International Religious Liberty Association · Newbold College
Fides et Libertas Conference 2026
Religious freedom
in the age of
emerging technologies
11-12 November 2026
Newbold College of Higher Education · Binfield, UK
Register for freeRegistration is free. Places are limited.
Faith, freedom and our digital future
How free are our beliefs in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, surveillance and algorithms?
Technology is changing not only how we communicate, but also how we access information, form opinions and express our convictions. As digital systems become more sophisticated, important questions are emerging about their influence on freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
On 11-12 November 2026, Newbold College of Higher Education will host the Fides et Libertas Conference, organised by the International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA).
The conference will bring together scholars, experts, educators, pastors, students and other interested participants to explore how emerging technologies are affecting religious freedom and fundamental human rights.
The conversation
Religious freedom in a changing digital world
Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental human right. It protects not only the freedom to practise a religion, but also the freedom to hold, change or express personal convictions without coercion or discrimination.
Yet emerging technologies are creating new challenges for these freedoms.
Artificial intelligence can shape the information we encounter. Digital surveillance can reveal personal activities and associations. Biometric identification and data profiling can expose sensitive information, while algorithms influence whose voices are heard and which perspectives remain visible.
These developments raise significant questions. What happens when religious beliefs can be inferred from personal data? Could surveillance discourage individuals from expressing their faith? How might algorithms influence the formation of beliefs or the visibility of religious perspectives?
And, importantly, how can technology be developed and governed in ways that protect human dignity, privacy and freedom of conscience?
The Fides et Libertas Conference will provide an opportunity to examine these questions through presentations and discussions, bringing together perspectives from religion, technology, ethics, law and human rights.
At the intersection of technology and human rights
Five themes shaping the conversation
Surveillance and religious expression
Digital monitoring, whether carried out by governments or private organisations, can influence how freely individuals express their convictions. The conference will consider how surveillance technologies may affect religious practice, particularly among vulnerable communities and religious minorities.
Algorithms and access to religious information
Search engines, social media platforms and recommendation systems increasingly influence what information people encounter. How might algorithmic bias affect the representation and visibility of religious ideas? What are the implications for religious diversity and freedom of expression?
Religious data, privacy and discrimination
Digital activity can reveal sensitive information about an individual’s religious beliefs and practices, sometimes without their knowledge or consent. Discussions will examine the risks associated with data collection, profiling and automated decision-making, and the importance of protecting privacy and preventing discrimination.
Artificial intelligence and freedom of thought
AI systems do more than provide information. Through personalised content, recommendations and repeated exposure to particular perspectives, they can influence how people understand the world. The conference will explore the implications for individual autonomy, critical thinking and the freedom to form or change personal beliefs.
Protecting fundamental rights through technology governance
How can societies encourage technological innovation without compromising fundamental freedoms? The conversation will consider the role of ethical principles, human rights frameworks, transparency and accountability in shaping the responsible development and regulation of emerging technologies.
An open invitation
Who should attend?
The conference welcomes anyone interested in the relationship between technology, society and freedom of religion or belief. It will be particularly relevant to:
No specialist technical knowledge is required. The conference aims to encourage thoughtful discussion across disciplines and perspectives.
- Students exploring theology, ethics, human rights, law, public policy or technology.
- Pastors and religious leaders seeking to understand the challenges that emerging technologies present to faith communities.
- Educators and researchers interested in the relationship between religious freedom, technology and society.
- Professionals and practitioners working in human rights, religious liberty, technology governance or related fields.
Two days of dialogue
Conference programme
Wednesday 11 November and Thursday 12 November 2026. The conference will feature presentations and discussions on its central themes.
The programme is subject to change. Further details will be made available to registered participants.
Join us at Newbold
Plan your visit
Venue and location
Newbold College of Higher Education
St Mark’s Road, Binfield
Bracknell, Berkshire, RG42 4AN
United Kingdom
Lunch and catering
Participants will be asked during registration whether they intend to stay for lunch on either day. This information will help the organisers plan catering arrangements. Further details about lunch arrangements will be communicated to registered participants.
Accommodation
Accommodation is not included in conference registration and must be arranged separately.
Newbold College may have accommodation available on campus, subject to availability. Participants wishing to stay at Newbold are encouraged to contact the College directly to enquire about room availability, rates and booking arrangements.
Accommodation enquiries: [email protected] | +44 (0)1344 407407
Please mention the Fides et Libertas Conference when making your enquiry. Accommodation is not guaranteed, and bookings must be confirmed directly with Newbold College.
Free admission · Advance registration required
Register for the conference
Join the conversation about the future of religious freedom in an increasingly digital world.
11-12 November 2026 | Newbold College of Higher Education | Free admission - advance registration required
Places are limited. Please register in advance and indicate which day or days you intend to attend.
Register for freeAbout the organisers
International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA)
The International Religious Liberty Association promotes and defends freedom of religion or belief, encouraging dialogue and understanding around this fundamental human right. More information: irla.org
Newbold College of Higher Education
Newbold College of Higher Education is a Christian higher education institution in Berkshire, United Kingdom, with a focus on theology, ministry and the exploration of faith in contemporary society. Through education, research and dialogue, Newbold seeks to provide opportunities for engagement with questions affecting the Church and wider society. More information: newbold.ac.uk