ICSOC 2020 continues the tradition that began with the first symposium in Trento, Italy, in 2003 and has since traveled the world. But this year is different. The global pandemic prevents us from meeting in person as usual – this time it should have been in Dubai. This year’s event is extraordinary in two ways. First, it will demonstrate the power of digital to bring us all together now in these unprecedented conditions. Second, it will be the largest ICSOC ever, with more than 400 registered participants from around the world. 

Let us express our sincere gratitude to the conference organizing team led by Hakim Hacid and to our true community who have helped to create this stunning scientific conference programme in the face of extreme adversity.