Nikos Hardalias, Regional Governor of Attica, highlighted the challenges and opportunities emerging in the modern digital age during his opening remarks at the MAD Forum 2026, which is being held under the auspices of the Region of Attica.
In his remarks, he placed particular emphasis on the importance of young people’s participation in public discourse on issues that affect their future, noting that initiatives such as the MAD Forum create a space for expression, the exchange of ideas, and meaningful participation.
The Regional Governor discussed the changes that artificial intelligence is bringing to the production and dissemination of cultural content, emphasizing that technology is now an integral part of everyday life. As he noted, this development creates new opportunities for creation and expression, but at the same time raises important questions regarding copyright, the economic value of creation, and the fair recognition of creators.
- Regina Kouri, Nikos Hardalias, Regional Governor of Attica, and Andreas Kouris
According to him, technological progress should not be viewed with fear, but with responsibility and institutional regulation. As he emphasized, it is essential to establish a framework that ensures a balance between innovation and the protection of those who create cultural content, so that new technologies serve to support—rather than undermine—the creative community.
He also made special mention of young people’s relationship with the digital environment. In the context of international discussions on the protection of minors online, he raised the issue of striking a balance between necessary protection and the risk of excessive control. As she noted, every democratic society is called upon to find the point at which protection does not become a restriction on freedom.
At the same time, he emphasized that policies designed for young people must take into account their own experiences and needs. Trust in the younger generation, he noted, is a fundamental prerequisite for building a more open, democratic, and inclusive society.
The Regional Governor also highlighted the momentum building around contemporary musical trends in the Greek music scene, noting that these are not merely a musical genre but a broader cultural phenomenon with its own aesthetic, language, and social references. According to him, the State must understand and recognize these forms of expression, as they constitute an important part of contemporary youth culture.
In this context, he emphasized that the creative economy and culture can serve as avenues for inclusion, self-expression, and equal participation for all young people, regardless of their social background or identity. Cultural activities, festivals, and new forms of digital creation contribute not only to cultural development but also to the creation of employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Referring to the Region’s initiatives, he noted that the “Attica 2021–2027” program supports actions that promote the creative economy, innovation, and youth participation in culture. At the same time, efforts are being made to upgrade public spaces and metropolitan parks to create open environments where young people can meet, create, and express themselves freely.
He also placed particular emphasis on the development of digital skills, noting that the digital age is creating new forms of inequality linked not only to economic factors but also to educational and cognitive factors.
In closing his remarks, Mr. Hardalias emphasized that today’s younger generation has more tools than ever before to create and make their voices heard. As he noted, the role of the State is to ensure the conditions for equal opportunities, participation, and freedom of expression in a society that moves forward with respect for diversity and inclusion.
