What is ECHO?
Through five Academies in five European cities, young artists and creatives learn more about the topic and build impactful campaigns. Our goal is to bring complex political issues to life, making democracy more accessible for everyone.
| ECHO is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. |
I. Digitalization and AI
(DE/MO, Amsterdam, NL)
Digitization and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are transforming our world, offering incredible opportunities—but also bringing significant challenges, especially for younger generations
who will shape and be shaped by these technologies.
While these innovations open new doors, they also raise serious concerns. Surveillance capitalism is one such threat, where our personal data is tracked, sold, and used to manipulate our choices, often without our knowledge. Racial biases in AI, which can reinforce stereotypes and inequalities, affect everything from job opportunities to policing. Additionally, AI already has and could have even worse effects on our democracies.
As we dive into this digital future, in Amsterdam we are going to ask ourselves: who controls the data that defines our online lives? How do we prevent AI from perpetuating social biases? And, most importantly, can we ensure that technology enhances our freedom rather than eroding it?
who will shape and be shaped by these technologies.
While these innovations open new doors, they also raise serious concerns. Surveillance capitalism is one such threat, where our personal data is tracked, sold, and used to manipulate our choices, often without our knowledge. Racial biases in AI, which can reinforce stereotypes and inequalities, affect everything from job opportunities to policing. Additionally, AI already has and could have even worse effects on our democracies.
As we dive into this digital future, in Amsterdam we are going to ask ourselves: who controls the data that defines our online lives? How do we prevent AI from perpetuating social biases? And, most importantly, can we ensure that technology enhances our freedom rather than eroding it?
2. Climate Change
(Espronceda, Barcelona, ES)
Urban heat islands — where densely built areas trap heat — are becoming more severe, posing serious health risks to residents in cities around the world. While these issues highlight the urgency of the climate crisis, they also underscore the importance of proactive environmental policies that reduce air pollution, promote green spaces, and support biodiversity.
In Barcelona we will therefore deal with the following questions: How can we scale local urban solutions to address global environmental crises? What role should cities play in combating climate change?
Hosted by Espronceda.
3. Ecology and Biodiversity
(Public Art Lab,
Berlin, DE)
for maintaining the balance of life on Earth. From deforestation to pollution, these actions
are endangering countless species and undermining the natural systems that support us. Our modern lifestyles often disconnect us from the intricate web of life that sustains us, leading to a growing awareness of the need to restore and protect these vital ecosystems.
These challenges highlight the critical need for deeper engagement with
our environment. They raise important questions about how we interact with and impact the natural world: How can we foster a stronger connection between people and nature? What steps can we take to reverse the decline in biodiversity and restore ecological balance? And how can we ensure that our actions support rather than undermine the health of our planet’s ecosystems?
Hosted by Public Art Lab.
4. Migration
(Bios, Athens, GR)
So how can we continue to support and integrate migrants while dealing with ongoing challenges? What more needs to be done to ensure that migration policies are effective
and fair? And how can we balance the need for security with the commitment to humanitarian values?
Hosted by Bios.
5. Democracy
(Fine Acts, Sofia, BU)
From the United States to Germany, The Netherlands to Bulgaria, trust in institutions is eroding, and democratic values are being tested like never before.
As we grapple with these issues, it's crucial to ask: How can we rebuild trust in institutions that seem increasingly distant or ineffective? What role do ordinary citizens play in holding their leaders accountable and upholding democratic values? And how can we address widespread disillusionment to strengthen democracy?
Hosted by Fine Acts.