Data for Policy, in collaboration with Cambridge University Press, is pleased to present a new session in its ongoing Zoom talk series. This edition brings together leading researchers and practitioners to discuss the transformative potential and critical limitations of using data and emerging technologies to support peacebuilding efforts.
Date: 14 July 2025, Time: 14:00 (UK time)
Location: Online via Zoom (registration required via this link)
Webinar Overview
Peacebuilding has long relied on traditional diplomatic, humanitarian, and development interventions. However, recent years have seen a growing interest in how novel data sources, digital tools, and algorithmic systems can complement or reshape these efforts. Diverse digital innovations from satellite imagery to citizen-generated data and AI-driven tools are increasingly integrated into peace processes to support conflict prevention, foster inclusive dialogue, and promote accountability.
This webinar will offer a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective on these developments. Drawing on contributions from the Data for Peace special collection in the journal Data & Policy, the discussion will address both the opportunities and challenges of using data for peace. It will examine key themes such as:
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How novel and non-traditional data sources can facilitate dialogue and conflict resolution
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Conceptualisation of positive peace data – dynamic, relational models emphasising human connections beyond static definitions
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The importance of data collaboratives that bridge technical innovation with practitioner insight through co-design processes
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Ethical design of data-driven peace technologies with human rights safeguards and democratic oversight
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Strategic investment mechanisms for peace technology development through public-private partnerships
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The need for relational peace frameworks that go beyond simplistic dichotomies like positive vs. negative peace
The session is particularly relevant for policymakers, researchers, and technologists interested in the evolving field of PeaceTech and data-driven peacebuilding. Short presentations by panellists will be followed by a moderated Q&A session led by Prof Innar Liiv (Tallinn University of Technology).
Panellists:
- Stefaan Verhulst – Co-Founder and Chief Research and Development Officer, The GovLab (New York University); Editor-in-Chief, Data & Policy; Director, Data for Policy CIC
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Michele Giovanardi – Digital Peacemaking, CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation
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Evelyne Tauchnitz – University of Lucerne
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Martin Wählisch – Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Government (CAIG), University of Birmingham
Moderator: Innar Liiv – Tallinn University of Technology
Related Materials
Access the open access editorial and peer-reviewed articles from the Data for Peace special collection in Data & Policy (Cambridge University Press): Data for Peace: How Can Novel Data Sources and Technology Enhance Peace?
Join us for this engaging discussion on the intersection of data, technology, and peacebuilding. Secure your spot by registering on this link.
If you were unable to attend the webinar, the full recording is now available on the Data for Policy YouTube Channel. We invite you to watch the session and share any questions in the comments section.