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![Picture collage with a heart with the 4 freedoms, the SUSE I love FS logo and the thank you i love fs postcard Picture collage with a heart with the 4 freedoms, the SUSE I love FS logo and the thank you i love fs postcard](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/9d/35/92a8d4b654ae847f227d4038b1e4.png)
10 June 2024
We got an email, a few weeks ago, that caught our attention. It came
with a donation explaining that it was made in the name of an employee
network at SUSE. We decided to investigate, asked the people
responsible, and today we want to share this awesome story with you.
(Note - this is also a great idea for an initiative to ask your company
about).
![Picture collage showoing an illustration of Ada, REUSE software logo and an illustration of a city hall Picture collage showoing an illustration of Ada, REUSE software logo and an illustration of a city hall](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/3f/21/24d04ba4d35dfa3e42d79e36909d.png)
04 June 2024
In this issue, we explain our plans to make a movie of the story of Ada
& Zangemann and we are asking for your support. A new REUSE version
released; read the FSFE opinion to the European Commission on
Apple’s new strategy to comply with DMA and its impact on Free Software.
![Picture showing the main stage for the debate, showing three stands for the candidates with a presentation on the background Picture showing the main stage for the debate, showing three stands for the candidates with a presentation on the background](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/56/58/c6b094118c2a4c3e742c8bab5144.jpg)
30 May 2024
EU elections debate: FSFE Netherlands coordinator adds voice for Free Software to Amsterdam's digital city debate. Now it's your chance to highlight the importance of Free Software in the lead-up to the upcoming European Elections next week.
![Illustration from the Ada and Zangemann book showing children and adults demonstrating Illustration from the Ada and Zangemann book showing children and adults demonstrating](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/c8/42/61c6e99d3d29d4da9c727b6ec0a6.jpg)
15 May 2024
What do a Prime Minister, an MIT professor, and a child from Rajasthan
have in common? They, along with other public figures and thousands of
children, love the illustrated book 'Ada & Zangemann: A Tale of
Software, Skateboards, and Raspberry Ice Cream'. Ada has already made it
into homes and libraries around the world, and now she needs your help
to reach even more kids! Help us make a film of this story to spark more
kids’ interest in coding and tinkering!
![Picture collage showing an YH4F illustration, the Ada & Zangemann book with the French award and an image of the LLW registration desk with the LLW logo Picture collage showing an YH4F illustration, the Ada & Zangemann book with the French award and an image of the LLW registration desk with the LLW logo](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/59/e3/2040157ead41b5d9cc3ffb33ce33.png)
08 May 2024
May comes with legal news such as the Legal & Licensing Workshop and
the Bitcoin lawsuit regarding the liability of Free Software developers.
We also talked to two 2023 YH4F participants and our Danish local group
sent an Open Letter to their parliament. Did you see that Ada &
Zangemann won a prize and that the French ebook version is now
available?
![Image from LLW 2024 showing the registration table with the logos of 2024 LLW sponsors Image from LLW 2024 showing the registration table with the logos of 2024 LLW sponsors](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/43/6d/c08bc290b3231bf066e89e3fcc43.jpg)
06 May 2024
For the second year in a row, the Swedish city of Gothenburg hosted an
edition of the Free Software Legal & Licensing Workshop (LLW), the
annual conference for Legal Network members. The 2024 edition brought
new faces and great discussions and presentations on current legal and
licensing issues related to technological developments such as AI.
![YH4F main illustration wtih the 3 YH4F figures and with the “2023 projects” label YH4F main illustration wtih the 3 YH4F figures and with the “2023 projects” label](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/66/c6/0da002d353f2bfecfcb043ea9ea7.png)
30 April 2024
Find out more about the Youth Hacking 4 Freedom participants of the 2023
edition. We are continuing this series talking with Antoni and Tobias:
Antoni developed a dictionary to preserve endangered languages, and
Tobias conceived a rich featured calendar.
![Image showing a bitcoin with a blue tech background Image showing a bitcoin with a blue tech background](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/eb/53/ad6cb9ed8fd720738c087b2099a2.jpg)
17 April 2024
Free Software is everywhere, with studies estimating that it is
present in about 96% of the applications that we use. But what are the responsibilities and
liabilities of the Free Software developers? A potential threat to Free
Software developers looms in the form of an ongoing lawsuit in the UK
involving Bitcoin and its core developers.
![A collage with a drawing of a bird being freed from a cage, a photo of one of our FOSDEM talks, and a screenshot from the “What is Free Software?” video representing a public building A collage with a drawing of a bird being freed from a cage, a photo of one of our FOSDEM talks, and a screenshot from the “What is Free Software?” video representing a public building](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/cf/4e/087f399684e4d6a00f04d9807361.png)
02 April 2024
Last month, the DMA came into force and we launched a website about
Device Neutrality, the EU parliament voted the CRA and the PLD, and we
released a guide to get active for the upcoming EU elections. Check out
the videos from the devrooms we joined at FOSDEM!
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![Illustration done with a computer showing the parliament of the city with people and buildings around Illustration done with a computer showing the parliament of the city with people and buildings around](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/52/3a/970a16ed77991bb4172d382088d6.jpeg)
21 March 2024
European citizens will hit the ballot boxes from 6 to 9 June 2024 to
choose their next representatives in the European Parliament. As the
campaign heats up, it is important to get active and ensure Software
Freedom is part of the larger political debate. How can you do this?
Find practical advice on how to advocate for Free Software in the coming
months!
![Image showing the devroom organizers discussing with the participants Image showing the devroom organizers discussing with the participants](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ff/65/0496d4f8950eb6e14ad918ce3a90.jpg)
18 March 2024
Once again we co-organised our now well-known Legal & Policy Issues Devroom during FOSDEM 2024. The discussions in this track covered important issues for Software Freedom, such as CRA, RHEL, GPL termination, where discussed. Thanks to everyone who participated in it!
![Image showing a woman talking in a university seminar room full of people Image showing a woman talking in a university seminar room full of people](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/99/50/a64e2e4d243b3280250d56f583c0.jpg)
18 March 2024
The FSFE helped to organise a FOSDEM devroom about Free Software in the European legislative landscape. It was the first time that this devroom was held and got a lot of interest from the community, that engaged in fruitful discussions about current EU policy topics.
![Picture in shades of blue with a lock surrounded by a circle and the phrase cybersecurity. Picture in shades of blue with a lock surrounded by a circle and the phrase cybersecurity.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/0188f091d8cec72a54695659d554d4e1.jpg)
12 March 2024
With today's votes on CRA and PLD on the introduction of liability rules
for software, a broad exception for Free Software was made, so that
after long and intense debates individual developers and non for profit
work are safeguarded.
![Image of an European Union flag with the ilustration of Device Neutrality, a bird being free of its cage Image of an European Union flag with the ilustration of Device Neutrality, a bird being free of its cage](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/a1/05/58622b1832738c71e85a538cb518.jpeg)
07 March 2024
As the Digital Markets Act comes into effect today, Device
Neutrality starts to become a tangible reality in the European Union.
While acknowledging the new law, the FSFE alerts that this is only the first
step and further commitment is necessary.
![Collage picture of a DIY IloveFS heart with lights, FSFE staff and volunteers at our FOSDEM 2024 booth, and an image of a phone with a 2FA app on it Collage picture of a DIY IloveFS heart with lights, FSFE staff and volunteers at our FOSDEM 2024 booth, and an image of a phone with a 2FA app on it](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/19/e2/2ae27535a203e9472b8352ba1108.png)
05 March 2024
Our March newsletter is here! Last month took us to FOSDEM, while ‘I
Love Free Software Day’ was celebrated all over Europe. We also launched
a new SFP episode on the state of Free Software and a discussion on
banking and Software Freedom. Check out some interesting reading and
event recommendations!
![Smiling FSFE team members and volunteers at the FSFE booth at FOSDEM 2024 Smiling FSFE team members and volunteers at the FSFE booth at FOSDEM 2024](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/f4/77/c0dc9a85f12e912c90380098daaa.jpg)
01 March 2024
At the beginning of February, FSFE volunteers and staffers went back to
Brussels to take part in FOSDEM 2024 with a booth and talks. While for
some of us this has become an awesome yearly experience, it was the
first time for others. Thanks to everyone who came to FOSDEM, visited
our booth for a nice chat, and joined us during our social events!
!['I Love Free Software Day' heart shaped badge with LED strip, a group of FSFE volunteers with their personal ilovefs badges 'I Love Free Software Day' heart shaped badge with LED strip, a group of FSFE volunteers with their personal ilovefs badges](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/d9/c7/1077be741856c1b83fa884dd1e44.png)
26 February 2024
Together with hundreds of people and several organisations, we have
celebrated another "I Love Free Software Day" on 14 February! On this
day, we reached out to Free Software contributors to say Thank you! To
all who joined us this time: Thank you for participating in this 14th
edition of the "I Love Free Software Day" ❤️❤️❤️!
![Collage of the Sharepic from Alexander Sander and Karen Sandler on why they loves Free Software Collage of the Sharepic from Alexander Sander and Karen Sandler on why they loves Free Software](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/57/5c/2f71f1b5d3d8d3f1d9ccc35341d8.png)
14 February 2024
Have there been any changes for Free Software in Europe or the USA in the last year? How is Free Software viewed by legislators? What can we do to support software freedom? Karen Sandler and Alexander Sander are active in the Free Software movement and share their views on the current status of Free Software in our society.
![A collage of pictures with a screenshot of the final vote results for IEA, ILoveFS “Thank you” postcards, and a group picture with Edulife participants A collage of pictures with a screenshot of the final vote results for IEA, ILoveFS “Thank you” postcards, and a group picture with Edulife participants](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/be/24/07a3e026bbd277f569dd3ebd21c6.png)
13 February 2024
Once again, FOSDEM did not disappoint! Meeting the Free Software community in Brussels is always one of the best moments of the year! And just before we meet again to celebrate I Love Free Software Day with the news of the Interoperable Europe Act being adopted! This newsletter also includes our first interviews with 2023 Youth Hacking 4 Freedom participants… and more!
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![Collage of pictures from last year’s celebration, and the writing “I Love Free Software Day 2024” Collage of pictures from last year’s celebration, and the writing “I Love Free Software Day 2024”](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/7e/31/550382e3bcb588c98397392a1662.png)
08 February 2024
On 14 February, Free Software communities around the world gather to celebrate developers, maintainers, and contributors of Free Software projects. Take part in one of the many events across Europe that celebrate this day!
![Infographic of the final vote Infographic of the final vote](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/2a/0d/d962d407ddb1848b0d547b554549.png)
06 February 2024
Today the Interoperable Europe Act has been adopted in plenary with 524 votes in favour, 18 against and 97 abstentions. Although some of the potential of the regulation got undermined, the Act as a whole is an important opportunity for Free Software and its community to contribute to an interoperable Europe. The FSFE will closely monitor its implementation.
![Image of the FSFE team and volunteers during FOSDEM 2023 Image of the FSFE team and volunteers during FOSDEM 2023](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/c1/2b/a32ca6f95a79fa9394a055deface.jpg)
30 January 2024
It is that time of the year again. FOSDEM will take place in Brussels on
3 and 4 February 2024. The Free Software Foundation Europe will be there
with most of its staff and some of our volunteers! Are you planning to
attend? If so, come meet us at our booth!
![YH4F main drawing with the “2023 projects” label YH4F main drawing with the “2023 projects” label](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/66/c6/0da002d353f2bfecfcb043ea9ea7.png)
26 January 2024
Find out more about the Youth Hacking 4 Freedom participants of the 2023 edition. We are starting this series talking with Jannes and Aaron: both worked on projects related to school education, and it is particularly interesting to see how these two projects approached different aspects with a similar spirit.
![Image of the kick off during SFSCON23 showing the students group with the FSFE staffers Image of the kick off during SFSCON23 showing the students group with the FSFE staffers](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/d0/7a/a24df523825e9c9c27b181b18554.jpg)
22 January 2024
In the framework of the ITS Academy LAST project, the Free Software Foundation Europe and the Edulife Foundation, the operational partner of ITS Academy LAST, have developed a two-year agreement to deliver educational content to students about Free Software legal aspects, policy and public awareness.
![Illustration with the text “NGI Initiative, internet of humans” showing a future city in the background with some hands holding phones in the foreground Illustration with the text “NGI Initiative, internet of humans” showing a future city in the background with some hands holding phones in the foreground](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/5c/52/224760511fb6265da08a6493ce67.png)
17 January 2024
The Next Generation Internet (NGI) Zero consortium, of which the FSFE is a
partner, has just unveiled the NGI0 Commons Fund. This new public fund
will award 21.6 million euro to small and medium R&D projects
developing Free Software technologies that can improve the Internet.
![Image collage with an illustration of a heart in a screen with 1 and 0; the router freedom sticker and the software freedom podcast logo Image collage with an illustration of a heart in a screen with 1 and 0; the router freedom sticker and the software freedom podcast logo](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/f5/12/ffddcc73fe45a2be26905cf75c61.png)
16 January 2024
We are starting 2024 with a lot of energy, looking for a policy intern
and with great news: two new SFP episodes, the Router Freedom tech wiki,
the ‘Ada & Zangemann’ ebook is free of charge in French, and we are looking
forward to celebrating ‘I Love Free Software Day’ on 14 February!
![FSFE booth, without people, at the Bits and Bäume assembly FSFE booth, without people, at the Bits and Bäume assembly](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ca/54/5f42b0036360dd50b704dc71ad7a.jpg)
11 January 2024
The Free Software Foundation Europe, along with more than 10.000 hackers, took part in the 37th Chaos Communication Congress. It was a great pleasure to be back in Hamburg and to join the Chaos family for another amazing four-day congress. Thank you all for coming and participating in the Chaos!
![A DJ playing at ILoveFS Day 2023 at c-base, in Berlin A DJ playing at ILoveFS Day 2023 at c-base, in Berlin](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/c8/34/680bd97ee6bdb4767f5c036f4ec5.jpg)
09 January 2024
Every year, on 14 February, the FSFE, together with Free Software organisations around the globe, celebrates “I Love Free Software Day”: a special day of appreciation to all the contributors to Free Software projects, large or small.
![Advent wreath with a bag full of Free Software terms Advent wreath with a bag full of Free Software terms](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ec/3c/6b7d930d419f43a71f14f14966d6.jpg)
25 December 2023
These days are quite special, right? So is our Christmas Software Freedom Podcast episode! In this 23rd episode, the FSFE goes crazy and has fun playing a guessing game with terms related to Free Software. This is the perfect episode for you to learn more about your favourite type of software: Free Software!
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![An illustration about privacy showing eyes behind some bars An illustration about privacy showing eyes behind some bars](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/c2/a1/d5fc8d5a7998f9146d7be156e0f2.png)
20 December 2023
Companies increasingly aim to control how users interact with their
content online, threatening user freedom. As more companies crack down
on browser extensions and other third-party software used by internet
users to customise their experiences, two recent German court cases on
adblockers could strengthen the legal case for user control over
technology.
![A router with angel-like wings and all the freedoms related to it around it A router with angel-like wings and all the freedoms related to it around it](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/eaba93d324a8f3fad951f528bde328a3.jpg)
14 December 2023
In recent years we have focused on the policy and legal aspects of Router Freedom. Now, with the help of our Netherlands volunteer team, we are publishing the Router Freedom tech wiki, which provides information on the necessary steps you need to use and connect your own router. We need your help to get it printed!
![Group picture of the Italian community and FSFE friends on the Italian Alps Group picture of the Italian community and FSFE friends on the Italian Alps](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/b7/a0/fe41d82a70151b0d9c7448ef8296.jpg)
11 December 2023
We are looking for a motivated intern to support the FSFE’s policy activities and contribute to our work to empower people to control technology. The person will work 35 hours per week with our team in the FSFE Berlin office for a period of six months.
![Image showing the Ada & Zangemann book in different languages Image showing the Ada & Zangemann book in different languages](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/3e/34/d983774aecccb9b950910c6d54d8.jpg)
07 December 2023
Pupils all over the world are learning about the story of "Ada &
Zangemann - A Tale of Software, Skateboards and Raspberry Ice Cream": it
is encouraging to see how new generations are inspired to start coding,
and to write to Zangemann about his behaviour. Below a message from our
president Matthias Kirschner to our readers.
![collage of different pictures of this month collage of different pictures of this month](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/70/9a/1ac703589d3ae59c5b6f54711778.png)
05 December 2023
Last month YH4F 2024 kicked off, the German Parliament received the Upcycling Android Open Letter, we discovered that the ambitious plan of the Interoperable Europe Act turned out to be watered down, we celebrated Belgium’s commitment to router freedom, and much more interesting news was out.
![Illustration about the network termination point showing a modem, as a private network, and the connecting internet point, as a public communication network Illustration about the network termination point showing a modem, as a private network, and the connecting internet point, as a public communication network](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/9f/ec/5ea9fb812fdccd5e90966ebe309f.png)
01 December 2023
The Austrian Regulatory Authority for Broadcasting and
Telecommunications, RTR, has decided not to regulate the network
operators with regard to Router Freedom, allowing Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to impose their
equipment on consumers. For RTR, routers configured in “bridge mode” is
synonymous with terminal equipment freedom. The FSFE laments this
decision as a missed opportunity for Net Neutrality in Austria.
!['Public Money? Public Code!' share pic of Johannes Näder 'Public Money? Public Code!' share pic of Johannes Näder](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/e2/b9/d79137abc2aa5d24a195ea885992.png)
30 November 2023
In our 22nd Software Freedom Podcast episode, we talk with Johannes Näder, Senior Policy Project Manager at the Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE), about "Public Money? Public Code!".
![Illustration with teenagers in a hackerspace Illustration with teenagers in a hackerspace](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/9594f30fb15a8edf5082d60baac594bd.png)
16 November 2023
Registration is now open for the 2024 edition of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom, the coding competition for young Europeans. This competition gives teenagers the opportunity to code their own projects – alone or in a team –, make new friends across Europe, and win up to €4,096!
![CC-BY-SA- Elias Tetzlaff. Image showing Johannes Näder handing over the letter to Tabea Rößner CC-BY-SA- Elias Tetzlaff. Image showing Johannes Näder handing over the letter to Tabea Rößner](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/fb/41/fe1888ae201853581b722a6e1952.jpg)
15 November 2023
On 14 November, the Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) handed
over the Open Letter “The right to install any software on any device"
to Tabea Rößner, Chair of the Digital Affairs Committee at the German
Bundestag. The letter aims to enable a more sustainable use of
electronic products and devices in the European Union.
![Picture collage with a picture of Earth from space (REUSE goes to Space), the crowd at the Fediverse Symposium in Cologne, and the winners of YH4F 2023 Picture collage with a picture of Earth from space (REUSE goes to Space), the crowd at the Fediverse Symposium in Cologne, and the winners of YH4F 2023](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/d0/7f/109d47b0b7cdab5dd430197ca6ed.jpg)
14 November 2023
Our yearly report, Software Freedom in Europe 2023, is out. At the YH4F award ceremony, we learned about the awesome projects from this edition's winners, our team went to Bolzano to SFSCON, and we are happy to find out how the REUSE specification keeps on helping developers, such as the ones at the German Aerospace Center. Find these and other stories in our November issue!
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![Image of an European map with connected pins. Image of an European map with connected pins.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ec/9f/c38fa292722234d8cd67fea7f624.jpg)
13 November 2023
Decision makers are meeting to agree on the final text of the
Interoperable Europe Act (IEA). There is a concerning wording related to
giving priority to Free Software when implementing interoperable
solutions and confusing criteria to do so. Overall, what could have
been a very ambitious initiative turned out to be another regulation
with ambiguous and problematic wording.
![The Belgian regulator BIPT recognised Router Freedom as a key element for Internet connections. The Belgian regulator BIPT recognised Router Freedom as a key element for Internet connections.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/d77d9c6c1dd67bde4691263433e0448a.png)
13 November 2023
The Belgian telecom regulator BIPT formally introduced Router Freedom. The decision encompasses all network types including fiber (FTTx) and the decision sets a deadline of twelve months for becoming compliant. The FSFE acknowledges this decision as a major win for consumer rights, and will monitor further implementation.
![Portrait picture of Frank Karlitschek Portrait picture of Frank Karlitschek](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/eb/46/16f2ff6a537b6267143d3456652b.jpeg)
10 November 2023
The founder of Nextcloud received the European SFS Award at SFSCON.
This recognition which was presented for the first time jointly by the
Linux User Group Bolzano and the Free Software Foundation Europe, went to "a tireless advocate of digital freedom as universal
right".
![Image of the entrance of the SFSCON 2022 with a SFSCON baner Image of the entrance of the SFSCON 2022 with a SFSCON baner](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/b6/eb/7a99c417a759ddc75ada0a2e93cc.png)
08 November 2023
We cannot wait to be in Bolzano for the South Tyrol Free Software
Conference (SFSCON) on 10 and 11 November. This two-day conference
brings together Free Software advocates, decision makers and the
general public at the gateway to the Dolomites. Our team will be there
with talks, side events and a booth. We are ready to talk to you, so
just drop by and say hello!
![The rocket 'Fairydust' in front of the CCH building in Hamburg The rocket 'Fairydust' in front of the CCH building in Hamburg](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/bc/59/957b2b627d45f58959f33c9de46a.png)
06 November 2023
The FSFE is back for the Chaos Communication Congress! Come and join us at the end of December in the "Bits & Bäume" habitat and end the year in a fun and chaos way attending interesting talks and making new friends! The Call for Participation ends on 11 November so hurry up!
![Image showing the planet Earth from the space Image showing the planet Earth from the space](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/29/40/b94e6d8c749b721ac275a80b48b9.jpg)
02 November 2023
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) has adopted the REUSE
specification in some of its projects. We have talked to Tobias
Schlauch, research software engineer at the DLR, about the role of Free
Software for research and innovation, and the importance of clear
understanding and displaying of the legal information of software
projects. He highlights the special contributions that REUSE has to
offer for software development but also for research.
![Image showing the back of the participants of the Fediverse Day event raising their hands with a speaker on stage in the background Image showing the back of the participants of the Fediverse Day event raising their hands with a speaker on stage in the background](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/0c/ce/cc0eeb9f37091ed1fca96f0426eb.jpg)
25 October 2023
More than 70 people came together, in Cologne on 22 September, to
get an insight into the Fediverse and to discuss the importance of
decentralised social networks for our society. If you were not able to
join our Fediverse Symposium or want to re-watch
the talks, we now have the German-language recordings on our PeerTube
instance for you!
![Image collage showing a picture of Ada & Zangemann in English, YH4F logo, our booth in SFSCON 2022 and a group picture from the summer meeting Image collage showing a picture of Ada & Zangemann in English, YH4F logo, our booth in SFSCON 2022 and a group picture from the summer meeting](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/5e/5b/859c3e5ca2979bdc7082617790b8.png)
20 October 2023
In 2023, Software Freedom has been back on stage, while we have boosted
our activities for the coming generations with our children's book and
the coding competition for young Europeans. We have also continued to
bring our demands to lawmakers, helped projects to become REUSE
compliant, and shared many great moments with our community.
![Picture of YH4F workshop during the Award Ceremony weekend Picture of YH4F workshop during the Award Ceremony weekend](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/8c/66/b6fa63ad71ff1514b06dbdbe2434.jpg)
17 October 2023
A real-time plotter for microcontrollers; a classroom quiz platform; a
radio tool; a device that provides bags to pick up your dog's poo; a game
engine to help non-programmers develop their ideas; and a program to
search for a file on your computer by its hash. These are the six
projects that won the 2023 edition of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom.
![FSFE and SFC logos FSFE and SFC logos](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/03/69/2f17ef7aadf4fe570b22e3a6fb50.png)
11 October 2023
Both Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) and Software Freedom
Conservancy (SFC) are committed to defending and expanding software freedom
and the rights of people to use, understand, share and improve their software.
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![Picture collage with an image of GNU 40, about the four freedoms and a last one with the Router Freedom sticker Picture collage with an image of GNU 40, about the four freedoms and a last one with the Router Freedom sticker](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/46/5a/24fbaea61a994d4202544b8ebdd3.png)
04 October 2023
October starts after celebrating the 40th anniversary of the GNU
project, that marked the beginning of our Free Software movement. The
new political season has started, both at the EU and the national
levels. Thanks for contributing to make our What is Free Software video
available in more languages… and we had the first Ada reading in
Italian!
![GNU 40 anniversary image GNU 40 anniversary image](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/f1/35/630abac3c6cb3e2d1fe8533395eb.png)
26 September 2023
For four decades the Free Software community has been working to empower users to
control technology and to help our society understand how Free Software contributes to
freedom, transparency and self-determination.
![Image showing a computer with the dphoenix suit on it Image showing a computer with the dphoenix suit on it](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/80/55/3fc43813d932a3a95f7a233e2f76.png)
21 September 2023
The German Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) and the public IT
service provider Dataport are working on administrative workspaces to
enable digital sovereignty. But are both products Free Software? How
are they related? We asked the BMI and publish the answers here.
![Map of the world interconnected Map of the world interconnected](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/3c/b8/cafe70a1f15a50273e5ce6e053cc.jpg)
20 September 2023
Speaking about Digital Public Infrastructures last week, EU
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pointed out that "the trick
is to build public digital infrastructure that is interoperable, open
to all and trusted". What exactly does this mean? What is required to
achieve such an accessible digital infrastructure that can help foster
innovation and allow cooperation on a global scale? What role does Free
Software play in such ambition?
![Image showing diverse ports of a router Image showing diverse ports of a router](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/5a92ce4766c686c21f06f0fec28618e1.jpg)
15 September 2023
German network operators have requested the national regulator
Bundesnetzagentur to start procedures to exclude Router Freedom from
fiber networks. In a consultation, the FSFE picks apart all the telcos’
arguments and calls on the regulator to respect consumer rights.
![Illustration of diverse crowd protesting. Protesters shout cheerfully and hold icecream cones. Slogans write: Do your homework mr President and we will do ours - Youth Hacking 4 Freedom - Don't wreck our tech - There is no code B - They are young and need the code. A robot, two birds, and three dogs accompany the protest. Illustration of diverse crowd protesting. Protesters shout cheerfully and hold icecream cones. Slogans write: Do your homework mr President and we will do ours - Youth Hacking 4 Freedom - Don't wreck our tech - There is no code B - They are young and need the code. A robot, two birds, and three dogs accompany the protest.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/c8/42/61c6e99d3d29d4da9c727b6ec0a6.jpg)
07 September 2023
Join the first reading of the book 'Ada & Zangemann' in Italian! Celebrate with
us the Software Freedom Day 16 September listening to the story of Ada
while eating homemade ice cream.
![Symbol of Public Money, Public Code Symbol of Public Money, Public Code](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/6c8d43ffc1013f647affa17d8f0929d5.jpg)
06 September 2023
The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) is committed to empower
users to control technolgy to digital civil rights, transparency and
control over technology. It does this by promoting Free Software (also
known as Open Source Software). In addition, Free Software promotes
innovation and prevents vendor lock-in. Digital sovereignty is only
possible with Free Software.
![Picture collage with an image of an Android robot inside a wrench; an image of the Bundestag with a magnifying glass in the foreground; and an image of the cover of the book Ada & Zangemann Picture collage with an image of an Android robot inside a wrench; an image of the Bundestag with a magnifying glass in the foreground; and an image of the cover of the book Ada & Zangemann](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/b0/f0/8cd1ae3e01effddfd79c961d7c32.png)
05 September 2023
September brings the resumption of EU politics and the middle of the term of the
current German government, and we look at them from a Free Software
perspective. 'Ada & Zangemann' can now be ordered internationally,
and you can help us translate our 'What is Free Software' video into
more EU languages. And remember - rooting your device does not void its
warranty.
![Cover of Ada and Zangemann book Cover of Ada and Zangemann book](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/94/f4/aec90b9dfe2e0f5073003fca5d05.png)
31 August 2023
From 29 August the English version of the book "Ada & Zangemann - A
Tale of Software, Skateboards, and Raspberry Ice Cream" is available
internationally. The book tells the story of the famous inventor
Zangemann and the girl Ada, a curious tinkerer. Ada begins to
experiment with hardware and software and realises how important it is
for her and others to control technology.
![Foto des Bundestages, im Vordergrund eine Hand, die eine Lupe hält Foto des Bundestages, im Vordergrund eine Hand, die eine Lupe hält](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ca/96/e415e6a4db764efd495f9072714b.jpg)
29 August 2023
The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE), together with an
alliance of civil society and the Free Software industry, calls on the
German government to implement a sustainable digital policy and to
provide the necessary funds in the federal budget now.
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![Entrance to Bits und Baeume village by night Entrance to Bits und Baeume village by night](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/88/4b/0310a4162f109ec0326a93420dcd.png)
25 August 2023
One of our favourite events was back this summer: Chaos Communication Camp 2023! This event brings together technologists, activists, and enthusiasts to discuss, share, and celebrate technology, privacy, and freedom in Brandenburg, Germany. This year, the Free Software Foundation Europe joined the campers as part of the 'Bits und Bäume' village.
![An illustration about the four freedoms that allows Software Freedom An illustration about the four freedoms that allows Software Freedom](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/278c7c68effc3bb373e271be722e93ee.jpg)
24 August 2023
After the summer recess, EU institutions are resuming their
activities at the end of August. In the coming months, we expect to see
the adoption of legislation that could have an impact on Free
Software: the Cyber Resilience Act, the Product Liability Directive, the AI
Act, and the Interoperable Europe Act. What does all this legislation
mean for Free Software and its community?
![Four photographs of different events and activities with interns and other members of the FSFE community Four photographs of different events and activities with interns and other members of the FSFE community](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/6d/2d/8f0a2256648d6548fcaaa1e827b8.jpg)
15 August 2023
Have you heard about Free Software and you want to know more about
it? Are you already a Free Software advocate and do you want to help to bring
software freedom to our society? Then our paid internships are for you!
Learn by doing and gain knowledge and technical skills through an
internship with us.
![An illustration about the right to repair An illustration about the right to repair](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/53/e1/dbab450c6284ac9ec94d85fbafce.jpg)
07 August 2023
As users we sometimes face the issue of rooting our devices. We may
want to regain control of our
device or we may want to keep using a
device with an outdated operating system. But we are afraid of losing
our legal warranty. Let’s be clear: Just rooting your device and
installing new software will not void the statutory warranty.
![Picture collage with an image of a people attending the Summer Meeting posing on some stairs with a building behind, a image of a photocall poster with the words EU parliament in different languages and an image with the words Sofware Freedom Podcast Picture collage with an image of a people attending the Summer Meeting posing on some stairs with a building behind, a image of a photocall poster with the words EU parliament in different languages and an image with the words Sofware Freedom Podcast](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/58/df/91076bdfd02e249cf250255894eb.png)
01 August 2023
Our August issue comes with the latest updates of the CRA and the
IAE, a new episode of our Software Freedom podcast exploring Software
Freedom in EU policy, and the announcement of our symposium about
decentralised social networks. YH4F participants -and we too- are
waiting for the jury feedback on their projects.
![Lina Ceballos talking at the European Parliament Lina Ceballos talking at the European Parliament](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/7f/c1/92cec30c31b6b3e465e807628d90.png)
28 July 2023
Listen to our new Software Freedom Podcast episode with Lina Ceballos. Lina and Bonnie talk about everything related to Free Software in European Politics. Learn more about Lina's work at the Free Software Foundation Europe and how political decisions come to pass in the EU. Discover how best to advocate for Free Software, and especially, what the Interoperable Europe Act is all about and why the Free Software communities need to be on the lookout for the protection of software freedom.
![Image with a laptop with some code in the screen Image with a laptop with some code in the screen](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/3f/12/898d5df0d133996094da93e2472e.jpg)
24 July 2023
The second edition of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom, the hacking
competition for young Europeans, has just ended. For the last six
months, the participants have worked on developing their own personal
Free Software projects.
![Two computer screens showing some code Two computer screens showing some code](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/89/bf/a96f8ded8b44f6e7de3097c14d04.jpg)
19 July 2023
The European Parliament today voted on its position on the Cyber
Resilience Act (CRA). While the position improves on the Commission's
exemption to protect Free Software, it fails to introduce
a proper protection . We call on the institutions to put the burden of
liability only on those who significantly financially benefit from the
market, while protecting developers and non-profit work.
![European Parliament photocall with EU Parliament words in different EU languages European Parliament photocall with EU Parliament words in different EU languages](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/5a/a0/d4703ab70fffd88c6bedf3a838b8.jpg)
19 July 2023
Today the EU Parliament’s Committee responsible for the
Interoperable Europe Act has adopted its final position. It is a step
forward towards a more inclusive Interoperable Europe Board while it
introduces clearer indicators and statistics to monitor the progress of
the Act. This position must now be upheld during the upcoming
trilogue.
![Hand holding a smartphone checking a Mastodon account with a flowery background Hand holding a smartphone checking a Mastodon account with a flowery background](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/2d/ab/1e119e24e0babd6863638cb9e6b5.jpg)
12 July 2023
Join our symposium in Cologne on September 22 to discuss the role of decentralised social media platforms in our society!
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![Picture collage with a white image of ones and zeros, a lock with the words cybersecurity and another from an European vote Picture collage with a white image of ones and zeros, a lock with the words cybersecurity and another from an European vote](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/21/6b/7cfc0d435f9825a8c72b5f1a3582.png)
04 July 2023
July is here and so is our newsletter! In this issue we have some
updates on the latest status of the Interoperable Europe Act, the Cyber
Resilience Act, and the Artificial Intelligence Act. The competition
YH4F has just ended.
![Picture in shades of blue with a lock surrounded by a circle and the phrase cybersecurity. Picture in shades of blue with a lock surrounded by a circle and the phrase cybersecurity.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/d1b7eb0ca6ec38c89967dab6d3dd920b.png)
29 June 2023
The Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee (IMCO) today launched a landmark decision to protect Free Software developers in the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).
![European building with the European Parliament symbol European building with the European Parliament symbol](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/b0/1a/fd4cdcfc9469a641626b5eb71aa4.jpg)
29 June 2023
The two EP Committees for opinion, IMCO and LIBE, have today
adopted their texts on the Interoperable Europe Act. While both
recognise the importance of Free Software for this regulation, the
inclusion of the Free Software community in the Board remains
uncertain. The wording on proper monitoring and evaluation goes in the
right direction.
![EU building with flags from the different EU countries EU building with flags from the different EU countries](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/67/b6/6254c3286c9ade71e1b1d6b3868c.jpg)
23 June 2023
The current draft from the Council on the Interoperable Europe Act
is limiting the Interoperable Europe Board, and with this excluding
relevant stakeholders from contributing to a more interoperable and
innovative Europe. There is also a lack of improved wording in the
area of monitoring and budgeting.
![Screenshot of the final vote of the AI Act in the European Parliament Screenshot of the final vote of the AI Act in the European Parliament](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/a3/7c/94aa5b295f62e4cefb03bc1ad1ed.png)
14 June 2023
The European Parliament today voted in favour of the AI Act with 499
votes in favour, 28 against, and 93 abstentions. Free Software is given
safeguards; these rules must now be defended in the trilogue and
transferred to the Cyber Resilience Act and the Product Liability
Directive.
![House consisting of 0s and 1s House consisting of 0s and 1s](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/6c8d43ffc1013f647affa17d8f0929d5.jpg)
06 June 2023
A Free Software office and collaboration suite for the public sector is
one of the projects with which the German government aims to fulfil the
goals of the coalition agreement. But a closer look at the project
raises questions: Where is the source code? Who is responsible? What
happens to the public money involved? We asked the relevant ministry.
![Picture collage with images inside circles of the Router Freedom sticker, a human head draw in a blue background surrounded by the EU stars and the Public Money, Public Code campaign image surruonded by headphones Picture collage with images inside circles of the Router Freedom sticker, a human head draw in a blue background surrounded by the EU stars and the Public Money, Public Code campaign image surruonded by headphones](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/b3/c7/7db6a9acddc371d26a80f1a8dfaa.png)
06 June 2023
The June issue brings updates on the Interoperable Europe Act and
the AI Regulation, and the publication of the conclusions of our
European Router Freedom survey. We were invited to two podcast episodes
and were the focus of Edri's 'Member in the spotlight'. Check out a
study on net neutrality regulation and read a lovely story about Ada
arriving in rural India.
![EU flag with a gavel in the background and the word fail in the foreground EU flag with a gavel in the background and the word fail in the foreground](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/78/94/d9f6548eef03da7fac8ba80496bc.png)
24 May 2023
The Committee of the Regions approved its opinion on the
Interoperable Europe Act. The EU representative body has failed to recognise
the importance that Free Software has for interoperability and thus for
digitalisation and innovation. This underlines the relevance of the Free
Software Community's participation in the planned
Interoperable Board.
![More than a simple technical issue, Router Freedom is key to a healthy digital ecosystem More than a simple technical issue, Router Freedom is key to a healthy digital ecosystem](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/85/86/6a74ab703ca9297fa8bd6b564be3.png)
15 May 2023
A pan-European survey, run by the Free Software Foundation Europe,
has collected information from more than 1600 end-users and highlighted
several obstacles to Router Freedom, such as lack of freedom of choice,
provider lock-in and promotion of equipment running exclusively
proprietary software.
![Participants’ Background Knowledge on topics related to Router Freedom Participants’ Background Knowledge on topics related to Router Freedom](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/97/03/7f2bd5e7a784747da719fabb74bc.png)
15 May 2023
In a comprehensive survey, end-users from all over Europe shared their experience about ISPs’ commercial
practices regarding terminal equipment and how Router Freedom is affected.
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![European Union flag with an image use for AI of a human head in the center European Union flag with an image use for AI of a human head in the center](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/31/97/3af0c42c3b6a4d16077e8d3b9772.jpg)
11 May 2023
Today the European Parliament's responsible committees voted by a large majority to protect Free Software in the AI regulation. The plenary is called upon to uphold the idea. Likewise, this principle must be anchored in the ongoing Cyber Resilience Act and Product Liability Directive and their upcoming votes.
![Three young hackers are tinkering on their laptops Three young hackers are tinkering on their laptops](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/9594f30fb15a8edf5082d60baac594bd.png)
11 May 2023
Youth Hacking 4 Freedom inspires European youth to use their skills for
change. Konrad's learning platform for the amateur radio service exam is
one example. Let's break down his project and see how YH4F helped him
bring his vision to life. Join us in the exciting world of YH4F!
![Panoramic of Chalmers Univerisity buildings with Swedish flag Panoramic of Chalmers Univerisity buildings with Swedish flag](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/32/4f/263bc030879541784ebe8a9c0a18.jpg)
09 May 2023
The 2023 edition of foss-north took place in Gothenburg on 24 and 25 April 2023. It was a great occasion to meet again in person with the Nordic Free Software community. Over 180 participants had the opportunity to learn about and discuss Free Software in more than 20 sessions.
![about:freedom at night at last CCCamp in 2019 about:freedom at night at last CCCamp in 2019](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/95/95/88d7e93cbaa57397df441eaff983.png)
08 May 2023
After four years of waiting and many online conferences – probably too
many –, the Chaos Communication Camp is finally back! Come and camp
with us in the 'Bits & Bäume' village from 15th to 19th August 2023.
The Free Software Foundation Europe is part of this year's 'Bits &
Bäume' village.
![Picture collage with images of a woman giving a talk, an illustration from a children book and some brochures and totebags Picture collage with images of a woman giving a talk, an illustration from a children book and some brochures and totebags](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/ed/c6/b9cb26e2fb272f99b990309795ec.png)
03 May 2023
In this issue, you can read about the EU project NGI Zero, LLW, the
FOSS-North conference, and the struggle of Lithuanian students to avoid
using proprietary 2FA. Don't miss our new SFP episode on Device
Neutrality; deepen your knowledge with two interesting articles; enjoy
the latest ‘Ada & Zangemann’ readings; and discover two YH4F projects.
![LLW brochure and tote bag LLW brochure and tote bag](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/78/ce/61cb6009a4693e909d4b14f88dd7.jpg)
28 April 2023
The Swedish city of Gothenburg hosted the 2023 edition of the Free
Software Legal & Licensing Workshop (LLW), the annual conference for
the Legal Network community. It was great to see so many old and new
faces in person after two years online, and to learn, share and network
about the legal and licensing issues facing current technology
developments.
![Futuristic image with a blue background and people Futuristic image with a blue background and people](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/aa/f8/325974227b58fa1b835bb13e406d.jpg)
25 April 2023
The Free Software Foundation Europe is a partner of the Next Generation
Internet Zero consortium, which aims to build a more resilient,
trustworthy and open Internet that empowers end users to control
technology. The FSFE team provides support to NGI0 grantee projects on
legal and licensing issues, as well as helping them to become REUSE
compliant.
![Lucas presenting the current status of Router Freedom in Europe Lucas presenting the current status of Router Freedom in Europe](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/e7/56/1a6271a666605db6a0dbb0f01483.png)
21 April 2023
Join us for the 20th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, where
Bonnie Mehring and Lucas Lasota discuss Device Neutrality and Router
Freedom. They cover the concepts and fundamentals of these
initiatives and explain why end-users should have control over their
devices.
![Collage with a picture of a girl and a building Collage with a picture of a girl and a building](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/dd/63/d5b9fdb1b49c66b8f6e972194473.png)
18 April 2023
Vilnius Tech officials attempted to enforce the use of proprietary
two factor identification (2FA) methods. Some students were concerned
the methods would compromise privacy and could not be run in their
devices, and proposed an alternative way to get the authentication.
Finally, the university reversed its decision.
![Three young hackers are tinkering on their laptops Three young hackers are tinkering on their laptops](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/9594f30fb15a8edf5082d60baac594bd.png)
13 April 2023
While we wait for the projects developed by the participants of the second edition of the Youth Hacking 4 Freedom contest, let's go back to last year's edition to learn about two of the projects submitted.
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![foss-north 2023 is taking place in Gothenurg on April 24 and 25 foss-north 2023 is taking place in Gothenurg on April 24 and 25](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/1c/9d/e98e9cf19e89b0425ebf53ad122b.jpg)
12 April 2023
The FSFE is organising a track covering political and legal aspects
of Free Software at foss-north, the conference in Gothenburg that
brings together Nordic Free Software communities. It will take place on
April 24 and 25 preceded by the community day that will take place on
April 23. It is time to register and get your tickets!
![Collage with a photo of a children's event, an EU hearing, and a map Collage with a photo of a children's event, an EU hearing, and a map](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ef/73/bffac1854b240007eb4c579374a0.png)
04 April 2023
In April’s newsletter we discuss EU proposals affecting Free Software: the introduction of liability rules for software and the Interoperable Europe Act. Greece secures Router Freedom but excludes fiber connections.
![While we welcome the discussion on more cyber security we doubt that the introduction of liability alone will lead to more cyber security While we welcome the discussion on more cyber security we doubt that the introduction of liability alone will lead to more cyber security](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/d1b7eb0ca6ec38c89967dab6d3dd920b.png)
23 March 2023
The EU is currently debating the introduction of liability rules for
software, including Free Software. The relevant proposals are the AI
Act, Product Liability Directive (PLD), and Cyber Resilience Act
(CRA). The way they are, all proposals will harm the Free Software
ecosystem and thus the society and the economy.
![EU is aiming to create a dedicated legal framework on interoperability that until now has been non-binding EU is aiming to create a dedicated legal framework on interoperability that until now has been non-binding](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ec/9f/c38fa292722234d8cd67fea7f624.jpg)
23 March 2023
The Interoperable Europe Act (IEA) aims to assist public
administration to share, reuse and integrate information technology
and data across borders. Clear rules with concrete activities and
budget are missing. The role of civil society is overlooked, and
there are not yet clear definitions of Free Software and Open
Standards.
![Three young hackers are tinkering on their laptops Three young hackers are tinkering on their laptops](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/9594f30fb15a8edf5082d60baac594bd.png)
21 March 2023
The coding period of the Youth Hacking 4 Freedom hacking contest has
been running for almost three months now. The
competition continues to be a fun contest for young hackers to
test and develop their skills. The previous edition
ended with 35 great projects submitted with inspiring stories
behind them. Read about Andrei's and David's projects.
![Greece is now in the row of countries regulating Router Freedom. Greece is now in the row of countries regulating Router Freedom.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/82/fc/adc66b468aa1eebfdf4f5ae146b8.png)
13 March 2023
The Greek regulator has adopted new rules introducing Router Freedom
in the country. Since 2021, the FSFE has been working with policymakers
to protect the interests of end-users. Supporting civil society and
industry organisations backed the FSFE and contributed positively to
this new law.
![Painting of a women surrounded by flowers. Text: “Diversity drives innovation – when we limit who can contribute, we in turn limit what problems we can solve.” – Telly Whitney Painting of a women surrounded by flowers. Text: “Diversity drives innovation – when we limit who can contribute, we in turn limit what problems we can solve.” – Telly Whitney](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/6a/bb/9c822f53fb86874ed6ba87a2ad62.png)
08 March 2023
Today we are celebrating Women’s Day. Thank you to everyone who is
making the tech sector more inclusive! Let’s continue working
together to achieve gender parity and embrace equity. There might be
problems coming our way, but we also have each other. Join us and
meet the FSFE Women team.
![Pictures of peole and an illustration of a sphygmometer Pictures of peole and an illustration of a sphygmometer](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/8c/0e/99231801b6f091ffe8e9544a006d.png)
07 March 2023
In this issue we have a podcast episode about the need that medical
devices have Free Software. Watch our talks from FOSDEM and videos
about legal issues when developing. Participants of YH4F are already
coding. Thanks to all your contributions, our fundraising ended
successfully. We bring community news from 9 countries.
![People sitting and talking at the 'I Love Free Software Day' party in the C-Base, Berlin People sitting and talking at the 'I Love Free Software Day' party in the C-Base, Berlin](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/34/84/9320f03859a7a5e885980c97d474.png)
01 March 2023
On the 14th of February Free Software enthusiasts celebrated the 13th edition of the “I ❤️ Free Software Day”! Hundreds of people and numerous organisations shared their love for Free Software and reached out to the ones behind these projects. Thank you for taking part in the celebration of our favourite type of software: Free Software.
![four people in a booth four people in a booth](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/fd/e3/12807f628aaa35cf4732621afc55.jpg)
27 February 2023
Whether you missed FOSDEM or didn't have time to attend all of
our sessions, don't worry! Have a look at all our sessions from
the last edition and learn, deepen your knowledge, and improve your
Free Software skills.
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![Call for papers is open Call for papers is open](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/cf/bb/c54117ee5d643bb14ebea6019778.png)
22 February 2023
foss-north is a Free Software conference in Gothenburg that brings
together Nordic Free Software communities. This year, the Free Software
Foundation Europe is organising a track covering political and legal
aspects of Free Software, as well as best practices from Scandinavia.
We're looking forward to your contribution by March 5!
![The coding period of this new edition has started The coding period of this new edition has started](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/1d/78/0fe59f43fcf66ce5a1631508883f.jpg)
20 February 2023
Youth Hacking 4 Freedom, FSFE's coding competition for young
Europeans, has just started. The kick-off event took place on the 26th
of January with an online meeting for the participants of this year's
competition. There they got the most important information about the
contest while starting to get to know each other.
![Thank you for your support Thank you for your support](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/dd/ae/e548e360c8eb436c75110ea7b9a7.jpg)
15 February 2023
Thanks to your valuable contributions, we have reached our
fundraising target*. Thank you for your confidence and support, even in
these difficult times. These funds will help us run our campaigns and
organise events and talks to spread the word about our work, while
continuing to promote software freedom.
![Podcast recording equipment Podcast recording equipment](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/3c2571e9b7f4eef5442b0d451f38ec88.png)
14 February 2023
For this episode Bonnie Mehring met with Karen Sandler to talk about
her relationship with Free Software. Karen depends on a medical device
to keep her heart working. This led her to become an advocate for
Free Software in medical devices.
![Pictures of a person, a heart, and a mastodon in front on of a building Pictures of a person, a heart, and a mastodon in front on of a building](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/e0/29/ab54fd23aa23910d475412815739.png)
08 February 2023
In this issue we invite public institutions to join free,
decentralised social networks. Watch our info-session on German
municipalities using Free Software. An FSFE volunteer doubts the
reliability of AI-generated text. I Love Free Software Day is just
around the corner. Celebrate with us!
![I love Free Software Day card and flag emojis of Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Greece, Switzerland I love Free Software Day card and flag emojis of Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Greece, Switzerland](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/8a/90/6da6e380bd372a8d3e229a006feb.png)
26 January 2023
On the 14th of February the FSFE community meets up in diverse cities
around Europe to celebrate ‘I Love Free Software Day’. Join our
events in Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Greece, Switzerland and Spain.
![FSFE's booth at one event FSFE's booth at one event](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/d4/13/0de7a78d877794e87b7fe724bb18.jpg)
23 January 2023
FOSDEM 2023 is taking place in Brussels the first weekend of
February. The FSFE team will be participating at the main Free
Software convention in Europe with a booth and giving some keynotes.
Are you going to be there? Come to our booth and do not miss our
talks!
![screenshot from conference with four people screenshot from conference with four people](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/82/fd/197293efb2c0453d4323ed326447.png)
19 January 2023
Dortmund is opening a new chapter in Free Software Governance and
inspiring municipalities all over Germany. The recording of our event
on 11 January 2023 is now online. Are you interested in Free Software
and working in a municipal administration or in politics? Join our
new mailing list to exchange information on Free Software in
municipalities!
![Some of the FSFE team hiking in Bolzano Some of the FSFE team hiking in Bolzano](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/ad/1f/c618ccd9197a3e1ee2bb4bf1964a.jpg)
13 January 2023
Are you a motivated person who wants to support FSFE's activities as an intern? If your background is in computer science, law, political science or another social science field, apply to become part of our team in our Berlin office, working 35 hours per week for a period of 6 months. Join us in empowering people to take control of technology!.
![Three photographs. The municipality of Dortmund, a portrait of a person in front of GNU Health banner, a makerspace. Three photographs. The municipality of Dortmund, a portrait of a person in front of GNU Health banner, a makerspace.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/0b/53/41ce7640819321b4017c5119d813.png)
10 January 2023
In January’s Newsletter: Dortmund embraces Free
Software, and Belgium is working to ensure Router Freedom. A
cryptographer analyzes IT security. A digital health ecosystem
licenses files with the REUSE tool. We are looking for an office
coordinator. We look forward to seeing you in FOSDEM and I Love Free
Software events.
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![FediGov FediGov](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/original/88/5e/422a506b33d7f008c8185334f3ad.png)
09 January 2023
The FSFE Swiss local group launches an initiative with GNU/Linux.ch to encourage public institutions to use federated free software solutions to communicate with their people. FediGov is the name of this campaign that is encouraging people to ask their governments to adopt ethical communications.
![I love Free Software Day I love Free Software Day](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/6b7a9088527fd8ec5ca610bb0e83ec19.png)
04 January 2023
Every February 14 the Free Software community around the world comes together to celebrate the “I Love Free Software Day”. On this special day we show our gratitude for every Free Software contributor. Join us in celebrating our love for Free Software and thank all the supporters of software freedom.
![Amandine 'cryptie' Jambert in a Parisian square Amandine 'cryptie' Jambert in a Parisian square](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/ae88db28b691e90f0dc4b5c1bc403c47.jpg)
22 December 2022
A cryptographer and privacy specialist Amandine Jambert, a.k.a. Cryptie, is our guest in the 18th Software Freedom Podcast episode.
With her experience, Cryptie is the perfect person to tackle some basics about Security in Free Software.
![Matthias Kirschner with Petter Joelson Matthias Kirschner with Petter Joelson](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/37/73/4662430ec9da679e32b07bf2c51d.png)
27 October 2022
In this 17th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast Matthias Kirschner and Petter Joelson uncover how Free Software can be a tool for citizens to actively participate in their local community. Petter invites you into the world of Decidim and explains what citizen participation should look like.
![Hugo Roy Hugo Roy](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/e6/ec/27ddda602b6a643d5df3d98cfdd0.png)
09 September 2022
In this episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, Bonnie Mehring speaks with Hugo Roy about his long involvement with the FSFE. Hugo is also very active in the French Free Software community and gives us an overview of the standing of Free Software in France.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/a0da43aac80cf4d611b0a45e2e6a925f.jpg)
17 June 2022
In November 2021 the FSFE has launched the new campaign "Upcycling Android". If you haven't already upcycled your phone or you are curious to learn more about the campaign listen to our new Software Freedom Podcast episode with the campaigns manager Erik Albers.
![CC-BY-SA Andrea Behrendt, The picture shows Elektra Wagenrad CC-BY-SA Andrea Behrendt, The picture shows Elektra Wagenrad](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/0bf10017e47d8510d09d6058db413290.png)
22 March 2022
With this episode the Software Freedom Podcast opens the door to the fascinating and sometimes complex world of mesh networking. And who better than Elektra Wagenrad can take us on this journey? Elektra is one of the original developers of the B.A.T.M.A.N. protocol and of the Mesh Potato project.
![City center of the fictional city of Kush from the game 0 A.D.s Empires Ascendant. City center of the fictional city of Kush from the game 0 A.D.s Empires Ascendant.](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/e7489cba8484512c3797e4cc13927cfc.png)
27 January 2022
The upcoming "I Love Free Software Day" will focus on Free Software Games. One of the most famous Free Software games is "0 A.D.: Empires Ascendant". In this episode Bonnie Mehring talks with Stanislas Dolcini, the project leader of 0 A.D., about the game itself, the project, and how the game became Free Software.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/f1bdc9b8f6624096d659036a7d6a5589.png)
22 September 2021
With our 12th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast we dig into the
history and the beginning of enforcing Free Software licences, especially
the GNU General Public License (GNU GPL). Together with Till Jaeger, who has
been working alongside Harald Welte for enforcing the GNU GPL in the first
court cases in Germany, we talk about the long way we have come since those
early days.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/967c68c8111e86c1d29a3cebbfeb53f0.jpg)
02 July 2021
Max Mehl and Bonnie Mehring talk about the REUSE initiative and the newly launched REUSE Booster programme. This 11th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast is the perfect match for you if you are interested in Free Software licensing and curious about how REUSE and its tools make that easier for developers and users.
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![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/30f4854b37058edc2b1d7899d97ae977.png)
07 April 2021
In our 10th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast we talk with Elisa Lindinger from Superrr Lab. Together we discuss problems faced by Free Software projects and how to tackle them. In a broader frame we discover what would be needed for a more sustainable digital infrastructure and talk about the work Elisa does for this aim.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/51ab3c1a0dea8ff821a9319df3fc4935.png)
11 February 2021
For this episode of the Software Freedom Podcast we talk about the background of the "I Love Free Software Day" and how it all began 11 years ago. Discover together with Bonnie Mehring why Free Software developers, advocates, activists and contributors think this special day is so important for Free Software.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/26d760cd2dc9c7244c65e81c9037e683.png)
04 December 2020
In this Software Freedom Podcast episode Bonnie Mehring and Matthias Kirschner talk about the monetary costs of Free Software. On the example of a conversation Bonnie had with her mother, both discover ways of explaining the world of Free Software and how to answer common questions and misunderstandings about software freedom.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/9161b78da1d86f828a793d2fbf000dfd.jpg)
25 September 2020
For the seventh episode of our Software Freedom Podcast we talk with Vincent Lequertier about transparency, fairness, and accessibility as crucial criteria for artificial intelligence (AI) and why it is important for our society to release AI software under a Free Software license.
![](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/0418b6e4006c22d87b08165ce16d6621.png)
03 July 2020
We invited Miriam Ballhausen to talk with us about copyright enforcement. She is a German lawyer who focuses on software, data protection, copyright law and specifically Free Software copyright. This is the sixth regular episode of the Software Freedom Podcast for which we invite experts from our community.
![The logo of GNU Health (GH) The logo of GNU Health (GH)](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/a9db4627c7eadd60b9316446002b688b.jpg)
24 April 2020
For our Software Freedom Podcast we talk with people who have inspiring ideas about software freedom. In this special episode, we talk with Dr. Luis Falcón and Dr. Axel Braun about the Free health and hospital information system GNU Health.
![Katharina Nocun, Lawrence Lessig and Matthias Kirschner while recording the Software Freedom Podcast Katharina Nocun, Lawrence Lessig and Matthias Kirschner while recording the Software Freedom Podcast](https://pics.fsfe.org/uploads/small/4f5142b17a08dda5e0d5e4f07563b366.jpg)
09 April 2020
For our Software Freedom Podcast we talk with people who have inspiring ideas about software freedom. In this episode, we talk with Professor Lawrence Lessig, founder of Creative Commons, about regulation of society, offline as well as online, about the different means of regulation, and shed light on regulations through code.
![](/graphics/podcast-logo.png)
21 January 2020
In the monthly Software Freedom Podcast we talk with people who have inspiring ideas about software freedom. In this episode, we talk with Carmen Bianca Bakker about the REUSE project. By this we are covering the very broad topic of software licensing and the problems there, which REUSE is able to solve with three simple steps.
![](/graphics/podcast-logo.png)
20 December 2019
Once a month, we talk with people who have inspiring ideas about software freedom. In this third episode, our guest is Harald Welte, Free Software programmer and activist. Harald discusses with us his current projects regarding mobile phone communication and the general status of Free Software in this area.
![](/graphics/podcast-logo.png)
12 November 2019
We are back with the second episode of our Software Freedom Podcast!
Once a month, we talk with people who have inspiring ideas about
software freedom. In this episode, we talk with Lydia Pintscher from
KDE about the development of the KDE community, the different KDE projects
and the issues they will be tackling over the next two years.
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![](/graphics/podcast-logo.png)
12 October 2019
We have a Podcast! Starting with this episode, we will talk once a
month with people who have inspiring ideas about software freedom. In
our first episode of our Software Freedom Podcast, we address the
issue of Digital Restrictions Management (DRM) together with Cory
Doctorow, a British-Canadian writer, political activist, and
co-editor of the blog boingboing.net. Cory Doctorow is a prominent
supporter of software freedom and a less restrictive copyright law.
His books are published under Creative Commons licenses.
For older news items, please see our news archives.