Data for Policy CIC, in collaboration with the Universitat Pompeu Fabra and the Cambridge University Press is delighted to invite submission of extended abstracts, full papers, and panel proposals for Data for Policy 2026 (DfP’26), to be held in Barcelona, Spain, on 8–10 September 2026.
The tenth edition of the conference will focus on the reshaping effects of AI in governance and decision making. This year has witnessed a significant paradigm shift, sparking increased interest in and concern regarding AI governance. The development of AI and data infrastructure has become essential amid the ‘AI War’ between the United States and China, the hybrid conflicts in Europe, and the deployment of military technologies in the Middle East. Strategic investments now prioritise access to frontier technologies, the securing of critical minerals, energy production, and key locations for water supply and cooling. AI is challenging not only global economies but also political systems. We have entered an era where AI influences geopolitics, often at the expense of fundamental rights and values.
The theme “Governance of/with AI” addresses the diverse global perspectives on this evolving technology. As AI continues to transform, it presents both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges; furthermore, emerging developments such as quantum computing heighten existing uncertainties.
This theme calls for a responsible and ethical societal response while fostering debate across multiple disciplines. We invite reflections and evidence-based research that explore and contest these views. Ranging from geopolitical promises to large-scale investments, social consequences, and legal frameworks, AI has become a truly transdisciplinary field.
We welcome contributions from a wide range of disciplines — including but not limited to computer science, engineering, law, economics, and public administration — that explore challenges and opportunities at the intersection of AI, governance, and society. We are particularly interested in work that offers valuable insights and contributes to ongoing data-for-policy discussions aligned with our core focus areas
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Area 1: Digital & Data-driven Transformations in Governance
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Area 2: Technologies & Analytics
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Area 3: Policy & Literacy for Data
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Area 4: Ethics, Equity, and Trustworthiness
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Area 5: Algorithmic Governance
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Area 6: Global Challenges and Dynamic Threats
In addition, a dedicated special track convened by The Digital Statecraft Academy (DSA) will provide a focused forum to explore the technological, institutional, and political dimensions of AI adoption. Special Track: Digital Statecraft: From Principles to Practice.
For detailed information on submission types, the review process, and important dates, we encourage you to visit the Submission & Guidelines and Important Dates pages on the Conference website.
Join us at Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, in September 2026 as we collectively navigate the opportunities and complexities of AI in governance, and contribute to building more equitable, and trustworthy digital futures.
For any inquiries or further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact df...@upf.edu and te...@dataforpolicy.org.
The Data for Policy 2026 also offers a range of partnership options, including main conference sponsorships, individual panel or keynote session sponsorships, and exhibition and demonstration spaces. Partnering with us offers your organisation the chance to contribute to meaningful discussions that shape the future of policy, technology, and innovation.
Warmest regards,
The Data for Policy 2026 (DfP’26) – Conference Committee
