One of democracy’s main principles is the equality of citizens before state and law. How can we make sure that the law and the justice system can adequately protect citizens from abuse of their privacy and freedoms by corporations and governments?

Mass surveillance is often depicted as important for fighting international terrorism and organised crime. Is encryption the ultimate answer to mass surveillance and what is the price to pay?

Citizens Juries allow political authorities to include citizen’s input, which is the result of deliberation by an informed micro public, in their decision-making processes. Can a Citizen Jury serve as a safeguard to ensure democratic oversight over the definition of extreme threats and the reasons which justify exceptional powers, or can matters of national security only be entrusted to security experts and legislators?

Civil society and the public space are increasingly under pressure. Many organisations that promote democracy, the rule of law, and human rights face harassment and censorship, and are sometimes branded as ‘terrorists’ in order to justify repressive legislation which is affecting their work. What counter measures can be taken to stop the worrying trend of a shrinking space for civil society organisations?

How can we make sure that privacy, data protection, and freedom of choice are respected in online social networks and by internet companies and increase user’s awareness of the terms of service they agree to?

What is the Prosecutor’s role in acknowledging and investigating mass surveillance and how useful is surveillance really for the prosecutor’s work of detecting criminals and terrorists?