Quality connectivity and secure information infrastructure are key enablers for prosperous smart cities that effectively respond to the needs of their inhabitants, businesses, or visitors. They are possible thanks to the open, free, global, safe, and secure nature of the Internet that constitutes the backbone of modern digital societies. 

However, it becomes increasingly obvious that digital transition is not an apolitical process and the choices made at the local communities or national governments level may have long-term implications on how our societies function. The increasing use of AI systems for the delivery of public services – energy, transportation, or security – further stresses the importance of ensuring that digital transition occurs on the basis of the human-centred approach that places individuals and societies at the centre. 

This event will provide an overview of key challenges, dilemmas, and good practices that local communities and authorities face when translating the vision of Open Internet and human-centred digital transformation.

This event is part of the Global Initiative on the Future of the Internet, a project funded by the European Union under the service contract no. NDICI/2023/447-807