EFFecting Change: How to Build a Decentralized Web That Truly Works for All

EFFecting Change: How to Build a Decentralized Web That Truly Works for All
September 17, 2026 at 11:00 am Pacific

Freedom, openness, interoperability, and the ability to connect without a single gatekeeper defined the internet’s core promise 25 years ago. Today, most of our online life happens on centralized platforms that control our data, shape our experiences, and set the rules for communication. This monopolization brings real risks: digital surveillance, censorship, and a loss of user agency.

The fediverse offers a different model. Instead of a single platform, it’s a network of independent, interoperable services that connect using open protocols like ActivityPub. Like email, people can choose different providers yet still communicate across the network. Users can build online spaces that reflect their communities’ needs and values. Organizations can host their own services or partner with trusted providers, gaining control over their data, reducing reliance on corporate platforms, and fostering more localized approaches to online community.

Join Babette Ngene and Rory Mir of EFF, in conversation with renowned PIT technologist Bruce Schneier, and Social Web Foundation Executive Director Mallory Knodel about what the Fediverse can and cannot offer users. Rather than asking if decentralized platforms can replace today’s dominant social networks, we’ll focus on a deeper question: What would it take to build an internet where people and communities have real choices about participation, data control, and governance of their digital spaces?

Accessibility: This event is live-captioned. Once the stream begins, captions will show below the video. They can also be viewed in a separate window by clicking here.

Simulcasts: Twitch and YouTube Live

This event will be recorded and available on our Youtube page and the Internet Archive.

Support EFF’s work in the courts, policy analysis, grassroots activism, and privacy-enhancing technology development today! Join and even get great EFF gear at: https://www.eff.org/SupportChange.

EFF is dedicated to a harassment-free experience for everyone, and all participants are encouraged to view our full Event Expectations. More here...

Thursday, October 8, 2026
EFFecting Change: Protect the Vote
eff.org/EFFectingChange

Voting is a right. But voting records are highly sensitive. Once you cast your vote, how does the technology in the voting booth and the policy of the country protect voting access and democracy? For decades, advocates have fought for strong cybersecurity standards at polling places and fought in court to protect the privacy of voting records.

As we head into the height of election season, join EFF, along with Mark Lindeman of Verified Voting, and Derek Tisler of Brennan Center to discuss the current state of election privacy and cybersecurity—find out more about what protects your vote after you submit your ballot. Join the livestream online followed by live Q&A.