Can We Trust Again? Digital Identity and Democracy in the Age of AI | Innovantage Podcast #37

Episode notes

What happens when technology outpaces democracy? In this episode, Max sits down with Mathieu Michel — Belgian politician, State Secretary for Digitalization, and advocate for digital identity, trust, and responsibility in the online world. He has played a leading role in shaping Europe’s digital identity standards and initiatives such as eIDAS 2.0 and the Declaration of Leuven, with a strong focus on protecting democracy, empowering citizens, and building a safer digital future. Together, they explore the tension between freedom, responsibility, and innovation. From the AI Act to digital identity, they tackle the hard questions: Can regulation protect democracy without killing progress? Is anonymity a right — or a risk? What you’ll learn: ️ Why Europe’s AI Act took five years — and what that means for innovation. ️ How digital identity standards like EIDAS aim to rebuild trust online. ️ The three levels of identity: anonymous, pseudonymous, and verified. ️ How responsible identity can combat fake news and online harassment. ️ Why trust is the foundation for innovation and new business models. ️ The role of startups in shaping Europe’s digital future.