Conference Programme 2025

Welcome to the programme of the 4th International Digital Security Forum (IDSF), to be held from 4. – 6. June 2025 in Vienna, Austria. We are continually working to update and expand our agenda, with the aim of offering you the latest insights into key topics, expert discussions, and groundbreaking innovations in digital security. We warmly invite you to check back regularly for further details, including confirmed speakers and additional program highlights in the coming days.

The programme is composed according to the motto “Balancing Sovereignty and Solidarity in the Digital Age” of this year’s International Digital Security Forum (IDSF) in Vienna. The lead topic focusses on digital transformation which challenges states to maintain their open strategic autonomy and sovereignty while fostering global solidarity in leveraging the benefits and addressing risks and cyber threats. Digital sovereignty emphasizes control over national data and infrastructure, while digital solidarity relies on international cooperation to develop common security standards and share knowledge. #IDSF25 will explore this crucial balance from a variety of technological and thematic perspectives.

Day 1

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

09:00

 – 09:45 

Welcome & Opening Ceremony

Moderator:

Cornelia Ertl Moderatorin, Austria

Participants:

Helmut Leopold Initiator IDSF, Head of Center for Digital Safety & Security at AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Austria
Alexander Janda Secretary General Competence Center Secure Austria (KSÖ)
09:45

 – 10:00 

KEYNOTE 1

Keynote 1

Keynote:

Michal Krelina Associate Senior Researcher, SIPRI
10:00

 – 11:15 

SESSION 1

Beyond Digital – Tech Diplomacy in a Quantum World

Quantum technologies, while still evolving, are poised to disrupt existing security paradigms. The  session will unpack the impact of quantum technologies on broader security dynamics, its ramifications for secure communication and critical infrastructure as well as for the broader peace and security agenda. It will also explore the changes that might be brought about in the military and defence field exploring how these will shift the dynamics of warfare, defence and impact strategic stability considerations. It will also look into the possible impact on economic security and technology souvereignity agenda.

By bringing together experts from diplomacy, policy, industry, and academia, this session will highlight how quantum and other emerging technologies intersect with digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, and global security architectures. It will also address the role of diplomatic engagement in shaping international norms, export controls, and cooperation mechanisms that prevent fragmentation and ensure a balanced and secure technological future.

The session will discuss how techdiplomacy can serve as a bridge to reduce vulnerabilities, and create governance frameworks that align with democratic values and strategic interests.

Chair:

Claudia Reinprecht Head of Department for Telecommunications, Digital and Tech Diplomacy Austrian Ministry for European and International Affairs

Participants:

Michal Krelina Associate Senior Researcher, SIPRI
Ditte Bjerregaard Acting Tech Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark
Ulrich Mans Lead Strategic Partnerships, Quantum Delta, Netherlands
11:30

 – 11:45 

KEYNOTE 2

Keynote 2

Keynote:

11:45

 – 13:00 

SESSION 2

Bridging Continents: Human-Centric Data Governance and Data Sovereignty for Peace and Security

As digital technologies shape the future of peacebuilding and security, we must ask: are the data and tools we rely on truly fit for purpose? This panel will explore the challenges of Western-centric data systems, the importance of data sovereignty, and the role of human rights in ensuring ethical, human-centric data governance. By addressing these issues, we’ll examine how to empower local communities, build trust through transparency, and create digital solutions that would be more fit for purpose, because if PeaceTech and the data sources that support it are not accessible, they are pointless. Join us for an engaging on bridging continents and making data work for peace and security.

Chair:

Nathan Coyle Senior Peace Tech Advisor Austrian Center for Peace, United Kingdom

Participants:

Renata Ávila Pinto CEO of Open Knowledge Foundation, United Kingdom
Markus Kornprobst Professor of International Relations at the Vienna School of International Studies (Diplomatische Akademie), Austria
Farhat Asif Founder & President, Institute of Peace & Diplomatic Studies, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tobias Lang Director, Austrian Centre for Peace, Austria
14:00

 – 14:15 

KEYNOTE 3

Keynote 3

Keynote:

Detlef Eckert Founder Deep Digital Consulting B.V., Author or “40 Years of European Digital Policies“
14:15

 – 15:30 

SESSION 3

The Next Generation of Trusted Data Sharing (Gaia-X)”

Sovereign digital ecosystems (data spaces) are the basis for a competitive economy and self-determined (sovereign) digital economy. Based on the actual market developments there is a risk of loss of value creation, prosperity and sovereignty for individual member states and firms. Sovereign digital ecosystems according to standards are the basis for being able to assert oneself in the competition of global value chains and data is the fuel of digital ecosystems and is the basis for every AI strategy. This session will explore how current data space initiatives such as Gaia-X are driving this transformation, enabling trusted, secure data sharing.

Chair:

Roland Fadrany COO Gaia-X AISBL

Participants:

Detlef Eckert Founder Deep Digital Consulting B.V., Author or “40 Years of European Digital Policies“
Senadin Alisic Strategic Advisor Combitech
16:00

 – 16:15 

KEYNOTE 4

Keynote 4

Keynote:

16:15

 – 17:30 

SESSION 4

Persuasive Technologies: Cognitive Security Risks in the Age of AI, Quantum, and Neurotech

The convergence of neurotechnologies with artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology is reshaping security landscapes, introducing new opportunities and unprecedented risks. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), neuro-enhancement, and cognitive monitoring tools can enhance human performance but also expose societies to cognitive warfare, cyber vulnerabilities, and ethical and human rights dilemmas. The integration of AI-driven neural data analysis, quantum-secured brain-computer communications, and biotech-enabled neuro-enhancement raises critical concerns for digital security, privacy, and governance.

Experts from neuroscience, cybersecurity, international governance and law will assess the security implications of this technological convergence and discuss policy for strategies, international cooperation and governance frameworks in order to prevent harm and mitigate risks while leveraging the positive transformative potential for public health.

The Panel will explore the threat landscape as to how malicious actors could exploit neurotechnologies for manipulation and cyber threats and will look int ethical, legal and governance challenges, inter alia risks to privacy, neural data protection, and regulatory gaps.

Chair:

Claudia Reinprecht Head of Department for Telecommunications, Digital and Tech Diplomacy Austrian Ministry for European and International Affairs

Participants:

17:30

 – 17:45 

FIRESIDE CHAT

Responsible R&D by Balancing Innovation and Regulation

The convergence of neurotechnologies with artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology is reshaping security landscapes, introducing new opportunities and unprecedented risks. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), neuro-enhancement, and cognitive monitoring tools can enhance human performance but also expose societies to cognitive warfare, cyber vulnerabilities, and ethical and human rights dilemmas. The integration of AI-driven neural data analysis, quantum-secured brain-computer communications, and biotech-enabled neuro-enhancement raises critical concerns for digital security, privacy, and governance.

Experts from neuroscience, cybersecurity, law and international governance will assess the security implications of this technological convergence and discuss policy for strategies, international cooperation and governance frameworks in order to prevent harm and  mitigate risks while leveraging the positive transformative potential for public health.

The Panel will explore the threat landscape as to how malicious actors could exploit neurotechnologies for manipulation and cyber threats and will look int ethical, legal and governance challenges, inter alia risks to privacy, neural data protection, and regulatory gaps.

Chair:

Claudia Reinprecht Head of Department for Telecommunications, Digital and Tech Diplomacy Austrian Ministry for European and International Affairs

Participants:

18:00

 – 19:00 

SESSION 5

Responsible R&D by Balancing Innovation and Regulation

The intersection of innovation and regulation in digital security is more critical than ever. As Europe strengthens its cybersecurity framework through new regulations and Acts, the challenge lies in fostering technological advancements while ensuring compliance and resilience. This session brings together experts to examine how Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can bridge the gap between policy and practice, with perspectives from civil society, independent security researchers, academia, and other non-state actors. Discussions will focus on how national and EU funding programs can empower businesses, drive secure digital transformation, and enhance global cybersecurity competitiveness.

Chair:

Participants:

Christof Tschohl ATLAWS Wiki

Day 2

Thursday,  June 5, 2025

09:00

 – 09:30 

Opening Speech

Moderator:

09:45

 – 11:00 

SESSION 6

Digital Security & trans-national infrastructures

As digital transformation accelerates globally, the resilience and security of transnational infrastructure has become critical to maintaining sovereignty and ensuring economic stability. The increasing reliance on interconnected systems exposes nations and industries to new vulnerabilities, making digital security a fundamental pillar of modern infrastructure – especially given the growing need for massive data exchange across industries and Member States. This requires powerful and reliable infrastructure (wired and wireless) and data platforms. What complicates this is that cloud providers have deployed national, regional and global infrastructures, while offering the desired AI services in limited geographical locations. The shift is accompanied by rising security costs, as protecting these complex networks requires robust investments in technology, governance and cross-border collaboration. This session will explore how nations can balance resilience, sovereignty and the economic implications of securing digital infrastructure in an increasingly interconnected world.

Chair:

Eric Eifert Cyber Security Research Engineer AIT Austrian Institute of Technology

Participants:

Georgios Kolliarakis German Council on Foreign Relations Advisor for Research Strategy Technology, Security, Defence Senior Fellow Alfred von Oppenheim Centre on the Future of Europe
Eman Alawadhi Vice President – Network and Cyber Security, Expo City Dubai
11:15

 – 11:30 

KEYNOTE 7

Keynote 7

Keynote:

Participants:

Helmut Leopold Initiator IDSF, Head of Center for Digital Safety & Security at AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Austria
Reinhard Marak Chief Executive Officer Austrian Defence and Security Industry Group of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, Austria
Alexander Janda Secretary General Competence Center Secure Austria (KSÖ)
11:30

 – 12:45 

SESSION 7

Geopolitics of Cyber Security for the Indo-Pacific

This session will explore how geopolitical tensions and power shifts, as well as the blurring of Member States and powerful private actors, require appropriate cybersecurity strategies for Member States and critical infrastructure operators. It will also look at how resilient digital infrastructure requires effective cross-border cooperation.

Moderator:

Participants:

13:45

 – 14:00 

KEYNOTE 8

Keynote 8

Moderator:

Cornelia Ertl Moderatorin, Austria

Participants:

Helmut Leopold Initiator IDSF, Head of Center for Digital Safety & Security at AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Austria
Reinhard Marak Chief Executive Officer Austrian Defence and Security Industry Group of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, Austria
Alexander Janda Secretary General Competence Center Secure Austria (KSÖ)
14:00

 – 15:15 

SESSION 8

Digital Transformation and the Security Impact on Nuclear Ecosystems and Non-Proliferation

Digital transformation and the convergence of advanced technologies within society and industry offer tremendous promise. However, this promise comes with potential challenges, such as technology-driven workplace disruptions, adversarial use and manipulation, and regulatory infrastructures struggling to keep pace with the rapid rate of digital transformation. The nuclear industry, a critical component of the energy sector, increasingly relies on advanced digital technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and automation. These technologies are essential not only for operating the current fleet of reactors but also for developing and launching advanced reactors to meet growing energy demands. Technological advancements are also vital for protecting and safeguarding nuclear materials and sensitive information, addressing concerns about non-proliferation and terrorist access.This session will explore the evolving digital landscape, emphasizing how digital transformation can strengthen nuclear security and safeguards while also addressing the growing adversarial use and manipulation of the digital environment.

 

Chair:

Donald Dudenhoeffer Cyber Security Research Engineer. Security & Communication Technologies Center for Digital Safety & Security at AIT

Participants:

15:45

 – 16:00 

KEYNOTE 9

Keynote 9

Keynote:

16:00

 – 17:15 

SESSION 9

SESSION 9

Chair:

Participants:

17:15

 – 17:30 

KEYNOTE 10

Keynote 10

Keynote:

17:30

 – 18:30 

SESSION 10

Building National Resilience through International Cooperation: Cybersecurity Skills Coalition

In an era of escalating cyber threats, building national resilience through capacity building, i.e. comprehensive cybersecurity training and exercises, is essential for safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the stability of the global economy. With the introduction of the NIS2 Directive and other stringent regulatory frameworks in the EU, both public and private sectors are under increasing pressure to enhance their cyber defense capabilities and ensure compliance. This session will examine how targeted training programs and real-world cybersecurity exercises can strengthen the readiness of key industries, improve cross-border collaboration, and support the EU’s broader goals of digital sovereignty and economic resilience in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Chair:

Christian Rupp former Federal Executive Secretary eGov Austria Board Member of the Nationale eGovernment Competence Centre

Participants:

Dimitris Papastergiou Minister of Digital Governance, Greece

Day 3

Friday, Junde 6, 2025

09:00

 – 09:30 

Opening Speech

Moderator:

09:30

 – 09:40 

KEYNOTE 11

Keynote 11

Keynote:

09:40

 – 10:40 

SESSION 11

From Science and Innovation to Digital Security Ecosystems

The rapid evolution of digital security requires a seamless transition from scientific research and innovation to real-world applications. In the context of digital sovereignty and international solidarity, national and EU funding programs play a crucial role in fostering secure, interoperable, and resilient digital ecosystems. Supporting businesses through targeted funding initiatives is key to strengthening Austria’s and Europe’s technological and economic competitiveness, ensuring they remain at the forefront of global cybersecurity advancements.

Moderator:

Participants:

Ralph Hammer Director of the Staff Department for Security Research and Technology Transfer at the Austrian Federal Ministry for Finance (BMF)
12:30

 – 12:45 

KEYNOTE 13

Keynote 13

Keynote:

12:45

 – 14:00 

SESSION 13

The Fight for Democracy – Censorship vs. Free Speech and Fact-Checking

In an increasingly interconnected world, the tension between censorship and freedom of expression has become a central issue in the global digital landscape. Governments and platforms struggle to balance the need to mitigate misinformation, hate speech and harmful content while protecting the fundamental right to freedom of expression. This tension is further increased by differing legal frameworks, cultural norms and the rise of intended information manipulation. This session will explore how nations and private actors are addressing these challenges, examining the impact of censorship on democratic values, global discourse, and the potential for manipulation in the digital age.

Moderator:

Participants:

14:00

 – 14:15 

Wrap-up & Farewell

Moderator:

Cornelia Ertl Moderatorin, Austria

Participants:

Helmut Leopold Initiator IDSF, Head of Center for Digital Safety & Security at AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Austria
Reinhard Marak Chief Executive Officer Austrian Defence and Security Industry Group of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, Austria
Alexander Janda Secretary General Competence Center Secure Austria (KSÖ)

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