2025-SOTN

Lightning Talks and Salons are new to SOTN this year. While we have traditionally hosted long-form and structured sessions featuring keynote speakers, fireside chats, and panel discussions, we are excited to introduce these two latest formats that provide unique opportunities to share information and ideas. 

Lightning Talks & Salon Discussions

Lightning Talks are brief presentations (5-10 minutes), which may be accompanied by slides. Lightning talks are ideal for discussing emerging or niche ideas. Successful lightning talks usually consist of 1-3 key ideas and/or takeaways and feature slides with charts and images rather than text. Salons are 30 minute discussions facilitated by one or two experts. 

Session proposers can submit a general category proposal or choose from the below program categories.

General Category: Submit a proposal on any topic related to Internet policy you like. 

Free Expression & Social Media: Social spaces are central to the Internet. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the digital age, we invite you to contribute your perspectives on shaping the future of these digital realms. 

Creator Economy: Delve into the nuances of the creator economy, focusing on how digital artists, influencers, and content creators are rewarded for their online contributions. Share your insights on shaping a more equitable and sustainable Internet landscape.

Artificial Intelligence: AI is ushering in a new epoch of Internet policy. How should policymakers balance the opportunities and challenges presented by powerful AI tools? How will widespread use of AI tools present challenges to existing governance structures and existing law? 

Internet Geopolitics: Multistakeholderism defined the first era of Internet policymaking. How will governments, multinational corporations, and citizens resolve differences and achieve shared goals over the next twenty years. 

Equitable Broadband: With programs like BEAD and the ACP the US faces a historic opportunity to ensure that all Americans can participate in the digital economy. How can we achieve this critical goal either here or in the world? 

Cybersecurity: How can policymakers ensure that systems, networks, and data are secure? What approaches best actualize cybersecurity in the next 20 years?

Privacy: The privacy of personal information has long been a goal of policymakers in Washington. States and enforcement agencies have forged ahead with actions. What is the best way to safeguard the privacy of citizen data? 

Salons

Salons are small gatherings where participants engage in in-depth discussions on specific topics. These discussions are often led by a facilitator who can help guide the conversation. These sessions will take place towards the end of our conference and last around 30 to 40 minutes. Salons are ideal for exploring complex topics that benefit from the sharing of diverse viewpoints. Salon participants will receive a brief “Conversation Catalyst” ahead of the discussion. Your proposal should include the topic of the salon, the scope of the discussion, who the facilitator(s) will be, and an outline of the “Conversation Catalyst.”