Deepfakes pose complex challenges to democracy, the public sphere, and the law. AI-generated images, videos, and audio recordings can influence political opinions, undermine trust in democratic processes, be used as a tool of digital violence, and significantly infringe upon the personal rights of those affected. This HIAS event examines the phenomenon from various perspectives. The legal perspective combines practice and academia, focusing on protection against digital violence and online hate, personal rights, and the challenges posed by disinformation under communications law for democratic public discourse and the formation of public opinion. The debate is complemented by the perspective of quality journalism and the question of how media outlets can contextualize AI-generated content, counter manipulation, and ensure trust in public communication.
With:
- Verena Haisch, Lawyer and Partner, Cronemeyer Haisch, Hamburg
- Nadine Klass, Chair of Civil Law, Intellectual Property Law, and Copyright Law, University of Augsburg, HIAS Fellow 2025 -2026
- Heinrich Wefing, Editorial Director of Politics, DIE ZEIT (tbc)
Moderation: Michael Grünberger, President, Bucerius Law School
Venue: Hamburg Institute for Advanced Study (HIAS), Rothenbaumchaussee 45, 20148 Hamburg
Time: This event will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. .
Registaration: Starting October 20, 2026