SMIDGE General Assembly Convenes in Copenhagen

The SMIDGE Project partners convened for their General Assembly on May 14-15 at the University of Copenhagen, bringing together representatives from the UK, Denmark, Austria, Cyprus, Italy, Belgium and Kosovo. The assembly was marked by comprehensive presentations on progress, detailed discussions on ongoing tasks and strategic planning for future steps.

During the two-day meeting, each partner presented updates on their respective work packages, highlighting the progress made and the challenges faced. These updates covered a wide range of topics, from data collection and analysis to the development of counter-narrative strategies, providing a clear picture of the project's current status and laid the groundwork for future efforts. Additionally, these updates were presented to the Advisory Board and Ethics Board members.

One of the key themes of the assembly was the emphasis on ethics and Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) principles. Partners engaged in deep discussions on how to integrate these principles into every aspect of the project. This focus ensures that the SMIDGE Project not only advances scientifically but also adheres to the highest standards of integrity and foresight.

As the project concludes its first year, significant insights into the characteristics, patterns and causal factors of online extremist narratives are beginning to emerge. These initial findings are critical as the project transitions into the next phase: the creation of counter-narratives and Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) materials. Partners deliberated on the best approaches for developing these educational resources, aiming to maximize their impact and effectiveness.

Another important aspect of the assembly was the discussion on expanding dissemination outreach. Partners brainstormed strategies to increase the visibility of their findings and discussed upcoming conferences where they can present their research.

The General Assembly concluded with a sense of accomplishment and a clear vision for the future. The next General Assembly is scheduled to take place in Kosovo next year, where partners will reconvene to review progress and plan further steps.