02 Jul Kindly Invited by Dr. Dafydd Huw Rees: Bridging Public Spheres in Wales and the Basque Country: Creating Public Spheres Workshop. Canolfan Richard Price Centre, Cardiff University, Aberdare Hall (UK), 2 July 2024

On 2 July 2024, I had the honor of presenting my paper titled “Bridging Public Spheres in Wales and the Basque Country” at the Creating Public Spheres Conference, hosted by Cardiff University at Aberdare Hall. This exciting event, which I was kindly invited to by Dr. Dafydd Huw Rees, Darlithydd Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol mewn Athroniaeth at the Adran Athroniaeth (Philosophy Department), offered a unique opportunity to engage with scholars and policymakers on the evolving role of public spheres in today’s digital age.

My presentation highlighted how Wales and the Basque Country can use digital technologies to foster meaningful public dialogue, enhance civic engagement, and build stronger networks of regional collaboration. I discussed how these regions can navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by AI and social media, while retaining their distinct historical and cultural identities.

I was particularly honored to have Emeritus Professor Ian Rees Jones in attendance, whose groundbreaking work on public spheres has shaped the ongoing conversation around democratic participation and the importance of public institutions in fostering civic spaces.

This event was an enriching opportunity to exchange ideas on how regions can build resilient public spheres in an increasingly digital world. I look forward to further discussions and collaborations as this research continues.