
The digital transformation is one of the most profound societal challenges of the 21st century. Social participation, economic prosperity, and the quality of work increasingly depend on the possibilities offered by new technologies. In this context, cloud computing, cross-border supply chains, as well as the “Internet of Things” and the “sharing economy” are giving rise to new ways of living, working, and communicating together. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated digitalization, enabling new forms of economic and social resilience while also exposing aspects of profound inequality. At the same time, authoritarian regimes are using artificial intelligence, big data, and disinformation campaigns to consolidate their rule at home and undermine democratic institutions and decision-making abroad. Against the backdrop of the interplay of opportunities and challenges posed by digitalization, the Aspen Institute Germany works to address the most pressing questions about new technologies and their impact on digital life in Germany, Europe, and around the world. In doing so, it focuses on five key areas: (1) Digitalization and Democracy, (2) Digitalization and Ethics, (3) Digitalization and European Sovereignty, (4) Digitalization and Transatlantic Relations, and (5) Digitalization and Geopolitics.
Digital Focal Areas
Digitalization changes every part of our society, no matter how small, at all levels and in all disciplines. This enormous impact requires an ongoing debate about the values and principles that should guide our digital society. The Digital Program contributes to this by facilitating an inclusive dialogue on the most pressing issues of digitalization and technology.
Publications

Conference Report – Berlin Study Trip of the Influencer Project
The report presents the contents and findings of the first study tour of the project “Disinformation and the Role of Influencers in Times of Conflict”, in which 15 influencers from Germany and Central and Eastern Europe participated.

Spot On: EU and German Responses to Disinformation in Times of Crisis and War
A “Spot On” policy brief on disinformation and the threat it poses to democracies in light of new technologies.

Hybrid Threats in Times of Conflicts and Wars: Establishing Democratic Resilience in the Digital Age
A “Spot On” policy brief on hybrid warfare and the threats it poses to democracy.