The rise of network shutdowns and the proliferation of so-called “splinternets” pose significant challenges to the free flow of information and human interaction online. Millions of people around the world experience digital isolation as a result of environmental disaster, political action or military aggression. Splintercon partners with the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) to bring together a global network of innovators ready to challenge the increasing fragmentation of our digital society. We invite participants from around the world to contribute their knowledge, experience and skill to counter the growing trend of digital isolation, where national boundaries and corporate platforms restrict open communication.
Our thematic focus is on decentralized protocols and technologies, wireless connectivity solutions and innovative approaches to bypassing censorship systems.
The Blockathon will feature a gamified shutdown environment for testing your tools and skills. In support of our growing community, we are launching the Breakout program – a competitive process to develop and mature solutions for the problems posed by network fragmentation. All in all, it will be a full, fulfilling and exciting three days together in Berlin!
The growth and sophistication of wireless communication technologies and the proliferation of decentralized protocols — as well as the continuous efforts of the VPN and censorship circumvention communities — present a diverse portfolio of solutions to reach or break out of isolated networks, as well as to enable private and resilient communications for users inside. Splintercon aims to provide platform for:
- Evaluating existing and future tech solutions for communication with and within sovereign networks;
- Analyzing the practices and impacts of network isolation and shutdowns;
- Investing in practical and user-oriented solutions for connectivity and content distribution across digital barriers.
Participation
Everyone interested in attending the SplinterCon as a guest must register. Due to limited space and ambitions to keep the meeting focused and productive, we will confirm every registration manually, and with all due respect.
