Can technology truly foster equity, or does it risk reinforcing existing inequalities? This question framed many of the discussions at the 9th Business Systems Laboratory International Symposium, titled “Technology and Society: Boon or Bane?”, held on 23–24 January 2025 at the University of Insubria in Varese, Italy.
The symposium brought together academics, researchers, and professionals to critically examine the societal implications of technological change – from artificial intelligence and knowledge management to sustainability, governance, and social inclusion.
DIGICHer at the Symposium
DIGICHer was represented by Gintarė Gulevičiūtė, lecturer at VILNIUS TECH and member of the DIGICHer project team, who presented a poster titled: “Digitisation of Cultural Heritage of Minority Communities for Equity and Citizen Engagement: Aspect of Funding and Legislation.”
The poster addressed how digital technologies can support the preservation and communication of minority cultural heritage – while also drawing attention to the legal, policy, and socio-economic challenges that shape these processes.
Key Insights from the Research
The presented research emphasised that while digital tools such as 3D modelling, online platforms, and immersive technologies are increasingly used in cultural heritage preservation, technology alone does not guarantee inclusion.
Key points highlighted included:
The importance of funding frameworks at the EU, international, and national levels in enabling
sustainable digitisation initiatives
The role of citizen engagement as a value-enhancing factor in cultural heritage projects, particularly within programmes such as Creative Europe and Erasmus+
The influence of EU legislation and policy – including open data, digital access, and sustainability frameworks – on how cultural heritage is digitised and reused
Specific risks faced by minority communities, especially in relation to intellectual property rights, open data policies, and unequal representation
The poster proposed a novel, scalable framework designed to promote equity, diversity, and inclusiveness in digital cultural heritage initiatives, aligning closely with DIGICHer’s broader research objectives.
Why This Matters for DIGICHer
Participation in the BSLab Symposium reinforced DIGICHer’s commitment to examining digital cultural heritage not only as a technological challenge, but as a societal, legal, and ethical issue. By situating minority heritage digitisation within wider debates on technology and society, the project continues to contribute to more inclusive and responsible digital futures ✨
Learn more: https://bslab-symposium.net/Varese-2025/BSLAB-Symposium-Varese-2025.htm