Jonathan Van Geuns

Jonathan van Geuns is a human rights lawyer, researcher and consultant in international development and public interest work, specialized in AI and data governance, and digital rights and transformation. With extensive experience working with organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, USAID, and multiple UN organizations, he designs governance frameworks and assesses digital ecosystems to drive inclusive and community-driven strategies. His work on participatory governance has explored how communities can meaningfully engage in decision-making around data and AI, challenging extractive models and advocating for equitable governance mechanisms. Jonathan is also actively engaged in digital rights initiatives, where he examines the intersection of governance, human rights, and policy advocacy. His current research on participatory AI governance critiques the risks of ‘participation-washing’ and seeks to develop robust evaluation frameworks to ensure meaningful engagement and systemic impact.