Hacking for EU democracy

It’s hackathon time in Brussels. Applications are open now here for the fourth annual EUhackathon. Apply before October 2. This year’s event, scheduled for December 2 and 3, 2014, focuses on increasing democratic participation and how to increase European citizens’ involvement in the European Union policy-making process.



Previous EUhackathons also addressed pressing policy issues and built bridges between policymakers and the world of coders. The 2011 edition aimed to enhance transparency around broadband Internet access; the 2012 edition created child safety solutions; and the 2013 edition promoted transparency around government surveillance of online communications.



This year’s Hackathon entrants will be asked to produce apps that increase democratic participation. They might allow citizens to participate in public consultations or in policy-making debates held at EU (and possibly national) level. They might promote transparency, enable the mining and analysis of responses and positions published in the public consultation process or legislative debate.

Selected applicants will be invited to Brussels for the two day event. Sponsors will cover their travel and accommodation costs. The winner will receive EUR 5,000. European Parliamentarians Eva Paunova (EPP, Bulgaria), Julia Reda (Greens/EFA, Germany) and Marietje Schaake (ALDE, Netherlands) will host the award ceremony.

Posted by Marco Pancini, Senior Counsel, Brussels