🎓Digital citizenship and political communication: Democratic digital spaces

This doctoral research investigates how digital spaces can be designed more democratically and the role that digital citizenship and political communication play in this process. The central question is how vulnerable citizens, such as adolescents, seniors, or people with a migration backgrounds, can be empowered against digital risks and whether digital platforms can enhance their participation in online political processes.

The opportunities and risks of digital participation are analyzed, particularly regarding inclusion, IT security, and trust in public institutions. The aim of the investigation is to understand which design principles digital communication spaces need to have in order to increase participation and promote social sustainability.

The research is guided by Value Sensitive Design (VSD) and principles of Socially Responsible Design (SRD) to ensure that digital innovations are sustainable both technically and socially. Methodologically, the study combines qualitative interviews with a media content analysis.