Sensors and Democracy

How do we organize transparent communication regarding sensors in public space?

Sensing systems play a growing role in smart cities. Sensors allow cities to organize public space in a more efficient and liveable way. But sensor technology comes with risks. Next to taking social values, like those in the TADA manifesto, into account when implementing sensors, it is important to organize checks and balances. Sensor systems are often complex and untransparent. This lack of understandability can make it hard for citizens and journalists to check what sensors are used for.

In this session we will investigate what role communication can play in empowering citizens to understand what happens with their data and in the worst case: protect their rights.