Computation and automation are reshaping global political dynamics, challenging established sovereignties, and necessitating a fundamental shift in our understanding of politics. The rise of algorithmic influence on our decisions based on rapidly evolving AI technologies prompts questions about preserving personal and national sovereignties in a post-surveillance information society and the role of art in reflecting this shift.

Establishing technological sovereignty becomes essential for preserving democracy, countering the trend of individuals being treated as mere users and commodities by the extractivist tech industry. Artistic projects can raise awareness and contribute to shifts in the relationship between technology and power. The DATAS (The Data and the Sovereign) residency programme, exhibition and publication project address these challenges by exploring ways of redefining sovereignty. We invite artists to consider information technologies integral to society beyond mere tools, exploring topics like Blockchain, cyber socialism, and the algorithmic generation of national symbols.

The program focuses on artists from Eastern Europe, addressing artists from the region and organising residencies, pop-up shows and discursive events in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Slovenia and Ukraine. Results will be curated in an international group show at Rudolfinum (Prague). This regional focus is driven by the need to address under-explored issues, raise awareness about digital subjects, and support the burgeoning artistic talent in a region that lacks adequate infrastructure and international exposure.

DATAS and Ukrainian context

Since the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, both personal and state data have become key targets in the war. Since 2014, digital technologies have played an increasingly significant role in Russia's offensive and Ukraine's defence. Ukraine's critical infrastructure has been subjected to devastating cyberattacks. Such attacks disrupted connectivity, leaving many without mobile or home internet access, leaking personal data, inability to use state registries, massive disinformation campaigns, and even bombing operations orchestrated from abroad. 

Ukraine's reliance on satellite-based connectivity has demonstrated effective network access for military and civilian purposes in various situations. However, this dependence has also made Ukraine vulnerable to an unpredictable internet service provider — SpaceX — which can enable or disable connections at will.

At the same time, Ukraine has rapidly developed e-administration platforms like Diia, which provide essential public services. However, concerns remain about the security of these systems and the potential risk of private data leaks.

Media platforms have also become a battlefield for information, where disinformation directly influences life-and-death decisions. Ukraine's heavy reliance on social media and anonymous messaging channels for critical updates — such as missile attack warnings and real-time battlefield reports — makes it easier to manipulate large groups of people. 

The situation in Ukraine's temporarily occupied territories is even more dire. All internet traffic is rerouted through Russian state-controlled providers, where it is monitored and censored by Russia's System for Operative Investigative Activities. This system filters online traffic, blocks access to any website flagged by the Russian government, and tracks user data across social networks, chats, forums, messaging apps, and emails.

Access to various services, websites, and social media platforms is restricted or entirely blocked, including a ban on VPN usage. Residents are subjected to a process known as "filtering", where Russian forces inspect personal phones, IMEIs, social media activity, messaging apps, and even stored photos. Anyone whose communications — or lack thereof — appear suspicious to Russian authorities risks physical violence, arbitrary detention, or enforced disappearance.

Only Russia-affiliated messaging apps like Telegram function in these areas, making alternative means of communication nearly impossible. Ukrainian cell towers are looted and repurposed into local mobile operators under the complete control of the occupying authorities. These newly established networks are completely isolated from other mobile providers, eliminating digital sovereignty in occupied regions. Simply attempting to protect one's data can be grounds for unlawful prosecution, imprisonment, or execution.

Cover image: Mark Fridvalszki

Co-funded by the European Union as part of the Creative Europe framework. Views and opinions expressed are howeverthose of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Co-funded by New Democracy Fund / Danish Cultural Institute.

DATAS (2025-26) is an assembly convened to amplify unheard voices from Central and Eastern Europe, and Southern Caucasus, reflecting on the relationship between the self, technology, and power. Produced in partnership between Goethe-Institut (Germany), Izolyatsia (Ukraine), MeetFactory (Czech Republic), Projekt Atol (Slovenia) and Tallinn Art Hall (Estonia).