SMIDGE International Conference Hosted by Inclusive Europe in Brussels Marks Conclusion of Three-Year Research Project

On 29 January 2026, following three impactful years of research and collaboration under the SMIDGE project, policymakers, researchers, journalists and civil society representatives gathered in Brussels for the SMIDGE International Conference, hosted by Inclusive Europe.

The conference provided a platform to present key findings, exchange best practices and reflect on the broader implications of the project’s work on online extremism, polarisation and digital resilience in Europe.

Opening Remarks by Inclusive Europe

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Inclusive Europe. Addressing participants, the organisation emphasised that the event marked an important milestone after three impactful years of collaboration under the SMIDGE project. Inclusive Europe highlighted that the conference offered an opportunity not only to reflect on the Smidge project’s findings, but also to exchange perspectives across sectors and consider how research can inform practical responses at both national and European levels. Participants were encouraged to actively engage in discussions and contribute their expertise to strengthening collaborative approaches beyond the project’s lifespan. Inclusive Europe then invited Dr. Sara Wilford, Associate Professor at the Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility at De Montfort University and Scientific Coordinator of the SMIDGE project, to deliver the keynote address. As lead architect of the project, Dr. Wilford was introduced as uniquely positioned to reflect on its development and impact. Presentation of Research Findings

A central part of the conference was dedicated to presenting the project’s main research outcomes, drawing on surveys, interviews and focus groups conducted across multiple European countries.

Researchers explored how hybrid forms of online content - blending ideology, aesthetics, technology and participatory culture - contribute to the spread of polarising narratives. Particular attention was given to emotionally charged content and its ability to travel rapidly across digital platforms, reinforcing divisions and shaping perceptions of social and political issues. Speakers also highlighted correlations between social media consumption patterns and reduced misinformation discernment, especially in relation to highly politicised topics. These findings underscored the importance of digital literacy and critical media skills in strengthening democratic resilience.

The SMIDGE MOOC platform was also presented as one of the project’s key outputs. The free online courses, covering digital literacy, journalism ethics, cognitive biases and media ecosystems, were designed to equip journalists and media professionals with practical tools for responsible reporting. Media, Cultural and Policy Perspectives

Subsequent panels expanded the discussion beyond research findings to examine media narratives, cultural production and policy responses. Contributors reflected on how storytelling, documentary filmmaking and public dialogue can challenge harmful narratives while fostering greater understanding of online radicalisation dynamics.

Representatives of other EU-funded projects shared lessons learned from projects focused on everyday extremism, emotional drivers of political engagement, and youth-oriented prevention strategies. The exchange highlighted common challenges, including the normalisation of polarising narratives and the pressures faced by democratic institutions.

From a regulatory perspective, discussions addressed the implementation of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the role of European institutions in strengthening platform accountability. Participants emphasised that effective responses require a combination of regulatory frameworks, media literacy initiatives and proactive disruption of coordinated disinformation campaigns.

From Evidence to Sustainable Impact

As the final conference of the SMIDGE project, the event also focused on sustainability and future cooperation. Speakers stressed that while the formal project period has ended, its findings, publications and tools will continue to inform research, policy development and educational initiatives.

Inclusive Europe closed the conference by thanking project partners, speakers and participants for their contributions over the past three years. The event concluded with a shared commitment to building on the SMIDGE legacy through continued collaboration aimed at promoting inclusive, resilient and well-informed democratic societies across Europe.