Democracy’s Firewall Hackathon

The Democracy’s Firewall Hackathon is a Council of Europe competition inviting teams to design solutions that defend democratic values, balance privacy and utility, and foster collaboration. Teams of 3-4 multidisciplinary members compete to develop concepts addressing online disinformation and democracy-related challenges, with a full-day final in Strasbourg (17-19 June 2026) and transport and accommodation covered for finalists. A total prize of €50,000 and Microsoft grants are distributed among winning teams, with post-event implementation support provided.

Cash prizes (€50,000 total), Microsoft grants, transport and accommodation for finalists, post-event implementation support.

Open to anyone residing in a Council of Europe member state.

Submit a concept summary (up to 2 pages) with teammate details; participate in five online warm-up sessions; final in-person event in Strasbourg (17-19 June 2026).