Join us to hear from Ron Deibert as he explores the disturbing impact of the internet and social media on politics, the economy and the environment, and asks us to consider how best to construct a viable communications ecosystem that supports civil society and contributes to the betterment of the human condition.

Disruptive technology, scientific advancements, and a global pandemic have forever changed the way we live and work. Our digital tools allow us to innovate, accelerate growth, and connect with one another as never before, but they often come with unexpected consequences. The same technologies that had been used for public uprisings against oppressive governments are now being used by those governments against political demonstrators, whistleblowers and dissidents.

Meet our speaker and chair

Ron Deibert (@RonDeibert) is Professor of Political Science at the University of Toronto's Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy and Department of Political Science, as well as the Director of the Munk School's Citizen Lab. The Citizen Lab is an interdisciplinary laboratory focusing on research, development, and high-level strategic policy and legal engagement at the intersection of information and communication technologies, human rights, and global security.

Andrés Velasco (@AndresVelasco) is Professor of Public Policy and Dean of the School of Public Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

More about this event

The LSE School of Public Policy (@LSEPublicPolicy) equips its students with the skills and ideas needed to transform people and societies. It is an international community where ideas and practice meet. The School's approach creates professionals with the ability to analyse, understand and resolve the challenges of contemporary governance.

The Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy at the University of Toronto (@munkschool) is a leading hub for interdisciplinary research, teaching and public engagement. It is home to world-class researchers and more than 50 academic centres, labs and programs. The school is made up of 60 faculty members, academic directors and chairholders, with many more affiliated faculty engaged in teaching and research.

Find out more about the LSE and University of Toronto double degree – Master of Public Administration and Master of Global Affairs.

Twitter Hashtag for this event: #LSEMunk

Podcast & Video

A podcast of this event is available to download from Reset: reclaiming the internet for civil society.

A video of this event is available to watch at Reset: reclaiming the internet for civil society.

Podcasts and videos of many LSE events can be found at the LSE Public Lectures and Events: podcasts and videos channel.