Foundation/AGM2025/Election to Board/Answers and manifestos/Q09 State of the Map Conferences
State of the Map Conferences
State of the Map conferences can spark controversy over speakers, sponsors, or the political and/or safety climate of the chosen host country. What principles should guide the selection of future SotM locations and how should the OSMF respond to protests or disruptions during the event?
Roland Olbricht - Q09 State of the Map Conferences
The board shall support and not control the SotM working group. As the SotM working group has shown great competence in organizing the conference and selecting talks, the board shall not intervene there.
Brazil Singh - Q09 State of the Map Conferences
The Sotm Working group is already doing very well, though there are some controversies about the Sotm 2023, which can be hosted online but already the Sotm working group explained the matter and they did what was right according to them. Selection should consider not only physical location but also cultural, economic, and political context, ensuring that under-represented communities have a fair chance to host. Safety and accessibility must remain non-negotiable, with clear risk assessments that address concerns for diverse attendees. When protests or disruptions arise, the OSMF should uphold the principles of free expression and respectful dialogue while prioritising the safety and dignity of everyone involved.
Daniela Waltersdorfer - Q09 State of the Map Conferences
We need to ensure we provide diverse locations for the SOTM so that all regions feel welcomed. At the same time, however, we need to ensure a safe space for all attendees. As for speakers and sponsors, the SOTM Planning Committees are and should continue to do a great job in researching the core mission and values of sponsors, and have a thorough detailed process when accepting talks.
Md Atikuzzaman Limon - Q09 State of the Map Conferences
SotM location selection should prioritize:
- Accessibility: Locations reachable by diverse attendees.
- Safety: Secure environments for all participants.
- Inclusivity: Welcoming diverse backgrounds.
- Alignment with OSM Values: Supporting open data and collaboration.
In response to protests or disruptions, as referenced in the community question about FOSDEM, OSMF should:
- Maintain a clear code of conduct.
- Train staff to handle disruptions respectfully.
- Engage protesters to address concerns while ensuring event continuity.
These principles ensure SotM remains a safe, inclusive platform for the OSM community.
OSM Foundation's board election 2025: official questions
Q01 Motivation and Objectives
| Q02 Conflict of Interest Management
| Q03 Transparency and Accountability
| Q04 Teamwork
| Q05 Artificial Intelligence
| Q06 Access to Imagery
| Q07 Software Governance
| Q08 Map Styles on OpenStreetMap.org
| Q09 State of the Map Conferences
| Q10 Intellectual Property
| Q11 OSMF Enthusiasm
All board candidates' manifestos
2025 OpenStreetMap Foundation's: Board election - Voting information and instructions - Annual General Meeting
| ||||||