Digital independence: DI-Day at H-BRS on 23 October 2026

How can digital services be used in a more self-determined way? What alternatives are there to the major digital corporations? And how does one actually go about switching to other applications? These are the questions to be explored at the first DI-Day – Digital Independence Day – at Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (H-BRS) in Sankt Augustin (Grantham-Allee 20) on Friday 23 October, from 3 pm to 6 pm, Lecture Theatre B118. “Social media, as run by the big tech companies, poses a threat to democracy,” says Professor Ulrich Kelber, former Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information, who is organising the event together with the Department of Engineering and Communication at the H-BRS, the student radio station bluedot FM, the Datenburg association and the FroSCon (Free and Open Source Software Conference) association. “Anyone who wants to be 100 per cent committed to data protection, anyone who truly says, ‘I won’t compromise’, has no choice but to turn to the Fediverse,” says Kelber. The Fediverse is a decentralised network of various platforms.

Conscious use of digital tools

Inspired by the international ‘Digital Independence Days’, the organisers aim, with this first DI-Day at the H-BRS, to strengthen digital self-determination in everyday life. The focus is on the mindful use of digital tools, the protection of personal data and the question of how dependence on large platforms can be reduced. DI-Day combines short, accessible talks with concrete alternatives and practical support. The event kicks off by exploring the importance of digital independence and the steps that can already be taken in this direction. This will be followed by a session entitled ‘Switching Tips’, which will present various digital alternatives in the areas of messaging apps, European payment solutions, chatbots and social networks. Free software and open source are also on the agenda. From 4.10 pm to 5.55 pm, participants can get to know and try out various applications in small groups and ask questions. Anyone who wishes to do so can bring their own smartphone, tablet or laptop.