#DIDit: EDRi members spark movement for alternatives to Big Tech

Why “Digital Independence Day”?

Dependence on a few large platforms gives those companies enormous power over communication, because they decide what is visible, promoted or hidden through their rules and algorithms.This concentration of control weakens democratic participation, as much of public debate now happens in privately owned spaces driven by commercial interests. These platforms prioritise massive collection of personal data, affecting privacy, autonomy and freedom of expression.

Network effects make a change difficult: people fear losing contacts, reach and access to information. Yet, leaving dominant platforms is about regaining choice, control and accountability in digital communication – together.

On the first Sunday of every month, we invite people to reflect on their digital habits and try alternatives to dominant platforms. To spread the word and support each other, participants share their experiences using the hashtag #DIDit. The hashtag makes stories visible, connects people across regions, and creates positive peer motivation for sustainable change.

Several EDRi members proudly support the initiative

#DIDit is supported by digital rights groups, community tech projects, environmental organisations and social initiatives. Among them are several EDRi member organisations, including Chaos Computer Club (CCC), Digitalcourage, Digitale Gesellschaft, epicenter.works and Wikimedia Germany.

Some of these organisations offer practical tools, such as alternative social networks or cloud services. Others focus on education and advocacy, helping people understand why digital choices matter. Many organisations provide hands-on advice to make switching as easy and friendly as possible.

Digital Independence Day is not about one “perfect” solution. It is about showing that there are many good paths beyond dominant platforms, and that everyone can choose what fits their needs, values and communities.

Huge public interest and fast-growing participation

Since it was presented at 39C3, Digital Independence Day has inspired strong public interest and broad support. Supporters of the initiative can schedule and publish there meetups in the event calendar hosted by CCC Flensburg. These includes local meetups where people help each other switch e-mail providers or messaging apps, while others are online workshops that explain alternative tools step by step. On the plan, there are also talks and discussions about platform power, user choice and community technology.

At the time of this writing, 189 organisations have joined the initiative, offering more than 400 meet-ups. The first DID-event in a non-German-speaking community was held on 1 February in Lisbon, Portugal, marking the first step towards an EU-wide movement.

Anyone can add an event to the calendar. Digital Independence Day is a community-driven movement, not a top-down campaign. Local groups, libraries, hacker spaces and individuals are warmly invited to take part and shape it.

Digital Rights in the broader context

#DIDit connects big policy questions with everyday life. Much of the EDRi network’s work focuses on laws, regulation and accountability. Sustainable change also needs real tools that people can use every day. Trying something new for one day can be the beginning of a new way of thinking. It shows that change is possible, and that it can even be fun, social and empowering.

In essence, #DIDit highlights the existence of alternatives and a path toward reduced digital dependence, encouraging regulators and lawmakers to do take the necessary bold steps.

Contribution by: EDRi member, Chaos Computer Club (CCC)