FED-Lex: The Future of European Digital Legislation- Shaping Policies for Innovation and Protection

April 3-4, 2025

Conference Program

Venue: University of Szeged, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, ground floor Aula

(6722 Szeged, Tisza Lajos krt. 54.)

Call for Students Presentations

The International and Regional Studies Institute in cooperation with the Department of Private International Law, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, University of Szeged invites MA and PhD students in Law, Political Sciences, and International Relations to submit presentation proposals for the students session on the second day of the conference.

This session provides a unique platform for early-career researchers to present their work before an expert committee of international scholars who will deliver their speeches during the first day of the conference. The expert committee evaluate the presentations and offer detailed, constructive feedback to students. This is an excellent opportunity for students to refine their research, engage with leading experts, and contribute to discussions on digital governance and regulation in Europe and all over the world.

I. Conference Themes

We welcome proposals that explore legal, political, economic, and interdisciplinary dimensions of European digital legislation. Suggested topics include but are not limited to:

1. The AI Act and Beyond: The impact of EU regulations on AI development, innovation, and fundamental rights.
2. Data Protection and Privacy: GDPR enforcement, data governance, and cross-border data flows.
3. Platform Governance and Content Moderation: Balancing fundamental freedoms with regulatory oversight.
4. Cybersecurity and Digital Sovereignty: EU approaches to security challenges in the digital era.
5. International Organizations: The role of international organizations such as WTO to force, enforce and implements the regulatory initiatives
6. E-Governance and Democracy: Digital identity, voting systems, and AI’s role in democratic processes.
7. Regulating the Digital Economy: Competition law, digital services, and the power of tech giants.
8. Ethics and Human Rights in the Digital Age: Algorithmic discrimination, transparency, and accountability in automated decision-making.

Proposals addressing emerging challenges, case studies, or comparative perspectives are particularly encouraged.

II. Submission Guidelines

Applicants should submit a proposal of at least 1,000 words (including spaces) containing:

1. Title: Clearly defining the focus of the presentation.
2. Research Questions or Objectives: If applicable, clearly state the research questions; otherwise, outline the study's aims.
3. Methodology: Indicating the research approach (e.g., doctrinal analysis, empirical research, case studies, comparative analysis, etc.).
4. Findings and Conclusions: Presenting key insights and their relevance to European digital policy.
5. Future Directions and Recommendations: Suggesting potential developments and policy implications.
6. Bibliography – Listing at least five scientific sources in a recognized citation format.

All proposals must be in English and formatted in Times New Roman, 12 pt, single-spaced.

III. Selection Procedure

The conference organizers will review all submissions based on the following criteria:

• Relevance to the conference themes and current academic debates.
• Scientific rigor and originality.
• Clarity, coherence, and depth of the argument.
• Methodological soundness and academic contribution.
• Quality and appropriateness of references.

Only high-quality submissions demonstrating serious academic engagement will be accepted. The selection committee aims to foster an interdisciplinary and thought-provoking discussion.

Applicants whose proposals are accepted will be invited to deliver a 10-minute presentation in English on April 4, 2025. The presentations will be evaluated by a panel of international experts, who will provide comprehensive feedback and offer guidance for future research development.

Besides the students’ session, all students are welcome to participate in the entire conference.

Why Apply?

• Showcase your research at an international academic event.
• Receive expert feedback from leading scholars.
• Engage in interdisciplinary discussions on digital legislation.
• Network with professionals and fellow researchers.
• Receive a certificate to increase your CV’s impact.

How to Apply

• Submission Deadline: 1 March 2025
• Send your proposal via Google Forms link here.
• Notification of Acceptance: 15 March 2025

We look forward to your submissions and to welcoming you to an engaging and intellectually stimulating discussion on the future of European digital legislation!