ICSOC 2020 continues the tradition that evolved out of the inaugural symposium held in 2003 in Trento, Italy, and since made its journey through 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 exceptional in a double sense. First, it will demonstrate the power of digital to bring us all together now under these unprecedented conditions. Second, with more than 400 registered participants in the world, it will be the largest ICSOC ever. 

Let us express our sincere thanks to the organizing team of this conference led by Hakim Hacid and to our true community who helped to create this stunning scientific conference program under these extreme adversities.