.
* The [https://escuelacomun.yanapak.org/ Escuela Común] 2026 cohort has started!
* [https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz6ed1549yvo Tech firms will have 48 hours to remove abusive images under new law]

'''Community-recommended projects and reading to explore...'''

* [https://blackskyweb.xyz/ Blacksky Algorithms]
* [https://aihumanstory.substack.com/p/when-the-internet-goes-dark When the Internet Goes Dark]: ''Uganda killed the internet. 400,000 people had already downloaded Bitchat''
* [https://riseagainstbig.tech/ Rise Against Big Tech]
* [https://www.resistandunsubscribe.com/ Resist and Unsubscribe]
* [https://fedi.the-counterforce.org/ Fediverse Punk Month]

'''Because a tool in itself is not a solution to securing comms...Which practices have you found most valuable to improving security and safety within your network communications?'''

* This is a good question, I think one of the main things is '''really leaning into message safety and also being sure to not talk about specific things on platforms or certain messaging apps that can be traced'''. Another thing is '''setting times on how long a message will show''' specifically in spaces like signal. That's what we do in some of the groups that I'm in and specifically with our work at Blacksky.
* One small practice I have found really helpful in one larger Signal group I am in that I haven't seen in other larger groups I've been in... The group is invite-only and the admins not only '''first introduce any new recommendations''' '''to the group''' within the chat, but they '''require that more than one person within the existing group approve of the new add'''.
* In my case, in my trainings and other engagements, I try to '''find the balance between security and usability''', because in many communities people don't necessarily are up to adopting more complicated tools even when that means more security. So that's the tricky part. '''We usually need to find weird balances ensuring the security of this at risk communities but in a way that makes sense to them'''.
* For me, the most important practice (very low tech, I know) is '''starting by understanding how target communities communicate among themselves already, so you can build strategies and improve processes from there, instead of imposing new tools and processes'''. Once this is overcome, it's way easier to create more awareness, conduct trainings, introduce new concepts, and in some cases new tools, but the start would be to meeting people where they are and going from there.
* '''Skill-sharing and internal mentoring for new members''' help to include our less technical members and make the whole network stronger.
* '''Create an environment where no question is stupid''', and is OK to say 'I dont know how to do that'.
* TBH lately I've had to '''warn and then block persons who are careless with critiques over chats''' like WhatsApp. Reverting to email (not a great replacement) or in-person (limited).
* Even in "secure comm" channels, I try to get people to consider:
** '''Is it necessary to share this much information?'''
** '''Does the information I share help those who would choose to carry out nefarious actions?'''
* In my case, I also have to '''balance usability and security'''. Lately, I have been '''focusing on WhatsApp’s security settings''', especially in the context of searching mothers of missing people. Many of them are '''older adults''' who travel to '''areas with very limited mobile data coverage''' (and dangerous places). '''In these situations, WhatsApp’s lower cost represent a significant advantage'''. And trying in small steps moving to signal for part of the communications.
** It's a challenge when connectivity is limited. Also, WhatsApp is the network of choice - everyone's there and adoption of another app where few family and local community members "reside" is resisted by older folks, less digitally literate people, and people who have cheap phones with limited storage space.
* '''There is a nuance here where we want people to feel the freedom to share what they need to have the community they need... and yet, still be proactively thinking about what they share and how it can be misused.'''
* The whole '''<nowiki/>'no, I don't have social media' is getting harder to do'''. Lately is getting hard with some collectives using their Instagram handle as their point of contact. They don't even have a gmail address anymore. They just say their Instagram handle. I have tried to explain that you cannot even look at their page without an Instagram account and they think I am an idiot. I think it is important to make collectives understand that Instagram is an addictive app and is simply not OK to force people to join, is like inviting people to try heroine.
** In my country (at least) it is almost impossible not to use Whatsapp: you need it even for citizenship matters and procedures... also, because if you do not have instagram other people will not notice you... '''it is almost impossible not to need [social media] at some point.'''
* Just a simple thing to mention, but I find it makes a difference, is a little game in which '''we try apps for funny things, or sexy things among some queer communities'''. '''People have fun, keep the emotional good feeling related to those apps/tools''' and that makes it more likely to give them a try in new contexts, after the training<br />

'''Do you have a favorite educational resource that you share with your networks about communicating more securely?'''
* [https://freedom.press/digisec/blog/locking-down-signal/ Locking down Signal] - Freedom of the Press Foundation
* [https://ssd.eff.org/module/communicating-others Communicating With Others] - Surveillance Self-Defense from the Electronic Frontier Foundation
** Easy, short, and introduces a-bit-more-complex subjects. Full of links if people want to know more.
* [https://tor-https.eff.org/ How HTTPS and Tor Work Together to Protect Your Anonymity and Privacy] - Surveillance Self-Defense from the Electronic Frontier Foundation
* [https://www.theverge.com/tech/872493/signal-community-organizing-guide-group-chat A community organizer’s guide to Signal group chats] - The Verge
* <nowiki>https://securemessagingapps.com</nowiki> - Secure Messaging App Comparison Site
* [https://quiz.shira.app/ Shira Quiz] from [https://wearehorizontal.org/index Horizontal], developers of [https://shira.app/ Shira App]
** An educational and very practical resource to avoid phishing and communicate securely.
* [https://micahflee.com/using-signal-groups-for-activism/ Using Signal groups for activism] - Micah Lee

'''What are some of the biggest security challenges or concerns you have while communicating within your networks? Are there any lingering questions about secure comms that you would like to share?'''

* There are so many different applications, groups, chats, servers, etc. It's very hard to keep up with and might create a sense of having too much information to consume every hour of your day. Hopefully there are ways that we can moderate and better control this influx of information so it's not like a community equivalent to social media.
* We need to get away from everything WhatsApp. People really believe WhatsApp "encryption" is safe and secure to speak about GBV and state violence. It's not true. The digital divide between Global South and Global North is not just delayed access to resources, devices, internet services and digital use literacy, but a time lag in understanding that surveillance and data collection are everywhere... and we don't just have to accept it, we can move to alternatives.
* Big tech's increased capitulation to surveillance and fascism, lack of interoperability between platforms, and inertia are some big challenges. Migrating from discord, Slack, Whatsapp, etc. should be made easier. The question remains "to what" of course! So answering that, and making migration dead-easy, is critical.
** There also needs to be healthy skepticism of the big tech alternatives. A tool may be more privacy-preserving in its early stages, but what guarantees are in place to ensure it won't grow and evolve into a data-mining, surveillance tool in future?

2026 Global Gathering Programming

2026-02-26T16:17:55Z

Erin: /* Villages */

March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-02-24T13:36:14Z

Erin:

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-02-20T15:21:14Z

Erin:

{| style="width:100%;"
| style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">

<big>'''When:''' February 19, 2026</big><br><br>

<big>'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big><br><br>

<big>'''Host''': Erin</big>

<hr />

<big>''Communicating Securely With Your Network: Secure Communications Apps, Protocols, and Best Tips''</big>

<big>During our February Digital Rights Social, we will be discussing secure communications apps and best tips to communicate securely with your network. While the conversation will remain organic, and also include space to connect with other participants, we will be inviting experts to join the conversation as well!</big>
</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|thumb|<big>This is part of the monthly Digital Rights Socials. [[Community Updates|Check out the next one and previous ones here:]]</big>]]
|}

== Notes ==
'''What the community is reading right now...'''

* The Hakawati - Rabih Alameddine
* Project Hail Mary - Andy Weir
* The Expanse (series) - James S. A. Corey
* The Other Wind - Ursula K. Le Guin
* Cielos de Córdoba - F. Falco
* Seeing (Portuguese: Ensaio sobre a Lucidez, lit. Essay on Lucidity) - José Saramago
* Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin - Andrew S. Weiss
* White Nights - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
* El invencible verano de Liliana - Cristina Rivera Garza
* Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë
* Moderation - Elaine Castillo
* Sunburn - Chloe Michelle Howarth

'''Community News and Project Updates'''

* [https://cyd.social/ Cyd] is trying to (finally) make a dev release to delete all your wall data from Facebook! Cyd currently allows you to back up, delete and migrate your data on X.
* [https://services.globalvoices.org Global Voices Services] is in the process of being launched!
* The early beta of [https://phnx.im/ Phoenix R&D]'s Air ([https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7410371597062258690-r5_Y LinkedIn], [https://mastodon.social/@phoenix_r_d/115787008878946009 Mastodon]) was launched a couple of weeks ago!
** The beta is invite-only, so if you are interested in trying it out, message @cityroler directly on Mattermost for an invitation code.
* The [https://escuelacomun.yanapak.org/ Escuela Común] 2026 cohort has started!
* [https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz6ed1549yvo Tech firms will have 48 hours to remove abusive images under new law]

'''Community-recommended projects and reading to explore...'''

* [https://blackskyweb.xyz/ Blacksky Algorithms]
* [https://aihumanstory.substack.com/p/when-the-internet-goes-dark When the Internet Goes Dark]: ''Uganda killed the internet. 400,000 people had already downloaded Bitchat''
* [https://riseagainstbig.tech/ Rise Against Big Tech]
* [https://www.resistandunsubscribe.com/ Resist and Unsubscribe]
* [https://fedi.the-counterforce.org/ Fediverse Punk Month]

'''Because a tool in itself is not a solution to securing comms...Which practices have you found most valuable to improving security and safety within your network communications?'''

* This is a good question, I think one of the main things is '''really leaning into message safety and also being sure to not talk about specific things on platforms or certain messaging apps that can be traced'''. Another thing is '''setting times on how long a message will show''' specifically in spaces like signal. That's what we do in some of the groups that I'm in and specifically with our work at Blacksky.
* One small practice I have found really helpful in one larger Signal group I am in that I haven't seen in other larger groups I've been in... The group is invite-only and the admins not only '''first introduce any new recommendations''' '''to the group''' within the chat, but they '''require that more than one person within the existing group approve of the new add'''.
* In my case, in my trainings and other engagements, I try to '''find the balance between security and usability''', because in many communities people don't necessarily are up to adopting more complicated tools even when that means more security. So that's the tricky part. '''We usually need to find weird balances ensuring the security of this at risk communities but in a way that makes sense to them'''.
* For me, the most important practice (very low tech, I know) is '''starting by understanding how target communities communicate among themselves already, so you can build strategies and improve processes from there, instead of imposing new tools and processes'''. Once this is overcome, it's way easier to create more awareness, conduct trainings, introduce new concepts, and in some cases new tools, but the start would be to meeting people where they are and going from there.
* '''Skill-sharing and internal mentoring for new members''' help to include our less technical members and make the whole network stronger.
* '''Create an environment where no question is stupid''', and is OK to say 'I dont know how to do that'.
* TBH lately I've had to '''warn and then block persons who are careless with critiques over chats''' like WhatsApp. Reverting to email (not a great replacement) or in-person (limited).
* Even in "secure comm" channels, I try to get people to consider:
** '''Is it necessary to share this much information?'''
** '''Does the information I share help those who would choose to carry out nefarious actions?'''
* In my case, I also have to '''balance usability and security'''. Lately, I have been '''focusing on WhatsApp’s security settings''', especially in the context of searching mothers of missing people. Many of them are '''older adults''' who travel to '''areas with very limited mobile data coverage''' (and dangerous places). '''In these situations, WhatsApp’s lower cost represent a significant advantage'''. And trying in small steps moving to signal for part of the communications.
** It's a challenge when connectivity is limited. Also, WhatsApp is the network of choice - everyone's there and adoption of another app where few family and local community members "reside" is resisted by older folks, less digitally literate people, and people who have cheap phones with limited storage space.
* '''There is a nuance here where we want people to feel the freedom to share what they need to have the community they need... and yet, still be proactively thinking about what they share and how it can be misused.'''
* The whole '''<nowiki/>'no, I don't have social media' is getting harder to do'''. Lately is getting hard with some collectives using their Instagram handle as their point of contact. They don't even have a gmail address anymore. They just say their Instagram handle. I have tried to explain that you cannot even look at their page without an Instagram account and they think I am an idiot. I think it is important to make collectives understand that Instagram is an addictive app and is simply not OK to force people to join, is like inviting people to try heroine.
** In my country (at least) it is almost impossible not to use Whatsapp: you need it even for citizenship matters and procedures... also, because if you do not have instagram other people will not notice you... '''it is almost impossible not to need [social media] at some point.'''
* Just a simple thing to mention, but I find it makes a difference, is a little game in which '''we try apps for funny things, or sexy things among some queer communities'''. '''People have fun, keep the emotional good feeling related to those apps/tools''' and that makes it more likely to give them a try in new contexts, after the training<br />

'''Do you have a favorite educational resource that you share with your networks about communicating more securely?'''
* [https://freedom.press/digisec/blog/locking-down-signal/ Locking down Signal] - Freedom of the Press Foundation
* [https://ssd.eff.org/module/communicating-others Communicating With Others] - Surveillance Self-Defense from the Electronic Frontier Foundation
** Easy, short, and introduces a-bit-more-complex subjects. Full of links if people want to know more.
* [https://tor-https.eff.org/ How HTTPS and Tor Work Together to Protect Your Anonymity and Privacy] - Surveillance Self-Defense from the Electronic Frontier Foundation
* [https://www.theverge.com/tech/872493/signal-community-organizing-guide-group-chat A community organizer’s guide to Signal group chats] - The Verge
* <nowiki>https://securemessagingapps.com</nowiki> - Secure Messaging App Comparison Site
* [https://quiz.shira.app/ Shira Quiz] from [https://wearehorizontal.org/index Horizontal], developers of [https://shira.app/ Shira App]
** An educational and very practical resource to avoid phishing and communicate securely.

'''What are some of the biggest security challenges or concerns you have while communicating within your networks? Are there any lingering questions about secure comms that you would like to share?'''

* There are so many different applications, groups, chats, servers, etc. It's very hard to keep up with and might create a sense of having too much information to consume every hour of your day. Hopefully there are ways that we can moderate and better control this influx of information so it's not like a community equivalent to social media.
* We need to get away from everything WhatsApp. People really believe WhatsApp "encryption" is safe and secure to speak about GBV and state violence. It's not true. The digital divide between Global South and Global North is not just delayed access to resources, devices, internet services and digital use literacy, but a time lag in understanding that surveillance and data collection are everywhere... and we don't just have to accept it, we can move to alternatives.
* Big tech's increased capitulation to surveillance and fascism, lack of interoperability between platforms, and inertia are some big challenges. Migrating from discord, Slack, Whatsapp, etc. should be made easier. The question remains "to what" of course! So answering that, and making migration dead-easy, is critical.
** There also needs to be healthy skepticism of the big tech alternatives. A tool may be more privacy-preserving in its early stages, but what guarantees are in place to ensure it won't grow and evolve into a data-mining, surveillance tool in future?

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-02-20T15:00:51Z

Erin:

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-02-20T14:55:20Z

Erin:

Community Updates

2026-02-20T14:26:34Z

Erin: /* 📌 Upcoming Socials */

__NOTOC__

== Digital Rights Monthly Socials ==
{| style="width:100%;"
|style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:20px;"|
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; background:#e0feff; border:5px solid #02cad3; border-radius:20px;">
<big>'''When:''' Every Third Thursday of the Month<br><br>
'''Time:''' 14 UTC /
[https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meetingdetails.html?year=2026&month=1&day=14&hour=14&min=0&sec=0&p1=37&p2=176&p3=179&p4=155&p5=241&p6=108 Check my time zone here]<br><br>
'''Where:''' [[TCU Mattermost| TCU Mattermost | Secure an account here]]</big>

<big>
Connect with the global Digital Rights community every month on TCU's virtual community space. Learn about new projects, share your own work and research, and discuss updates and announcements from the digital rights space! Leading experts and projects will also be featured on a regular basis.
</big>

''To attend you must be registered on [[TCU Mattermost|TCU's Mattermost]]. Want to be a featured guest? Reach out to team@digitalrights.community!''
</div>
| style="vertical-align:top; width:320px;"| [[File:Digital Rights Social hero.png|alt=Digital Rights monthly socials|frameless]]
|}

== '''📌 Upcoming Socials''' ==

<big>[[March 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

'''<big>The First Step in Building Your Autonomous Tech Infrastructure</big>'''

<big>[[April 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

'''<big>Spyware Protection and Transnational Repression</big>'''

<big>[[May 21, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[June 18, 2026, Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[July 16, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[October 15, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[November 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[December 17, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

.

== '''📁 Past Socials''' ==

<big>[[January 22, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

<big>[[February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]</big>

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=='''Notes from Past Glitter Meetups'''==

The following are community updates from a weekly meetup we use to host, that served as a type of weekly town hall of the digital rights community. This was put on paused because of historic funding cuts the digital rights field began to face in 2025. However, we encourage you to look at the notes.
----
'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2025]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2024]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2023]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2022]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2021]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes 2020]]'''

'''[[Glitter Meetup Notes Before March 26, 2020]]'''

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-02-11T08:08:52Z

Erin:

February 19, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-02-11T08:08:00Z

Erin:

Calendar of Events

2026-02-03T12:07:01Z

Erin: /* Digital Rights Calendar of Events 2026 */

__NOTOC__
== Digital Rights Calendar of Events 2026 ==
Did you know you can submit your event - whether in-person or virtual - to our newsletter and web entities for promotion? [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Use this form!]<br>

<div style=" float: right; width: 25%; margin: 0 0 1em 1em; padding: 12px; background: #E9F7F3; border: 2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius: 6px; ">
<big>'''📣''' '''[[Global Gathering 2026| Join us for Global Gathering 2026!]]'''</big>

<big>📅 September 4, 5 and 6, 2026</big>

<big>🌍 Portugal</big>

[[File:Gathering_Defenders.png|link=File:Gathering_Defenders.png|frameless]]<br /></div>
=== '''JANUARY''' ===
----

==== '''Strategy Design Festival''' ====

* January 20, 2026
* London
* https://www.fabriders.net/strategy-design-festival/

==== '''Digital Rights Social''' ====
* January 22, 2026
* Virtual on TCU's Mattermost
* [[January 22, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]

==== '''Archive and Resist Conclave''' ====

* January 26-27, 2026
* Dhaka
* https://archivecon.activaterights.org

==== '''FOSDEM''' ====

* January 31-February 1, 2026
* Brussels
* https://fosdem.org/2026/

----

=== '''FEBRUARY''' ===
----

==== '''Gaza’s Digital Economy Under Siege''' ====

* February 5, 2026
* https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KhfSSNeuReyCPTNGQ508zw#/registration<br>
----

=== '''MARCH''' ===
----

==== '''Palestine Digital Activism Forum (PDAF) 2026''' ====
* March 30-31, 2026
* https://pdaf.net/about-theme<br>
----
==== '''APRIL''' ====
----
==== '''Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum''' ====
* April 14-16, 2026
* Abidjan, Ivory Coast
* https://sessionize.com/digital-rights-and-inclusion-forum26/

==== '''International Journalism Festival (IJF)''' ====

* April 15-18, 2026
* Perugia, Italy
* https://www.journalismfestival.com/<br>
----
=== '''MAY''' ===
----

==== '''RightCon 2026''' ====
* May 5-8, 2026
* Lusaka, Zambia
* https://www.rightscon.org/<br>
----
==== '''JUNE''' ====
----

==== '''Digital Rights Asia-Pacific Assembly (DRAPAC)''' ====

* June 8-10, 2026
* Manila, Philippines
* https://engagemedia.org/2025/drapac26-manila/

==== '''Global Media Forum''' ====

* June 23-24, 2026
* Bonn Germany
* https://corporate.dw.com/en/gmf-2026-your-ideas-deserve-the-spotlight/a-75222151

==== '''All Things in Moderation 2026: Call for Contributions''' ====

* June 25-26, 2026
* Online and on-demand
* https://www.allthingsinmoderation.org/call-for-contributions<br />
----
=== '''JULY''' ===
----

==== '''DWeb Camp''' ====

* July 8-12, 2026

* Outside of Berlin, Germany

* https://dwebcamp.org/

==== '''Free and Open Communications on the Internet (FOCI)''' ====

* July 20, 2026

* Hybrid, co-located with PETS in Calgary, Canada

* https://foci.community/<br>
----
=== '''SEPTEMBER''' ===
----

==== '''Global Gathering''' ====
* September 4-6, 2026
* Portugal
* [https://www.digitalrights.community www.digitalrights.community]

==== '''Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica)''' ====

* Dates not yet posted, typically late Sept<br>
----
=== '''OCTOBER''' ===
----

==== '''Digital Commons: Infrastructures, Design, and the Ethics of Autonomy''' ====

* October 8-10, 2026
* Athens, Greece
* [https://www.digicommons.org www.digicommons.org]

Calendar of Events

2026-02-03T12:05:06Z

Erin: /* JULY */

__NOTOC__
== Digital Rights Calendar of Events 2026 ==
Did you know you can submit your event - whether in-person or virtual - to our newsletter and web entities for promotion? [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Use this form!]<br>

<div style=" float: right; width: 25%; margin: 0 0 1em 1em; padding: 12px; background: #E9F7F3; border: 2px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius: 6px; ">
<big>'''📣''' '''[[Global Gathering 2026| Join us for Global Gathering 2026!]]'''</big>

<big>📅 September 4, 5 and 6, 2026</big>

<big>🌍 Portugal</big>

[[File:Gathering_Defenders.png|link=File:Gathering_Defenders.png|frameless]]<br /></div>
=== '''JANUARY''' ===
----

==== '''Strategy Design Festival''' ====

* January 20, 2026
* London
* https://www.fabriders.net/strategy-design-festival/

==== '''Digital Rights Social''' ====
* January 22, 2026
* Virtual on TCU's Mattermost
* [[January 22, 2026 Digital Rights Social]]

==== '''Archive and Resist Conclave''' ====

* January 26-27
* Dhaka
* https://archivecon.activaterights.org

==== '''FOSDEM''' ====

* January 31-February 1
* Brussels
* https://fosdem.org/2026/

----

=== '''FEBRUARY''' ===
----

==== '''Gaza’s Digital Economy Under Siege''' ====

* February 5, 2026
* https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KhfSSNeuReyCPTNGQ508zw#/registration<br>
----

=== '''MARCH''' ===
----

==== '''Palestine Digital Activism Forum (PDAF) 2026''' ====
* March 30 to 31, 2026
* https://pdaf.net/about-theme<br>
----
==== '''APRIL''' ====
----
==== '''Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum''' ====
* April 14-16
* Abidjan, Ivory Coast
* https://sessionize.com/digital-rights-and-inclusion-forum26/

==== '''International Journalism Festival (IJF)''' ====

* April 15 to 18, 2026
* Perugia, Italy
* https://www.journalismfestival.com/<br>
----
=== '''MAY''' ===
----

==== '''RightCon 2026''' ====
* May 5-8
* Lusaka, Zambia
* https://www.rightscon.org/<br>
----
==== '''JUNE''' ====
----

==== '''Digital Rights Asia-Pacific Assembly (DRAPAC)''' ====

* June 8 to 10
* Manila, Philippines
* https://engagemedia.org/2025/drapac26-manila/

==== '''Global Media Forum''' ====

* June 23 and 24, 2026
* Bonn Germany
* https://corporate.dw.com/en/gmf-2026-your-ideas-deserve-the-spotlight/a-75222151

==== '''All Things in Moderation 2026: Call for Contributions''' ====

* June 25 to 26
* Online and on-demand
* https://www.allthingsinmoderation.org/call-for-contributions<br />
----
=== '''JULY''' ===
----

==== '''DWeb Camp''' ====

* July 8-12, 2026

* Outside of Berlin, Germany

* https://dwebcamp.org/

==== '''Free and Open Communications on the Internet (FOCI)''' ====

* July 20, 2026

* Hybrid, co-located with PETS in Calgary, Canada

* https://foci.community/<br>
----
=== '''SEPTEMBER''' ===
----

==== '''Global Gathering''' ====
* September 4 to 6, 2026
* Portugal
* [https://www.digitalrights.community www.digitalrights.community]

==== '''Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica)''' ====

* Dates not yet posted, typically late Sept<br>
----
=== '''OCTOBER''' ===
----

==== '''Digital Commons: Infrastructures, Design, and the Ethics of Autonomy''' ====

* October 8 to 10
* Athens, Greece
* [https://www.digicommons.org www.digicommons.org]

January 22, 2026 Digital Rights Social

2026-01-26T15:04:45Z

Erin: