Whistleblower Snowden To Speak at Aus Civil Society Event
30 April 2015 at 10:58 am
The world’s most famous whistleblower, Edward Snowden, will speak on the need to protect citizens from the growing threat of State surveillance at a Melbourne conference on civil society in May.
In an Australian-first appearance, Snowden will take part in a debate at Progress 2015 about State surveillance in the digital age.
Snowden, the former National Security Agency contractor who leaked thousands of secret files to the media, will appear by video-link from Russia, where he lives in temporary asylum.
Progress 2015 is the peak conference for Australian civil society, being attended by the who’s who of the nation’s campaigners and changemakers. Organised by Australian Progress, it will be held at the Melbourne Town Hall from 7 to 9 May.
Other speakers at Progress 2015 include Australian of the Year Rosie Batty, philosopher Peter Singer, author Naomi Klein (by video-link), ACTU President Ged Kearney, former Liberal Leader John Hewson, anti-nuclear advocate Helen Caldicott and businesswoman Sam Mostyn.
There will be sessions discussing family violence, climate change, Federal and State politics, fossil fuel divestment, philanthropy and global trade and economics.
Nick Moraitis, director of Australian Progress, said he was delighted to have Snowden appearing on what was a broad and diverse program of speakers.
“State surveillance of its citizens is a critical issue for Australia and the world,” Moraitis said.
“Surveillance systems are now no longer limited by technology, but by the choices we make as a society. Having Edward Snowden appearing at Progress 2015 will help focus debate on how we can build stronger movements to protect our freedoms in the digital age.”
Moraitis said Progress 2015 was an opportunity for civil society to come together and map out a path forward for the nation.
“Surveys have shown that Australians have lost faith in politicians and business leaders. This means the role of community leaders is more important than ever. Progress 2015 is an opportunity to harness the power of civil society and to build a positive vision of Australia built around fairness, sustainability, democracy and global engagement,” he said.
Check out the full program for Progress 2015 HERE. Pro Bono Australia is a Progress 2015 event partner.
