Who runs the city? Algorithms vs democracy
VUB professors launch book on invisible power of digital platforms
On 2 March 2026, Prof Annelien Smets and Prof Pieter Ballon (VUB) are launching the international Handbook of Platform Urbanism. Discover how digital platforms are taking control of our cities and what this means for the Brussels context.
From Airbnb and Uber to meal delivery companies, digital platforms have become the invisible mediators of our urban life. They determine not only how we move around, but also who gets access to the city and who is excluded.
During the online launch, editors Smets and Ballon will engage with international experts on the 'urban filter bubble', data governance and the need for new urban policies.
Programme & Speakers
- Introduction: Explanation of the Handbook of Platform Urbanism by the editors.
- Panel discussion: Including Sarah Barns (expert platform models), Anna Berti Suman (civil monitoring in Milan) and Petter Törnberg (political economy in São Paulo).
- Q&A: Opportunity for press and participants to interact with the authors.
Practical information
- Date: Monday 2 March 2026
- Time: 10:30 - 12:00 (CET)
- Location: Online (Teams)
- Registration: Mandatory via this registration link
Why this is relevant to your editorial
The book contains specific analyses of the Brussels context (by researchers at Solvay Business School). It shows how global platform logic translates to local challenges such as housing, mobility and social justice. "Technology should enhance the city's diversity instead of unifying it in an algorithmic filter bubble," says Prof Annelien Smets.
Contact:
annelien.smets@vub.be. More details about the research on the project website.
