This EIF online debate will explore how and to what extend the digital industry, telecommunications and new technologies can help to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on the society and economy.

The debate will focus on how technology supports governments, the national health systems and economy to face the immense challenges caused by the pandemic.

The different speakers will share their experience and initial findings gathered during the last weeks and at the online Q&A session will discuss with the audience ideas and recommendations for the future.

• Programme

  Welcome and introduction

  Pilar del Castillo MEP and EIF Chair

  Speakers

  Anthony Whelan, Digital Adviser, Cabinet of President von der Leyen, European Commission

  Steven Tas, Chairman of ETNO and Director Regulatory Proximus Group

  Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl, Director General, DIGITALEUROPE

  Elizabeth Crossick, Head of Government Affairs EU, RELX Group 

  Joakim Reiter, Group External Affairs Director and Member of the Executive Committee, Vodafone

  First Respondent

  Gianpiero Lotito, Founder & CEO of FacilityLive

  Moderator

  Maria Rosa Gibellini, Director General, European Internet Forum

  Exchange of views with participants under the Chatham House rules