When:

6th October 2008, 04:30PM

Where:

NFT3, BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, Waterloo, London SE1 8XT

Iain Dale – Political commentator and Conservative blogger
Charles Leadbeater – Demos Associate and author of 'We-think: The Power of Mass Creativity'
Nerimon – UK-based vlogger with 30,000 subscribers 
Heather Rabbatts CBE – Independent film producer, member of the board UK Film Council (former Head of Education, Channel 4)
Richard Reeves (Chair) – Director, Demos

Demos will launch a new report, Video Republic, exploring the contours of a new public space enabled by cheap digital technology and broadband access. Production companies and broadcasters no longer hold a monopoly over moving-images - instead, a new theatre of public information has emerged. Spread across the internet, television, festivals and campaigns this emerging ‘Video Republic’ is a messy, alternative realm of video creation and exchange, dominated by young people. Who inhabits, shapes and regulates the Video Republic?

As young people experiment with taking on powerful roles as reporters, distributors, commentators and artists, they are increasingly plotting their ‘route around’ existing political and cultural institutions. This poses a profound challenge to decision-makers, but it also creates opportunities. For European democracies starved of legitimacy, it could open up new channels for democratic expression and participation.

The launch will consist of a presentation of the project findings by authors Celia Hannon and Charlie Tims, to be followed by an expert panel discussion and a public question and answer session. The evening will conclude with a drinks reception.

To attend this event please RSVP to seminars@demos.co.uk. Please note that spaces are limited.