As Mercator Fellow, Felix Kartte will focus on advancing democratic models of digital technology regulation. He will work with the European Commission in Brussels to incorporate diverse societal perspectives and scientific expertise in the enforcement of the EU’s new digital policy framework.
The EU has introduced landmark regulations, including the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, and AI Act, aimed at curbing the systemic power of Big Tech companies, while safeguarding the values of democratic societies. These regulations are designed not only to foster innovation but also to mitigate the risks posed by AI-based technologies to children, consumers, fundamental rights, and democratic processes.
Ursula von der Leyen has made effective digital regulation her political priority as European Commission President. Strong and coherent regulatory enforcement is not just a bureaucratic exercise. It must build on positive visions of Europe’s digital future, and carefully weigh the risks and benefits of technology products. These deliberations cannot be made by regulators or tech companies alone but should be responsive to society.
During his fellowship, Felix Kartte will work with the European Commission to develop new formats for societal participation in digital policy, to support effective enforcement and the growth of European civil society ecosystems.
Felix Kartte is a policy entrepreneur, technology expert and writer. He has extensive experience in developing strategies to regulate tech companies and counter digital threats, including disinformation. He started his career as a researcher and journalist and has covered digital democracy for outlets such as Süddeutsche Zeitung and Politico. During his time at the European Commission and European External Action Service in Brussels, he was responsible for advancing the EU’s strategy for countering digital threats in collaboration with international partners such as NATO and the G7 and worked on policy files such as the European Democracy Action Plan and the Digital Services Act. He has since built and led the European operations of global nonprofit group Reset.Tech, advised philanthropic organizations and helped NGOs develop research and advocacy strategies to protect democracy in the digital age.
