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== Welcome to the 2026 Global Gathering! ==
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|412x412px|left|thumb|
'''When:''' September 4, 5 and 6, 2026
<br><center><big>'''Hosted and designed by'''<br><big>'''[https://www.digitalrights.community Team CommUNITY]'''<br></center></big><br>]]


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


The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout 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.  
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big>
[[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.  
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. <br>


'''Examples of issues participants work on''': holistic digital security and protection of civil society; counteracting online censorship and surveillance; community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance; and climate and tech, among others.
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== '''Global Gathering Application and Ticketing Platform''' ==
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* The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December.


* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], which we follow to ensure the security and safety of the event.  
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== Global Gathering Program ==
'''<big>🌱 Participants work on issues such as:</big>'''<br><br>
This year, we are going back to our roots, embracing a self-organized model to ensure conversations are driven by participants’ most pressing needs and challenges. Programming activities include:
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br>
[[Index.php?title=File:Black 2025 GG Icon Circles.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_2025_GG_Icon_Circles.png|left|frameless|154x154px]]
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br>
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.
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==== '''Meetups & Circles''' ====
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While Team CommUNITY will be coordinating a select number of topical and regional networking meetups, participants will be provided with tools to coordinate self-organized “Circles” or collaborative discussions.
'''<big>📌 Updates</big>'''<br><br>
<big>● Applications are now open!! https://gathering.digitalrights.community/</big> 


'''''Applications for Circles will open in August, stay tuned!'''''
● 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>
[[Index.php?title=File:Black 2025 GG Icon Booths.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_2025_GG_Icon_Booths.png|left|frameless|154x154px]]
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==== '''Booths''' ====
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Booths will be hosted in the numerous permanent structures available at the venue. Booths are great for showcasing work, demoing a tool, running a skillshare, or having one-to-one conversations with participants.


.
== '''How to Apply''' ==
----
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[[Index.php?title=File:Black 2025 GG Icon Villages.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_2025_GG_Icon_Villages.png|left|frameless|155x155px]]
{| style="width:99%;"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| style="width:15%;" |[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|135x135px|Gt26tickteicon]] .
|
* Applications are now open!!! https://gathering.digitalrights.community/<br><br>


==== '''Villages and Private Events''' ====
* 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
Partners will be provided with space to host their own public and/or private events via more robust Village areas. If you are interested in this option, please reach out to us as soon as possible by emailing [email protected]. Additionally, we will be working with trusted community nodes to coordinate regional villages, where participants can host more locally-focused discussions.
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== Planning Your Trip & Navigating Estoril ==
'''📣 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.
[[Index.php?title=File:Black Blue 2025 GG Icon Travel Security.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_Blue_2025_GG_Icon_Travel_Security.png|left|frameless|88x88px|Travel and Safety Advice Guide]]
</div>
[https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''<big>Review the 2025 Travel and Safety Advice</big>''']
|}
</div>
 
== '''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>''' ==
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{| style="width:99%;"
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=== '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' ===
Find detailed information regarding:


We have compiled a great document with travel, safety and security advice to ensure you are safe and secure before, during, and after your participation in GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more!
*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>
[[Index.php?title=File:Black Blue 2025 GG Icon Plan your trip.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_Blue_2025_GG_Icon_Plan_your_trip.png|left|frameless|88x88px]]
* Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants<br>
'''[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Planning_Your_Trip <big>Planning Your Trip</big>]'''
* 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>


Learn about recommended hotels in the area, how you can get to Estoril from the airport, as well as hospitals, pharmacies and other healthcare information.
<div style="max-width:100%; padding:15px; margin:10px 20px; background:#FFF1F1; border:2px solid #E57373; border-radius:20px;">
[[Index.php?title=File:Black 2025 GG Icon Navigating Estoril.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_2025_GG_Icon_Navigating_Estoril.png|left|frameless|88x88px]]
⭐ 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;" |


'''[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Navigating_Estoril <big>Navigating Estoril</big>]'''
=== '''[[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. 


We have compiled a list of day trips you can take from Estoril, a list of ATMs and Banks near the venue, general information about public transportation, and some Portuguese language tips, including how to order coffee!
⭐ 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.⭐


== Visa and Equity Fund Support ==
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
[[Index.php?title=File:2025 Black Visa and Equity Fund Support.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:2025_Black_Visa_and_Equity_Fund_Support.png|right|frameless|143x143px]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; width:180px;" | <br>[[File:Hoteltrain.png|center|frameless|135x135px]]
<big>'''Visa Support'''</big>
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; padding:10px;"" |


The '''[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Visa_and_Equity_Fund_Support Visa Support]''' page has all the information you need regarding:
=== '''[[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. 


* Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal
⭐ 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.
* Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization
* Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process


<big>'''Equity Fund Support'''</big>
|- 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>


Due to the ongoing impact of the foreign aid freeze, Team CommUNITY will not have an open application process for travel support. This is to ensure that critical visa, security, and well-being support remain available for 2025 event attendees. We remain committed to helping all participants explore alternative funding options.
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==
Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.


== Community, Security & Health Policies ==
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 1px; width: Auto; background:#E9F7F3; border:0px solid #6ED7D9; "
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2025.'''
| rowspan="3" |[[File:Policies.png|center|frameless|131x131px|policies]]
[[Index.php?title=File:Black 2025 GG Icon Health.png|link=https://wiki.digitalrights.community/File:Black_2025_GG_Icon_Health.png|left|frameless|167x167px]]
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']
|}
|-
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']
|}
|-
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']
|}
|}
== Partners and Satellite Events ==
Consider becoming a partner for the 2025 Global Gathering! Benefits range from free tickets, to space to host your own private or public event, or booths to showcase your organization! Reach out to us to learn what services and support we can provide. Email [mailto:[email protected] [email protected]].


== Global Gathering Past Editions ==
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==

Latest revision as of 21:04, 18 December 2025



Hosted and designed by
Team CommUNITY

🍃 Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃

When: September 4, 5, and 6, 2026

Where: Estoril, Portugal

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.

🌱 Participants work on issues such as:

● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.

📌 Updates

● Applications are now open!! https://gathering.digitalrights.community/

● 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.

How to Apply

global gathering ticketing platform
Gt26tickteicon
.

📣 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 NOT accept any applications AFTER the official deadline.

Partners, Villages, & Satellite Events

🌱 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.

Consider becoming a partner to one of the largest global gatherings of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech.

Expanded Opportunities for Partners in 2026

The GG is an event is designed as a tool 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.

🌱 Satellite Events: Private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during, or after the GG, including workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and other convenings.

To learn more reach out to us at [email protected] —we’re happy to help you brainstorm on how to best achieve your goals.

Planning your Trip


Visa and Security Support

Find detailed information regarding:

  • Obtaining a Schengen visa and applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization, which will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries starting in 2026.
  • Customized, ongoing visa and security support available to participants
  • The GG's Travel and Safety Guide, which provides practical security guidance to ensure your protection before, during and after your participation in the GG.

⭐ 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.


Equity Fund

We will be reopening the 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 first apply and be approved for the GG. Once approved, you will receive a separate application for the Equity Fund.⭐


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.


Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides

  • 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.

  • 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.

Community, Security & Health Policies

Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026.

policies
policies
Code of Conduct
Security Policy
COVID Policy

Global Gathering Past Editions

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