As the fractures of the internet deepen, SplinterCon emerges as a hub for those dedicated to building its resilient future. On February 24, 2025, we’re convening at RightsCon in Taipei to explore the dynamics of a fragmented digital landscape and push the boundaries of what’s possible in decentralized connectivity.
Taiwan stands at the crossroads of geopolitical tensions and technological innovation. Its unique position—with a commitment to open government and open-source implementation, alongside its proximity to some of the most restrictive digital regimes—makes it an ideal space to explore the tension between digital sovereignty, resilience, and global interoperability.
By bringing together technologists, policy advocates, and activists, SplinterCon offers sessions that reimagine a resilient, open internet. Expect four hours of intensive programming, including lightning talks, keynotes, panel discussions, and live tool demonstrations covering:
- Resilient Systems: A deep dive into decentralised protocols, peer-to-peer networks, and satellite-enabled communication with and within isolated networks.
- Geopolitical Dynamics: Case studies from Taiwan, Ukraine, Russia, Iran, Latin America and more on countering state-controlled infrastructures and fostering open access.
- Interoperable Futures: How we can balance the rise of sovereign digital ecosystems with the imperative of open, global standards to ensure a collaborative internet.
Participation
This edition of SplinterCon is a Satellite Event of RightsCon — the world’s leading summit on human rights in the digital age. To participate, you’ll need a RightsCon ticket. Upon registering for SplinterCon, you’ll receive a 25% discount code for your RightsCon ticket purchase.
📅 Date: February 24, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Taipei Time)
📍 Location: Room 101B, Taipei International Convention Center (TICC)
Registration closes on February 23, 2025, at 23:59 (Taiwan Time).
Note: SplinterCon is available exclusively for RightsCon ticket holders. You can purchase ticket here, with a 25% discount: https://www.rightscon.org/checkout/
Conference Program
10:00 – 11:30
Infrastructure, Policy, and the Geopolitics of Internet Fragmentation
How internet fragmentation manifests through policy decisions and infrastructural dependencies. Featuring insights from Wu Kuo-Wei (TWIGF, ex-ICANN) on Taiwan’s network resilience and Alena Epifanova (DGAP) on the EU’s digital self-sovereignty dilemma, moderated by Mallory Knodell (CDT).
11:45 – 12:45
Mapping the Splinternets: Data & Measurement Approaches
How network measurement tools capture internet fragmentation in real time. Featuring Marwan Fayed (Cloudflare) on routing and network health in Taiwan, and Elizaveta Yachmeneva (OONI) on Russia’s evolving censorship landscape.
13:00 – 14:00
Beyond VPNs: Encrypted Protocols & Proxyless Strategies
Why the future of circumvention moves beyond traditional VPNs. Featuring Mallory Knodel (CDT) and Vinicius Fortuna (Google Jigsaw) on encrypted transport-layer technologies, along with insights from Project Ainita on bypassing Iran’s National Internet.
14:00 – 15:00
Building Resilient Networks: Mesh & P2P Solutions
How decentralized infrastructure enables resilient communication in isolated environments. Featuring Sean (TWC Mesh) on Taiwan’s mesh network deployment and Dmitri Vitaliev (eQualitie) on Ouisuite, a P2P content distribution toolkit.
SplinterCon Booth & Blockathon
Throughout RightsCon, visit the SplinterCon Booth to explore eQualitie’s shutdown-resilient tools and technologies developed by our partners. The booth will also host the Blockathon, an interactive, capture-the-flag-style competition designed to simulate censorship and shutdown scenarios. Participants can test their strategies, gain hands-on experience, and compete for prizes.
📅 Dates: February 25 – 27, 2025
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Taipei Time)
📍 Location: Community Village, Floor 2 or 3, Taipei International Convention Center
Social Event
Join us for an evening co-hosted by the Association for Progressive Communication (APC) and the Open Culture Foundation (OCF). Hosted outside of main RightsCon venue, this gathering offers an opportunity to explore the vibrant cultural scene of Taipei and connect with community of Taiwanese technologists.
📅 Dates: February 26, 2025
📍Location: Details will be shared via email with registered participants.
