Farewell lecture by Geert Lovink: In Defense of Media
EventOn Thursday 3 September 2026, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences will bid farewell to Prof. Geert Lovink, Professor of Network Culture (Institute of Network Cultures, INC). With his farewell lecture, In Defense of Media, he brings to a close a period of more than twenty years of research, teaching and debate on internet culture, digital media and the impact of technology on society.
About the programme
We begin with a look back at more than two decades of network culture, critical internet research and digital culture, featuring various speakers affiliated with the Network Culture research group.
During his speech, Lovink reflects on the radical changes the digital landscape has undergone in recent decades. From the rise of online communities, websites and blogs to the dominance of Big Tech platforms and the growing dependence on Silicon Valley infrastructures. Against this backdrop, he poses a fundamental question: are social media actually media? And how can we create space for experimentation, independence and new forms of public communication?
Through his work, Geert Lovink has helped shape the debate on digital culture, networks and media both nationally and internationally. His insights and critical analyses have been of great significance to the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA) and to the wider field of media and internet research.
After the speech, there will be an opportunity to raise a glass to the future of Geert and the Institute of Network Cultures, which will continue as an independent cultural organization.
Practical information
Date: Thursday 3 September 2026
Time: 4.00 pm – 5.15 pm (doors open at 3.30 pm)
Venue: Gerard van Haarlemzaal, Jakoba Mulderhuis, Rhijnspoorplein 2, Amsterdam
Registration: Please register below to attend the farewell lecture and/or the closing drinks reception. Due to the limited number of seats in the venue, we recommend that you register as soon as possible.
Livestream: The lecture can also be followed online via a livestream; this link will follow.
Farewell gift
Geert Lovink and his team are currently working hard to ensure the Institute of Network Cultures continues as an independent association. If you would like to give Geert a gift on the occasion of his retirement, you may consider becoming a member of the association and/or making a contribution to support the future activities of the Institute of Network Cultures.
With your support, you will help to continue the Institute of Network Cultures intellectual legacy, research and network.
More information about membership of the association will be available shortly. You can transfer your contribution to:
IBAN: NL29 INGB 0120 1290 51
Payable to: Vereniging voor Netwerkcultuur
Reference: Farewell gift for Geert Lovink
Or via the QR code that will soon be available on the website and on the day of the farewell lecture.
More information
If you have any questions, please contact:
Joyce Overklift Vaupel Kleyn
Communications Officer, FDMCI Knowledge Centre
[email protected]