Treaty of Middelburg
I would like to change how we think about and protect freedom in the digital age. Today, freedom isn’t just about speech or movement—it’s also about control over our data, our attention, and our ability to think critically. I want to see a world where young people are not just passive users of technology, but active participants in shaping it ethically and transparently. That means advocating for digital rights, privacy, and education that empowers us to question, to choose freely, and to resist systems that manipulate or limit our potential
Team members
- ■ Nicole Duque
Why do you want to participate?
I want to participate in the Youth Freedom Conference because I’m passionate about exploring issues related to freedom, human rights, and youth empowerment. This conference offers a unique space to exchange ideas, learn from diverse perspectives, and engage with others who are equally committed to making a difference. I believe that by participating, I can deepen my understanding of global and local challenges to freedom, develop practical skills for advocacy, and contribute meaningfully to discussions that matter to my generation.
What does freedom mean to you?
To me, freedom means the ability to think, speak, and live authentically without fear. It’s about having the power to make choices—about my education, my body, my future—while respecting the rights of others to do the same. Freedom also means access: to knowledge, to opportunity, and to a voice in shaping the world around me. It's not just the absence of oppression, but the presence of justice, equality, and dignity for all.
What are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges to freedom for young people today is the illusion of choice in a world shaped by technology and algorithms. Like in Brave New World, where people were conditioned to accept their roles and feel content, we are increasingly surrounded by systems—especially AI—that influence what we see, think, and even desire. While we believe we are free, our attention, opinions, and identities are subtly shaped by digital platforms and data-driven decisions. The challenge is recognizing these invisible controls and finding ways to stay critical, informed, and human in an increasingly automated world.
Do you have a message?
I hope the ethical issue of AI and how it will impact our freedom will be considered
