LIST OF PANELS

The rapid development of digital technologies and their transformation have greatly expanded the forms and possibilities of citizen and civic engagement. This panel seeks to explore new forms of both citizen and civic engagement that go beyond traditional representative or participatory democracy. We focus on innovative approaches such as citizen science and civic technology, discussing the potential of these digital tools to transform social and political processes.　Digital tools could bring about new ways of interacting, making decisions, and shaping society and politics in a more effective, participatory, and inclusive manner.

We aim to examine how technological advancements are influencing democracy and civil society, and how we can leverage these technologies to foster more inclusive and effective forms of citizen and civic engagement, from both theoretical and practical perspectives. This includes evaluating how tools such as social media and digital platforms can enhance democratic participation, transparency, and accountability. Additionally, we will consider how technology can be used to bridge gaps between governments and communities, empowering marginalized voices and fostering a more participatory, responsive governance.

We welcome research presentations related to the following themes:

Citizen Science
- Design and implementation of citizen-participatory scientific research projects
- The role of citizens in data collection and analysis
- The impact of citizen science on scientific progress and society
Civic Technology
- Development of citizen-led technological solutions
- Use of open-source approaches in solving local issues
- Formation and sustainability of civic tech communities
Digital Democracy
- Possibilities and challenges of online voting systems
- Political participation through social media
- Transformation of representative democracy in the digital age
Open Data Utilization
- Release of government data and its utilization by citizens
- Initiatives in data literacy education
- Balancing privacy and transparency

We encourage submissions on innovative research or practical examples related to the use of digital technology for both citizen and civic engagement, beyond these suggested themes. We particularly welcome interdisciplinary approaches that span multiple fields and initiatives that bridge theory and practice.

Selection Criteria

- Originality and innovation of the research
- Theoretical or empirical foundation
- Social impact and practical applicability

We look forward to receiving ambitious research presentations that explore new possibilities for both citizen and civic engagement in the digital age. We hope that your research will contribute to the realization of a more open democracy and a vibrant civil society.