The Evolving Dynamics of Cyberspace | Global Cybersecurity Forum

The Global Cybersecurity Forum’s plenary session, titled ‘The Changing Landscape of Cyberspace: Assessing The Landscape Of Changing Strategic Priorities In Cyberspace‘ took place in Riyadh, hosting a notable panel of experts comprising Jose Manuel Barroso, Kersti Kaljulaid, and Ambassador Shyam Saran. These esteemed individuals were invited to contribute their vast expertise and perspectives on public policy and governance within the realm of cyberspace. Here are the key takeaways from the session.

Jose Manuel Barroso, drawing from his extensive experience as the former President of the European Commission and Prime Minister of Portugal, emphasised the critical need for comprehensive and effective regulations to address the growing threats posed by cyberterrorism and cybercrime. In his address, he stressed the necessity of fostering collaborative frameworks both at the national and international levels to combat these pressing challenges. Barroso highlighted the imperative of sharing best practices among governments, underscoring the significance of cohesive global efforts in safeguarding the security of our interconnected world.

Kersti Kaljulaid, the former President of the Republic of Estonia, shed light on the pioneering efforts of her country in prioritising cybersecurity as an integral component of its national security strategy. Kaljulaid emphasised Estonia’s proactive measures, ranging from significant investments in IT infrastructure to comprehensive public awareness campaigns. She also underscored the critical role of robust public-private partnerships in ensuring the resilience of a nation’s digital landscape. One key point raised was the increasing threat of AI in military systems and cybersecurity. Kaljulaid highlighted the potential harm that AI worms could cause to military systems, as well as the planting of false data. 

Ambassador Shyam Saran, the former Foreign Secretary of India, provided valuable insights into the geopolitical dimensions of cyberspace and their profound implications for national sovereignty. Saran emphasised the significance of international cooperation and the adherence to established norms to foster an open, secure, and trustworthy cyberspace. Stressing the drawbacks of competitive frameworks, he advocated for a collaborative approach that can yield more effective outcomes in tackling the intricate challenges of cybersecurity. Ambassador Shyam Saran also highlighted the challenges of regulating rapid technological advancements. It became evident that bridging the gap between policymakers, decision-makers, and the swift pace of technological innovation remains a significant hurdle in developing comprehensive regulations capable of keeping pace with the dynamic digital landscape.

The Digital Watch Observatory will provide just-in-time reporting from the GCF, leveraging our AI-driven App. Visit our dedicated page for all the latest insights and reports. We look forward to engaging with you throughout GCF 2023 as we collectively chart the shared priorities in cyberspace.