We are checking in with a quick update on everything that has happened so far!
The first two lecture days of the 24th Visegrad Summer School have been an incredible intellectual journey. With this year's overarching theme - the Future of Information - VSS participants dove straight into complex geopolitical and technological debates here at Villa Decius. Here is a synthetic summary of the program:
Tuesday, July 7th:
Michal Vašečka opened the sessions by examining the paradigm shift towards an AI-driven "post-society". He argued that while artificial intelligence will not globally replace humanity, humans who utilize AI will inevitably replace those who do not. Participants then explored the mechanics of cognitive warfare, analyzing how modern information operations deliberately manipulate human perception, and discussed the "firehose of falsehood" that thrives during periods of rapid social upheaval.
Roman Horbyk explored the mechanics of cognitive warfare, detailing how modern influence operations manipulate human perception, emotions, and decision-making to exploit societal vulnerabilities. He traced these tactics back to late-Soviet "reflexive control" methods, now amplified by a digital "firehose of falsehood" that thrives during periods of rapid social upheaval.
Marina Nord addressed the global decline of democracy, highlighting that autocratization can be effectively resisted through strong institutions, an independent judiciary, and early action.
Tuesday evening wrapped up with a vibrant Multicultural Garden Party, celebrating the diverse cultures and traditions of this incredible #VSS2026 cohort!
Wednesday, July 8th:
Agnieszka Stępińska explored political communication, explaining how passive content consumers have transformed into active "prosumers" who actively alter the flow of information. She warned that social media creates a dangerous "illusion of knowledge," leaving democratic societies in a profound crisis of verification.
Helena Chmielewska-Szlajfer concluded the day by proposing a radical decentralization of power to combat polarization. Her model suggests building a horizontal information ecosystem that weaponizes localized, peer-to-peer governance against disinformation.
Aleksandra Szymańska-Niekłań introduced the participants to their home for these ten days: Villa Decius. The group learned about its history as a unique hub for culture and dialogue, and explored the wide range of residency programs and international projects that make this heritage site a true center of social resilience.
The debates have been intense, and the questions even tougher. Stay tuned as we continue to map out the future!
#VSS2026 #VisegradSummerSchool #FutureOfInformation #VillaDecius #Krakow #MediaLiteracy #Democracy #AI
