Data Justice 2026 The Datafied State

The Data Justice 2026 conference, titled "The Datafied State," is a premier international gathering hosted by the Data Justice Lab at Cardiff University. This event serves as a critical platform for scholars, practitioners, and community groups to examine the evolving relationship between the state and data-driven technologies. As we move further into 2026, the integration of AI and platform-based delivery of public services has become a central pillar of governance. This conference delves into the societal implications of these shifts, focusing on social justice, transparency, and the rights of the individual in an increasingly digitized world.

The two-day program is meticulously structured to cover the complexities of "platform capitalism" and the current hype surrounding Artificial Intelligence. Key sessions will explore how high-stakes uses of data—ranging from national security to everyday public service delivery—affect the marginalized and the general citizenry. Participants will engage in rigorous debate over the "Datafied State," analyzing the role of corporations in government functions and emerging popular responses to digital surveillance. By bringing together international perspectives, the event aims to foster a global dialogue on democratizing data and ensuring that technology serves the public good rather than just state and corporate interests.

Attendees can expect a variety of formats, including keynote speeches from world-renowned digital rights experts, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops. Unlike previous hybrid iterations, this 2026 edition emphasizes in-person networking at the prestigious School of Journalism, Media, and Culture (JOMEC). This physical gathering is designed to strengthen the network of activists and academics working toward a more equitable digital future. Whether you are investigating the legislative loopholes of big data or implementing local community data-safeguards, this conference provides the foundational knowledge and connections necessary to navigate the complex ethics of the modern data landscape.