Introduction In this session, the panel explores the opportunities and challenges of fostering cooperation among DPO federations across Europe and beyond. By connecting expertise, resources, and networks, these federations play a crucial role in promoting best practices, facilitating knowledge, and advocating for strong data protection frameworks on a global scale.  

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italiano

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italianoThis panel will focus on national developments in data protection law beyond the European Union, analyzing which core values and principles underpin different approaches to privacy and data protection legislation. What are the big enforcement cases or actions that have shaped various national or state-level approaches...

The Coffee Break for all participants will take place in Scuola Grande di San Rocco.

Sessione in italiano

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italiano

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italiano

Session in Italian / Sessione in italianoIT: Attorno al GDPR, l’Unione Europea sta mettendo a punto un ecosistema giuridico di protezione e valorizzazione delle informazioni: Regolamento 2018/1807, direttiva (UE) 2019/1024, direttiva (UE) 2019/770, Data Act, Data Governance Act, Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, Regolamento e-privacy, Regolamento Intelligenza Artificiale....

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italiano

This session will be the opportunity to deepen the main aspects of Data Protection by Design in Practice.

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italianoTwo years into the COVID-19 pandemic, we have reached an appropriate standpoint during which to reflect on the lessons we have learnt so far. On a pan-European level, we witnessed the introduction of parallel measures such as legislative proposals, states of emergency, passenger locator forms, contact tracing applicat...

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italianoA broad conversation about the impact of technology on society, regulation and what companies and policy makers ​can do to enable the use of technology for good while protecting individuals. 

This session will describe main innovation on advanced cybersecurity assets for supporting privacy and security European solution. The white papers will be presented in this session. 

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italiano

The rise of private authorities, albeit in the a-territoriality space such as the Web, is representative of an economic and social phenomenon that cannot disregard the respect of legal rules, especially for the protection of the right to privacy, the right to data protection, and other fundamental rights. On the one hand, the GDPR has provided a new approach for the autonomy of individuals, especially for companies which perform data processing...

This session will describe common collaborative activities and innovative solutions envisioning new cybersecurity assets in the areas of cyberthreat intelligence and financial incident reporting. 

Session in English interpreted into Italian / Sessione in inglese con la traduzione in italiano

The Welcome Desk to collect your badge and conference bags is available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday 17 to Friday 21 April in Spazi Espositivi Room at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Dorsoduro 3246 – 30123 Venice. 

This session will discuss new trends around standards and certification in and for cybersecurity. 

We will wait for you at the Caffè Margaret DuChamp located at D. Duro 3019 on Campo Santa Margherita as of 6.00pm.  

The Welcome Desk to collect your badge and conference bags is available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday 17 to Friday 21 April in Spazi Espositivi Room at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Dorsoduro 3246 – 30123 Venice.  However, on Tuesday ...

For morning coffee breaks from Monday 17 to Friday 21 April, vouchers will be available to enjoy a typical Italian coffee at  Caffè Rosso if you attend the sessions at Santa Margherita Auditorium or at Venice Eat if you attend the sessions at Ca’ Foscari or Ca' Dolfin.In addition we will also offer a coffee break at Scuola Grande di San Rocco on Tuesday 18 April.

This panel will explore the interconnected nature of transatlantic cross-border data transfers with a variety of stakeholders. It will touch upon the EU-US Data Privacy Framework and other adequacy decisions as a means to bridge the gap between transatlantic data flows and standards. The panel will also explore key challenges to transatlantic data transfers, such as government access to data, and discuss international initiatives taken to develop a co...

We will have inaugurate the second edition of the Privacy Symposium on Tuesday 18th of April and enjoy the Official Welcome Reception at Scuola Grande di San Rocco at 6:00 pm.This Reception will take place In this magnificent building, dating back to the 15th century with of numerous artworks by the famous Venetian painter TintorettoFor your co...

The Welcome Desk to collect your badge and conference bags is available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday 17 to Friday 21 April in Spazi Espositivi Room at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Dorsoduro 3246 – 30123 Venice. 

The role of the Data Protection Officer has greatly evolved since the nomination of the first DPO in the Land of Hesse, Germany in 1971. Originally designed to protect citizens privacy against too much scrutiny from the state, it shall now protect people from the invasive curiosity of private companies, large and small, as well as from increasingly active criminal organizations. New EU regulations aim at controlling large internet actors with the Digital Services Act and the Data Marketing...

With soaring expectations and regulations on privacy, the co-authors of the book, 'Data Privacy Program Guide: How to build a privacy program that inspires trust' will provide actionable guidance to revive and inspire organisational trust in your enterprise privacy program. Hear true stories of successes and failures involving the human dimension and how to levera...

Technology is at the heart of the most important social and economic advances of the last 20 years. It is an enabler of the digital transformation that is set to enrich how we live and work.  It is also often at the centre of controversy over how and for what purpose it collects, generates or uses data. This session will explore the inextricable link between digital transformation and privacy, and the European measures that hope to level the...

Government access to personal data for national security purposes in India and China after Schrems II

The Welcome Desk to collect your badge and conference bags is available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday 17 to Friday 21 April in Spazi Espositivi Room at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Dorsoduro 3246 – 30123 Venice. 

The Welcome Desk to collect your badge and conference bags is available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from Monday 17 to Friday 21 April in Spazi Espositivi at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Dorsoduro 3246 – 30123 Venice. 

This rich introduction to the Privacy and Democracy track represents a compelling journey into the heart of democratic values and individual privacy rights, featuring high-level speakers from the Italian Institute for Privacy and Data Valorisation and the European Centre for Certification and Privacy. 

Introduction The constant and rapid evolution of the digital landscape directly influences the roles and responsibilities of professionals tasked with safeguarding data privacy and ensuring regulatory compliance. This is especially highlighted by recent EU legislations, such as the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, Data Act, Data Governance Act, together with European Data Sp...

Introduction The new wave of European regulations is directly impacting and redefining the role of the DPOs. In parallel, new standards are emerging to specify the qualification requirements of DPO and data protection professionals. Whether you are a DPO or a data compliance professional seeking to enhance your experience, or an organization aiming to strengthen your data protection s...

Introduction While data protection regulations are adopted by a growing number of countries, there are some divergences in their adoption. Some jurisdictions also question the universal nature of the rig...

The adequacy requirement plays a significant role in EU data protection law. The third country must provide adequate data protection to make personal data transfer free, i.e., treat the transfer as if it happens within the EU. A third country must pass the assessment conducted by the European Commission to do so. The doctrine describes the assessment as not transparent enough and influenced by the political background. There are few...

Introduction As Europe continues to strengthen its cybersecurity framework in response to evolving threats and challenges, understanding the intricacies of this legislative landscape is essential for org...

Introduction This session will wrap up the track on making data secure, by sharing perspectives on priority strategies to address cybersecurity challenges.  Key questions and objectives What is the main takeaway on making data secure?How...

Introduction This Welcome Reception invites you to discover the Privacy MelodIA: An original musical composition on data protection, performed in an outstanding setting and surrounded by the largest collection of Tintoretto’s paintings. 

The International Cooperation track serves as platform for dialogue, exchange, and collaboration, where we get to explore innovative solutions and build meaningful partnerships beyond borders and across various disciplines. This session offers an introductory discussion that brings together an esteemed panel of high-level speakers and experts, such as the Italian Minister of Justice, US Federal Trade Commissioner, Pr...

Introduction Most companies perceive compliance with data protection regulations as a source of costs. This session will explore a new perspective: how to turn compliance into a source of economic and financial value creation, and how to move from cost to investment perspective. This session also focuses on the relationship between compliance efforts and their financial and economic e...

Introduction This session provides an in-depth analysis of the recent evolution and current status of cross-Atlantic data protection collaboration and convergence. It will discuss the challenges and opportunities for both regions to overcome their differences and develop common frameworks. The panel will consider the common interests and interdependencies of the two regions and their ...

Introduction We live in a world defined by unprecedented data flows and digital interconnectedness, which means that protecting personal information across borders has become a pressing concern. This session focuses on the progress in terms of multilateral data protection, with a focus on three major international organizations: the Council of Europe, the OECD, and the UN.  ...

Introduction This session will analyze the policies, initiatives, and collaborative efforts undertaken by G7 member countries to establish solid frameworks that prioritize individuals’ privacy rights, while maintaining innovation and economic growth. The attendees will explore the challenges, responsibilities, opportunities, and aspirations in building a world where privacy and data r...

Introduction The panel of this session will examine the dynamic interplay among various European Data Regulations, including the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Digital Services Act (DSA), Data Act (DA), Artificial Intelligence Act (AIA), and Market in Crypto-assets Regulation (MICA). It will also focus on unraveling the complexities surrounding these regulations and offer insights into ov...

Introduction There has been an emerging innovative approach to marketing in the digital realm that utilizes the concept of privacy by design. In this session, attendees will discover this approach, especially regarding online marketing that prioritizes user privacy from the outset. From data minimization to transparent consent mechanisms, the speakers will unveil strategies for buildi...

In 2022 and 2023, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) conducted 70 interviews with heads and staff members of the EU-27 national Data Protection Authorities. Through these interviews, FRA collected experiences, challenges and good practices when it comes to enforcing the GDPR. In this report, FRA 1. identifies common trends and difficulties across Member States, 2. showcases how difficulties can practically harm the effective implementation of DPAs’ mandate, and 3. presents close to 40...

Introduction The EU GDPR entered into force on 24 May 2016 and is applicable since 25 May 2018. It had a worldwide impact and triggered the adoption of many similar regulations across the world. This session will explore the lessons learned. What has been successful and what could be considered for future regulatory evolution? Join top-level authorities and experts for an insightful e...

Introduction The EU GDPR makes over 70 references to certification, and its Article 42 sets the basis for a European Data Protection Seal. In October 2022, the European Data Protection Board approved the Europrivacy criteria to serve as European Data Protection Seal. In March this year, European Accreditation validated the accreditation of Europrivacy at European level in line with Ar...

Introduction Concerns over data privacy and market concentration have intensified over time, which makes regulatory compliance more extensive to encompass competition policy and privacy protection. This session will explore key EU legal principles related to PET, examining how practices such as user profiling, tracking, and targeted a...

Introduction Biometric data is increasingly used for medical diagnosis, public safety, and home access controls. In the ever-evolving world of data protection and privacy, biometric data compliance and ethics stand at the forefront of the discussion. From fingerprint scans to facial recognition, it represents a unique set of opportunities and risks. This session explores the ethi...

Introduction This session sheds light on the relationship between digital currencies and data protection, focusing particularly on the compliance challenges and opportunities that could emerge. Attendees will find out how these digital currencies continue to shape the financial world, and will gain insights into the unique data protection considerations associated with digital currenc...

The transfer of data across borders is essential to the functioning of the cross-border payments system. Market participants are subject to a range of laws, rules and regulatory requirements as well as technical data standards (“data frameworks”) that relate to transfer of data across borders. Enhancing the interaction between data frameworks and cross-border payments is a priority action to move forward the G20 Roadmap for Enhancing Cross-Border Payments, which aims to address th...

Introduction While several mechanisms exist to support international data transfers, certification is characterized by a higher level of trustability. Contrary to SCCs, for instance, a certification relies on effective third-party audit and validation by qualified experts. It ensures that data is effectively adequately handled without having to cross borders. This session will discuss...

Introduction With the proliferation of artificial intelligence technologies, challenges are inevitable to ensure that data practices comply with evolving legal requirements while utilizing the potential of AI innovation to the maximum capacity. With this session, the speakers will explore the integration of AI legal frameworks into data protection compliance programs. 

Introduction This session will discuss the interplay between data protection and economic development. It will try to move beyond position statements, to explore the facts and evidence of such interplay and potential trade-off. Is privacy limiting or accelerating economic development? What are the risks and economic impact on countries that do not provide high-level standards for...

Introduction This session will present views on the risks and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence, by giving the floor to senior experts and authorities from the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS), European Parliament, Commission nationale de l'informatique et des libe...

Introduction With the Digital Markets Act (DMA) shaping the rules governing online platforms, businesses must adapt to new compliance requirements in this evolving regulatory environment. This session offers a deep dive into the DMA’s provision, their potential impact, and strategies for ensuring compliance in a rapidly changing regulatory world.  

Introduction All democratic regimes recognize both the need to protect fundamental rights of its citizens, while ensuring that authorities can enforce law and protect their citizens against threats, such as terrorist attacks. There is an increasing awareness of the need to balance public interest and fundamental rights. How do government agencies in democratic countries ensure the rig...

Introduction From the GDPR to the ePrivacy Directive and beyond, Europe has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for data processing, some of which have their own implementation scheme with dedicated bodies. This session will discuss data regulations interplay and oversight in practice. Key questions and objectives...

Introduction Artificial intelligence ingests existing data to generate new data. AI technologies continue to revolutionize industries, but questions surrounding the ownership of data and the protection of intellectual property have become increasingly complex. In this session, the speakers will explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, data ownership, and intellectual prope...

Introduction Generative AI drives innovation in various sectors, but compliance with the GDPR presents both future challenges and future opportunities. In this session, the speakers will analyze the relationship between generative AI and the GDPR, in addition to presenting pathways for using generative AI while highlighting best practices, legal considerations, and ethical application...

Introduction This session will discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on safety and security. What are the new threats to be addressed? In parallel, it will also discuss how to make AI safe and secure by design. Speakers in this session will explore the latest advancements, challenges, and strategies to address security and safety.  

IntroductionImagine this: A multinational company grappling with an unexpected ransomware attack. Stakeholders are on edge, the clock is ticking, and swift decisions are paramount. This isn't just a test of your expertise, but also a measure of how well you can handle pressure, make crucial decisions with your team, and lead during chaos.Key Questions and objectivesThis is a unique dive into a cyber crisis scenario mirroring the comple...

While users value personalization, they also want brands and platforms to be responsible and transparent about data practices. Privacy-enhancing technologies will be critical to maintaining user expectations regarding both privacy and utility of digital marketing. Trusted execution environments (TEEs) are a form of PET often used to protect sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers. They can also be used to improve data privacy while still providing utility, by allowing ...

Introduction Over the years, the decisions of the Court of Justice of the EU have played a significant role in shaping the legal framework for privacy rights within the European Union and beyond. From landmark rulings on data protection to the interpretation of fundamental rights, the speakers will explore the interplay between judicial decisions and the evolution of data protection a...

IntroductionData breaches constitute a significant risk for all companies. Based on the previous session, which involved running a data breach simulation, legal, cybersecurity and crisis communication experts will engage in a discussion with participants about their experiences in the simulation. The aim of this discussion is to share examples, best practices and insights for preventing and handling data breaches. The prevalence of sophisticated cyber threats in organ...

Introduction This session is designed to reflect on the key insights that have been discussed in the collective exploration of artificial intelligence. To conclude, speakers will talk about the most crucial learnings, trends, and actionable steps, in addition to valuable reflections to inform future endeavors in the realm of AI.  

This workshop is designed to practice the conformity assessment procedure of AI systems in accordance with the emerging AI Act. The workshop is structured to provide theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, focusing on the Act's obligations and requirements concerning intended use, data governance, transparency, and the technical and organizational measures implemented to ensure compliance.Workshop Activities:Introduction to the AI Act: The facilitators present...

The AI and Compliance track serves as a dynamic platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration on the evolving legal and regulatory landscape of AI, in addition to its increasing involvement in all aspects of our personal and professional lives. This opening session welcomes the Rector of Ca' Foscari University of Venice and the Chair of the Privacy Symposium to set the stage for insightful discussions. 

This enriching session will shed light on the consequences of data scraping in regard to privacy and intellectual property rights. Data scraping refers to the automated extraction of data from websites, APIs, and other online sources, which consequently raises questions surrounding the secondary uses of such data. Attendees of this session will have the opportunity to hear from several European and global authorities on how they perceive and addr...

This session will explore how to design data spaces that aren’t just legally compliant but also fundamentally structured around privacy, security, and trust. By embedding compliance in the core of data infrastructure design, we can move beyond reactive measures and create environments that foster confidence and cooperation.  Key questions 

As AI usage seems to proliferate, international regulations may be the way to go to develop cross-border compliance and cooperation. Featuring representatives from both sides of the Atlantic, as well as renowned global think tanks, this session will discuss how organizations can effectively align themselves with international regulations to achieve convergence and interoperability.  ...

This session brings together industry leaders and regulators to explore the essential aspects of designing compliant AI training models. In the discussion, panelists will provide a comprehensive overview of the intersection between regulatory requirements and innovative AI practices, offering practical advice and actionable insights for professionals in the field. Key topics include:  

Agentic AI is ushering in a new era of technological capability, with systems designed to autonomously achieve complex goals by reasoning, planning, and using digital tools. This innovation holds transformative potential. Our panel will explore the evolving data protection considerations that accompany these advancements. Join leading experts as they discuss how familiar privacy principles apply in this new context and identify emerging questions, fostering a di...

Cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented pace, which makes AI and machine learning essential tools in the fight against cybercrime, by enabling faster threat detection, automated responses, and predictive defense strategies. However, with these advancements come new challenges. The panel of this session will explore the future of AI-driven defense and what it means for privacy, security, and resilience.  

We will inaugurate the fourth edition of the Privacy Symposium at the Official Welcome Reception. This event marks the beginning of a week rich in insightful discussions and open exchange, set in the inspiring atmosphere of Venice. Guests will have the opportunity to admire the remarkable works of Tintoretto, one of the city’s most celebrated painters, while connecting with professionals from diverse backgrounds and engaging in fruitful discussions. The evening will be enriched by...

Modern vehicles are more than just simple transportation; they are data hubs constantly collecting and transmitting information. From GPS tracking and in-car entertainment systems to AI-powered assistance, connected cars are revolutionizing the concept of mobility. The exceptional panel of this session will explore the fine line between convenience and surveillance, geolocation tracking, and how regulations are adapting.  

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) plays a critical role in shaping the EU’s privacy agenda, as there is a growing need to balance technological advancements, international cooperation, and the complexity of data governance. Attendees of this session will develop a deeper understanding of the EDPS Roadmap, a strategic vision shaping Europe’s data protection landscape. From regulatory chall...

The role of data regulations in enabling economic growth is currently a topic of intense interest in many parts of the world. Attendees of this enriching session will hear discussions on the nature and design of data regulations, and balances to be struck, including the extent to which regulators seek to enable good outcomes as well as prevent bad ones.  Key questions 

From GDPR to emerging AI regulations, organizations must navigate complex frameworks while ensuring seamless data flows across borders. This session will bring together experts to discuss practical strategies for overcoming regulatory conflicts, enabling responsible data practices, and fostering global cooperation. Key questions 

The last few years have seen a significant increase in digital solutions that support privacy friendly electronic identification and authentication: mobile identity wallets, zero knowledge proofs, verifiable credentials, age assurance applications, and so forth. Legislators are also increasing their support for these solutions. But are they actually trustworthy from a privacy perspective? This session will explore the potential, and the pitf...

Convention 108+, the ‘modernised’ version of the Council of Europe’s data protection treaty, is positioned to play a key role in shaping global data governance and privacy regulations for years to come. This treaty aims to create a more solid framework for data protection to keep pace with the digital world, and to extend beyond Europe’s borders. The esteemed speakers of this panel will present Convention 108+ in the context of striking a balance...

After a productive day of engaging sessions, what better way to refresh than by enjoying a traditional Aperol Spritz at the Privacy Professionals’ Meet-up? Join us for a relaxed evening of conversation and connection over this iconic Italian cocktail. It’s a unique opportunity to get to know other participants of the Privacy Symposium, while enjoying a taste of the dolce vita in true Venetian style.

This session promises to dive deep into the real-world impact of data anonymization and synthetic data, exploring how these techniques are being used to protect privacy in different industries. Experts of the panel will break down the myths and realities of these privacy-enhancing technologies, tackling their benefits, limitations, and regulatory challenges head-on. Key questions&nbsp...

Europe’s data regulations are very intricate to form the whole picture, which means that each piece is essential, yet constantly shifting. The Data Act, Data Governance Act and GDPR are not isolated frameworks; they are deeply intertwined to shape the way we interact with the digital reality. This session unites esteemed professionals and officials from Euroconsumers, DG Justice, DG Connect, and Lativia DPA, diving beyond the legal aspect to unco...

With countries adopting their own unique approaches to data protection and compliance, organizations are left to navigate a maze of regulatory frameworks. The distinguished panel of this session is composed of high-level professionals and officials, from Timelex, EDPS, Digital Regulation Cooperation Forum, the Indian Ministry and many more. Together, they will explore how to address global data regulations while ensuring privacy and compliance. T...

Age assurance is a growing requirement for online safety, but one that comes with clear interdependencies with data protection. Requirements for highly effective age assurance have to be considered alongside data minimisation requirements under the GDPR. The limitations of working in silos must be overcome, and one way of doing so is via a multistakeholder dialogue that brings data protection regulators, safety regulators, academics, companies an...

Growing up in the digital age means that children are exposed to data collection before they even learn to read. This insightful session explores ways in which a safer online space can be created for the next generations, and how to enforce meaningful protection, while balancing innovation with responsibility and empowering young users to navigate the internet safely.  Key questions

This expert panel will delve into the multifaceted challenges surrounding cybersecurity and privacy incident management, as well as personal data breaches within the European regulatory landscape. With contributions from industry leaders, privacy professionals, and regulators, the discussion will highlight the interplay between key regulations such as the GDPR and the NIS 2 Directive, emphasizing their evolution in the context of AI systems and m...

Marking the halfway point of the conference, have a relaxing evening at the Privacy Professionals’ Meet-up.  Enjoy a refreshing spritz while engaging with other privacy experts. After a productive day of sessions, this is an excellent occasion to meet with other participants and speakers, resume discussions, and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Medical data is one of the most sensitive types of information, yet it is also the foundation of groundbreaking research, diagnostics, and personalized treatments. Consequently, healthcare providers, researchers, and tech companies must navigate an increasingly complex web of regulations without slowing progress. Join the panel of this unique session as it unpacks the evolving landscape of medical data regulatory compliance and data governance.&n...

This session will welcome industry professionals to explore the adoption of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) regulation and its impact on obligations and compliance requirements. Drawing on the panel's insights, the discussion will cover the practical aspects of implementing EHDS, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities it presents.  Key questions 

If you are interested in how to turn the principle of privacy into marketing practices that not only comply with the law but also resonate with the audience, then this session is for you. The panel will explore how to build privacy-first marketing strategies that respect consumer data while still driving engagement and delivering results.  Key questions 

Medical research often relies on accessing large and diverse datasets from different regions to ensure the results are comprehensive and unbiased. This session will explore the opportunities, needs, and challenges involved in sharing medical data across borders. The European Health Data Space (EHDS) offers a framework to enable such international collaboration, but how does it function in practice? What are the potential constraints in other juri...

This session will take a deep dive into the evolving process of assessing AI’s impact on fundamental rights, transitioning from traditional Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA) to the Fundamental Rights Impact Assessment (FRAIA). The speakers will explore how to practically apply these assessments in AI development and deployment, ensuring that privacy and human rights remain at the forefront. 

The Privacy Symposium is delighted to invite you to a unique musical experience on Thursday, 15 May at 6:30 PM, where the Quartetto Pegreffi will take the audience on a musical journey inspired by Venice’s atmosphere. The concert will present a selection of pieces ranging from refined baroque elegance to rich impressionistic colours. The programme reflects the ambience and charm of the surroundings, offering a moment of pause and appreciation in the midst of the Privacy Symposium....