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  CALL FOR PROPOSALS

Harnessing Big Tech to Strengthen Democracy Resilience

The Shamgar Center for Digital Law and Innovation invites researchers to submit proposals on how Big-Tech can contribute to strengthening democratic values and institutions. 

  To Submit an Application

Overview

Democracies around the world are increasingly facing challenges that threaten their core values, including pluralism, civil liberties and the rule of law.  ​

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The rise of AI and digital transformation has expanded Big Tech’s influence over the information ecosystem, shaping public discourse, markets, and innovation. While social media and tech giants are often criticized for fueling polarization, spreading disinformation, and undermining trust, their power also positions them to strengthen democratic resilience. ​

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Operating in a complex geopolitical landscape, these companies must balance competing priorities across stakeholders, regulators, and jurisdictions. Understanding their evolving role in democracy is crucial to exploring how they can reinforce—rather than weaken—democratic institutions.​Can Big-Tech contribute to strengthening democratic values and institutions?

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Which economic, governance or legal policies could help promote such trajectory?

For questions and additional details

A title is needed here

​We invite researchers from all disciplines to submit innovative proposals that explore these critical questions. The goal is to generate actionable insights and policy recommendations that address the intersection of technology, democracy, and governance. Proposals should emphasize theoretical models, historical case studies, evidence-based analysis, and practical interventions to inform policy and practice.​​​​​​

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​Proposals may address, but are not limited to, the following themes: ​

  • How Big Tech companies could strengthen democratic processes? 

  • Which policy frameworks for regulating Big Tech ensure compliance with democratic principles? 

  • Examples of partnerships between governments, civil society, and Big Tech to build democratic resilience.

  • Comparative analyses of how different regions or nations engage with Big Tech to bolster democracy.

  • How AI and emerging technological tools strengthen democratic residence? 

  • What is the role of sustainable investment and stewardship by asset managers

  • What is the role of international law and international bodies in promoting Big Tech contribution to democratic resilience? Should Big Tech companies be treated like states?

  • How to balance trade-offs between governance, innovation, and freedom in democratic societies?

Application Guidelines and Timeline  

Proposals due: March 1, 2025

Submit as single PDF including:

  • Title and abstract (300 words)

  • Short CV with relevant publications (2 pages per author)

  • Contact information

Key Dates:

  • March 1, 2025: Proposal submission deadline

  • March 15, 2025: Selected projects announced

  • September 1, 2025: Final papers due

Eligibility

The CFP is open to researchers from all disciplines, including but not limited to political science, law, economics, sociology, communication studies, computer science and ethics. Collaborative interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged.

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Selection Criteria

Innovation & originality

Feasibility & impact

Applicant’s expertise

Research Award

Selected proposals will receive an award of $2000

and will be expected to submit a 1500 – 2000 word paper on their research. These papers will be invited for presentation at an international workshop held in the fall of 2025.

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