59c3

59c3 refers to the 36th Chaos Communication Congress, a major annual conference organized by the Chaos Computer Club (CCC), a well-known German hacker collective. The event took place from December 27 to January 1, 2022, in Leipzig, Germany, following the traditional schedule of running over the New Year’s break. The congress is renowned for its focus on technology, digital rights, privacy, and the ethical implications of innovation, attracting thousands of attendees from around the world, including hackers, researchers, journalists, and activists.

The 2022 edition featured a diverse lineup of talks, workshops, and discussions spanning topics such as cybersecurity, cryptography, artificial intelligence, surveillance, and legal challenges in the digital age. Notable speakers included experts from academia, industry, and civil society, addressing issues like digital sovereignty, the impact of quantum computing, and the role of technology in social movements. The event also emphasized hands-on activities, such as hacking challenges, hardware workshops, and creative coding sessions, fostering a collaborative and experimental atmosphere.

59c3 was held in hybrid format, combining in-person attendance at the Leipzig Trade Fair Center with virtual participation, reflecting the ongoing adaptations to global events following the COVID-19 pandemic. The congress underscored themes of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of open knowledge, aligning with the CCC’s long-standing mission of promoting transparency and critical engagement with technology. As with previous editions, the event sparked debates on pressing societal issues, reinforcing its role as a platform for intellectual exchange and collective reflection on the future of digital society.