A New Vision for CKAN in the Age of AI and Civic Responsibility
This month’s CKAN Monthly Live invites you into a bold rethinking of what open data portals can be. In his talk titled CKAN as a Co-Constructor for Data, Justice and the Pursuit of Truth, Steven De Costa will challenge us to see CKAN’s global footprint not just as a technical infrastructure—but as a distributed, socio-technical engine capable of co-constructing reality through data.
The session explores the next phase of our uncommon data commons—reframing data portals like CKAN as foundational agents in a chain of possible (and impossible) transformations that can help steer us toward a more just and equitable future.
Why Attend?
In this session, you’ll discover:
- A compelling new vision for the CKAN community’s role in shaping responsible and equitable AI futures—from within the open data movement
- Constructor Theory in action—how this emerging framework can unlock hidden value across today’s open data ecosystems
- Real-world impact—a live walkthrough of Steven’s Global Data Barometer Visualization Challenge submission that uses art and construct-theoretic thinking to turn data into empowered civic agency
- An open invitation to build—get involved in collaborative “Block Builds” to design the shared, open, and civic futures of tomorrow
Presentation Highlights
Steven De Costa will take us through:
- The Sleeping Giant: CKAN’s social and technical footprint as a powerful advantage in confronting complex challenges—from responsible AI to rising digital authoritarianism
- The Science of Can and Can't: An introduction to Constructor Theory, a conceptual model to view data as a record of transformations in society—what can and can’t be done
- Co-Constructing Data Justice: A demonstration of Steven’s challenge-winning submission to the Global Data Barometer, showcasing how data visualizations can create new forms of civic knowledge and power
- A Call to Build: Become one of the “Odious Xers”—pioneers shaping the future through agile, open-source “Block Builds” that bring together technologists and change-makers
About the Speaker
Steven De Costa is a foundational figure in the open data movement and a long-serving co-steward of the CKAN project. As Chairman of Link Digital, he has spent over 20 years delivering enterprise-grade digital solutions for governments and institutions across the globe.
Steven is passionate about using technology as a catalyst for social good, with a focus on CKAN’s potential to empower communities, enhance transparency, and advance equity. His recent work dives deep into the intersection of open data, AI, and Constructor Theory—offering a visionary yet practical roadmap for a more inclusive digital future.
Connect with Steven:
Details
- Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
- Time: 13:00 UTC
- How long: 60+ mins
- Language: English
- Reserve your spot here.
Google Meet joining info
- CLICK HERE to join with Google Meet
- Or dial: (BG) +359 2 907 4153 PIN: 492 965 761#
- More phone numbers here
Meetings agenda
- Welcome and introductions – 10 min
- Presentation from Steven – ~30 min
- Q&A session – 15 min
- Community announcements and sharing (if any) – 2 min
- Closing – 3 min
You can have a look at the [CKAN Monthly Live] Meeting Doc. Feel free to add items and things you’d like to discuss to the agenda.
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We look forward to seeing you all on CKAN Monthly Live!
