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Security & Privacy Conference 2026
Keynote by Bert Hubert: “We must put an end to our Calimero complex”
With his keynote ‘Sovereignty 2.0: and now for real’, Hubert sets the tone straight away. He outlines the state of affairs regarding digital sovereignty in Europe and the Netherlands and shows that we are not nearly as helpless as we think.
Bert Hubert
According to Hubert, the problem lies not in capacity or money, but rather in a lack of self-confidence. Europe spends billions annually on foreign technology companies, even for relatively simple solutions. That money, Hubert believes, could also be used to develop and manage these technologies ourselves. Yet, he argues, we remain stuck in a ‘Calimero complex’: the idea that we are too small and cannot do it ourselves.
A brilliant excuse
In his keynote, Hubert calls for a change in mindset, because it is not only unjustified to think we cannot do it ourselves, it is also “a brilliant excuse for doing nothing.” Hubert’s message is clear: the conditions are in place; now is the time to actually take action.
Join us on 25 and 26 June!
Does Bert Hubert’s keynote appeal to you? Buy your ticket now for one or two days packed with in-depth sessions and practical contributions on current issues surrounding cybersecurity and privacy. Visit the website of the Security & Privacy Conference 2026 for more information about the programme.
About Bert Hubert
Bert Hubert is the founder of PowerDNS, whose open-source software powers a large part of the European internet. He previously worked for the AIVD and was a member of the Review Committee on the Use of Powers by Intelligence and Security Services until the end of 2022. He is currently, among other things, a technical adviser to the Electoral Council and a member of the advisory committee of the Authority on Online Terrorist and Child Pornographic Material. He also writes and speaks extensively on technology and digital autonomy and regularly advises governments and businesses.