Global Gathering 2026

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.

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

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🌱 2026 Program Themes

● Surveillance and Censorship

● Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty

● Emerging and Urgent Tech Challenges: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Shutdowns, Etc.

● Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation

● Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health

For a more detailed breakdown of these themes, please check out our 2026 Programming page.

📌 Updates

Open call for programming starts March 19: The link to the open call for programming will be sent to all approved GG attendees on March 19. For this reason, make sure to apply for a ticket as soon as possibe.

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

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Apply here: https://gathering.digitalrights.community/ Please familiarize yourself with the GG's three step application and ticketing process, designed to ensure the security and safety of the event 📣 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.

Programming

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.

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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	Code of Conduct
	Security Policy
	COVID Policy

Global Gathering Past Editions

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

• Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back
• Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back