Who Owns Tomorrow’s Tech? The Power and Policy of Open Source Software and Hardware

Event Overview

We rely on open code for our most critical digital infrastructure, from Linux, which powers so many of our devices, to the web itself. Yet much of the modern digital landscape is dominated by proprietary giants. In our inaugural talk at INFLECTION, Nicholas Gates, senior policy advisor at OpenForum Europe, and Javier Serrano from CERN give valuable insight on how open-source software and hardware provide a viable path to break these dependencies. Join us to explore what "shared sovereignty" means, what it actually looks like in practice, how open tech functions commercially, and whether it can genuinely secure Europe’s technological future. Note: From 17:00–18:00, there will be an unrecorded, 15-person discussion with the speakers over snacks (phones must be left outside). You can apply for a seat during the regular registration process (Link above). Think this might be interesting, but aren't sure you fit the target audience? We are happy to welcome everyone genuinely interested in the topic—or who thinks they might be. If that sounds like you, we hope to see you there, regardless of your background or education! (Our event location is wheelchair accessible with a Euro Key.)