This panel delved into the economic and social implications of the expansion of digital platforms, exploring how they influenced the flow of capital, information, and power in modern society. We analyzed the ways in which these platforms orchestrated interactions between users and content, determining who gained visibility and who remained marginal. We also discussed how digital platforms used data and algorithms to create new business models that capitalized on user attention and behavior, often at the expense of diversity and fair competition. Experts evaluated the impact of these practices on the socio-economic structure and discussed possible regulatory responses to mitigate the effects of the increasing centralization of digital power.

Panelist:

Antonio Palmieri - President Fondazione Pensiero Solido, Gianluca Sgueo - Professor of Digital Democracy & Public Spaces SciencesPo Paris, Martina Carone - Professor in Media Analysis University of Padua / Youtrend, Davide Casaleggio - Author of the book “Gli algoritmi del potere. Come l’IA riscriverà la politica e la società”.

The panel examined how the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) promoted technological innovation in Italy. Financial experts, public institutions, and technology sector leaders discussed resource allocation, synergies between public and private investments, and necessary reforms. The crucial role of the EIB in financing innovative projects was explored, highlighting the opportunities and challenges to create an ecosystem conducive to technological innovation and the economic well-being of the country. The objective was to provide a clear vision of the opportunities and challenges related to the financing of technological innovation, demonstrating how effective cooperation between public policies and European financial instruments could stimulate sustainable and inclusive progress.

Panelist:

On. Ylenja Lucaselli - Deputy of the Commission-Budget, Treasury and Planning Chamber of Deputies, Fabrizio Morgera - Senior Investment Officer European Investment Bank

In 2024, the European Union introduced a law to regulate artificial intelligence, marking a decisive step towards protecting citizens' rights in a rapidly developing technological environment. The panel analyzed the new frontiers of European public security strategies and the impacts that the new legislation would have on international competition and existing geopolitical dynamics.

Panelist:

Luca De Biase - Research and Media Director Re-Imagine Europa, Lucilla Sioli - Director for "Artificial Intelligence and Digital Industry" Directorate-General CONNECT, European Commission, Gianluca Misuraca - Founder & Vice President on Technology Diplomacy Inspiring Futures.

RAI Public Utility offered a highly relevant contribution to the GovTech Summit, presenting the activities of Rai Meteo and the latest technological developments applied to meteorology. Through a discussion with UNDP, RAI illustrated international commitments and research to combat climate change and monitor meteorological phenomena in order to mitigate environmental risks. RAI's interventions were a unique opportunity to explore innovative solutions in the field of meteorology and understand how technology could support environmental sustainability and resilience.

CTE.COBO, the House of Emerging Technologies of the Municipality of Bologna, was the protagonist at the GovTech Summit with a series of activities aimed at promoting innovation and sustainable growth in strategic sectors such as Industry 4.0, the cultural and creative sector, and innovative urban services. Press conferences, panels, and exhibition spaces offered participants the opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities of technological development, creating valuable connections for the Bologna ecosystem and all interested stakeholders.

The GovTech Summit, in collaboration with Legacoop, presented an unmissable panel dedicated to the crucial role of fundamental innovation hubs in facilitating the digital transition of industry, public administration, and SMEs. The panel explored the successful experiences of pioneering projects such as BIREX++, Artes 5.0, eDIH4Marche, and PICS2, offering businesses a unique perspective on growth and development opportunities in the ever-changing digital landscape. A particular focus was reserved for the developments of the Digital Ace Innovation Hub, with an in-depth analysis of its evaluation and guidance activities for digital transformation.

The Pensiero Solido Foundation presented three panels at the GovTech Summit, addressing critical issues related to technological innovation and its implications on modern society. These panels offered in-depth analysis of digital platforms, with a particular focus on the risks of bias and distortion caused by the use of algorithms and artificial intelligence. One of the key themes was the use of AI in political communication, in a context where digital platforms have a growing impact on electoral dynamics. During the panels, experts and scholars discussed how artificial intelligence can influence public perception, alter information, and potentially manipulate political campaigns.

The Italian Art Directors Club participated in the GovTech Summit with a dedicated space focused on analyzing the impact of digital innovation and artificial intelligence on the creative landscape. During the event, the importance of adaptation and innovation was emphasized to maintain high competitiveness among professionals in the advertising communication sector. ADCI provided detailed insights into how AI and new technologies are transforming the creation, distribution, and consumption of advertising content, highlighting the skills necessary to succeed in an evolving environment.

The Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) participated in the GovTech Summit to share its vision on how technological innovation is transforming the world of sport. CONI highlighted how technology is revolutionizing sports disciplines, impacting not only athlete performances but also sports facilities and venues. A significant part of the discussion focused on the growing role of e-sports, exploring how virtual competitions are creating new job opportunities, influencing gaming tactics, and promoting technological innovation within the sports sector.