We are participating in DevDays 2026 in Athens this year and are thrilled with the impressions we've gathered so far. We are especially pleased that Dries, the founder of Drupal, is attending this relatively small event for the first time. His presence lends DevDays a special significance, as he is usually seen on much larger stages.
Many discussions revolve around key future topics for the digital world. One focus is on data sovereignty, i.e., how organizations and individuals can retain control over their own data. Artificial intelligence was also discussed extensively in this context, from various perspectives. The opportunities, risks, and problematic aspects that cannot be ignored were all addressed. This nuanced approach leads to stimulating discussions and new ideas.
Another important topic is the future of Drupal itself. The platform is constantly evolving and becoming increasingly user-friendly, especially for people without a technical background. Nevertheless, one key challenge remains: many potential users are simply not yet familiar with Drupal. Therefore, we are intensively exploring how to better position and market the system without losing its strengths as a flexible open-source framework.
For Sascha, the DevDays are also a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with other Drupal experts. Many of these contacts are only made at such events. Together, they work on complex issues, develop ideas further, and gain new perspectives. This personal exchange is irreplaceable and contributes significantly to deepening one's knowledge and developing innovative solutions.