Team CommUNITY (TCU), a community-based membership network that brings together digital rights defenders from across the globe, has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 Global Gathering (GG), which brings together members of digital rights networks from around the world for three days of collaboration, knowledge sharing, brainstorming, and rejuvenation. It is scheduled to take place from September 4 to 6, 2026, in Estoril, Portugal.
The Gathering has become a key meeting point for activists, technologists, civil society groups, and journalists working on technology-related challenges affecting human rights and social justice. Its open-air venue in Estoril, surrounded by trees and located just steps from the beach, has earned praise for creating an atmosphere that encourages trust-building, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue.
Over the years, the event has brought together people working on some of the most urgent digital rights issues, including online surveillance, censorship, digital security, disinformation, artificial intelligence, and internet governance. Organisers say the 2026 edition will continue this tradition, offering participants a space to exchange ideas, build alliances and develop practical solutions that strengthen civil society.
The upcoming Gathering will feature community-led programming designed to foster cross-border learning and cooperation. Attendees will have opportunities to meet leading tool developers, advocacy groups, and networks shaping global conversations around technology and rights. In addition to the main sessions, the event will include satellite activities such as workshops, team retreats, thematic discussions, and informal meetups hosted by partner organisations.
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the Global Gathering remains an important platform for those working to ensure that digital spaces remain safe, open and equitable for all. The 2026 edition is expected to draw a diverse group of participants committed to addressing emerging challenges and advancing the future of digital rights.
For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/save-the-date-global-gathering-2026.
