'/%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=small}
At the invitation of the Heinrich Böll Stiftung, The Green Tank was delighted to participate in the Social Media Academy Europe, held in Berlin on 22–24 October 2026. Organised by Philipp Töllner and Annette Maennel, the three-day Academy brought together 120 communications professionals from 26 countries to explore how progressive and democratic voices can gain ground on social media without compromising their values.
The opening day featured discussions on successful progressive campaigns and the need for European alternatives to the platforms that dominate today’s digital public sphere. The panel “Regulate or Recreate? Reclaiming the Social Sphere” explored how Europe could develop its own social media platforms, offering greater control over digital infrastructure and the potential for users’ data to be stored in Europe.
Further highlights included inspiring presentations by Nika Kovač, campaign coordinator of My Voice, My Choice and founder of the 8th of March Institute, and Kitti Éva Ágoston, former Communications Director and Head of Digital at Hungary’s Tisza Party. Their contributions explored ways to counter authoritarian politics and build effective campaigns. Content creator Florian Reichelt also shared valuable insights into creating content that goes viral and attracts media coverage.
Motivating best-practice case studies from Austria, Brussels, Hungary and Poland showcased different approaches to progressive political communication and offered practical lessons from across Europe. Workshops and hands-on sessions also gave participants the opportunity to test strategies and explore ways to respond to disinformation and far-right narratives.
The three days in Berlin highlighted both the challenges facing democratic communication online and the opportunities to respond more effectively. The experiences shared and connections made offered fresh perspectives on how to make evidence-based communication more engaging, reach wider audiences and strengthen democratic debate online.
