At the UN Security Council Open Debate on “Addressing Evolving Threats in Cyberspace” held in New York on June 25, 2024, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible behaviour in cyberspace. Omran Sharaf, UAE’s Assistant Foreign Minister of Advanced Science and Technology, represented the nation and highlighted the need for international cooperation to ensure that cyberspace remains a realm of peace and security. Sharaf emphasized four key considerations for the Security Council to address the growing cyber threats that have the potential to destabilize global peace.
The UAE, recognized as a global hub for technology and cybersecurity, continues to spearhead initiatives to foster a secure digital transformation, not only within its borders but also by encouraging global cooperation.
In the face of evolving digital threats, the UAE urged for a more structured international approach to cybersecurity during the UN Security Council meeting. With cyberattacks increasing in sophistication and scale, it is crucial for nations to collaborate and address this pressing issue. Omran Sharaf articulated four primary considerations for the Security Council to help countries adopt responsible cyber practices:
- International Law Governing Cyber Technologies:
Sharaf stressed that international law must govern the use of cyber technologies to prevent conflicts in the digital sphere. Nations need to adhere to existing legal frameworks and continuously update them to reflect the rapidly changing digital landscape. - Mainstreaming Cybersecurity in Peace and Security Efforts:
Integrating cyber concerns into the Council’s work on global peace and security was a key point raised by the UAE. Cybersecurity is increasingly intertwined with national security, and ignoring this domain could lead to vulnerabilities that threaten global stability. - Annual Briefing on Emerging Technology Threats:
Sharaf proposed that the Security Council hold annual briefings on emerging cyber threats, allowing nations to stay informed about the latest developments and strategize accordingly. This would facilitate a proactive approach to addressing the risks posed by new technologies. - Public-Private Partnerships:
The UAE underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in countering cyber threats. By leveraging the expertise and resources of private companies, governments can develop more sophisticated cybersecurity tools. Collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors are essential for creating a secure digital environment.
During the debate, the UAE also highlighted its domestic efforts to enhance cybersecurity. The Cyber Security Council, established in 2020, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s cybersecurity posture, ensuring that critical sectors such as health, finance, and energy are protected from potential cyberattacks. This council also aims to safeguard the nation’s infrastructure while enabling a safer digital transformation.
Assistant Foreign Minister Sharaf also met with Tobias Lindner, German Minister of State, during the sidelines of the debate. The two officials discussed potential areas of cooperation in emerging science and technology, exploring opportunities to advance cybersecurity collaborations between the UAE and Germany.
10 Tips to Strengthen Cybersecurity and Encourage Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace:
- Adopt Strong Passwords and MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication): Ensure that all accounts use strong, unique passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
- Promote Cyber Hygiene Education: Educate individuals, especially children and employees, about the importance of secure online behaviour, including identifying phishing attempts and avoiding suspicious links.
- Update Software Regularly: Always keep operating systems, applications, and cybersecurity tools up to date to patch vulnerabilities that attackers may exploit.
- Develop Incident Response Plans: Establish comprehensive incident response plans for organizations to ensure quick and effective action in the event of a cyber breach.
- Strengthen International Cooperation: Governments should collaborate with other nations to share threat intelligence and collectively combat global cyberattacks.
- Implement Secure Data Transmission Protocols: Use encryption and other secure communication protocols to protect sensitive data from interception or tampering.
- Enhance Critical Infrastructure Protection: Ensure that key sectors like finance, energy, and healthcare are prioritized and fortified against cyberattacks.
- Regular Cybersecurity Audits: Conduct frequent audits to detect and rectify potential weaknesses in networks, systems, and applications.
- Encourage Public-Private Collaboration: Governments and private entities should work together to leverage the latest cybersecurity technologies and foster innovation in defending against cyber threats.
- Promote Ethical Technology Use: Support initiatives that encourage ethical behaviour in the digital world, ensuring that technologies are developed and used responsibly.
Conclusion:
As cyber threats continue to evolve, international cooperation is essential in ensuring the safe and responsible use of technology. The UAE’s leadership in promoting cybersecurity during the UN Security Council meeting is a testament to the nation’s commitment to creating a secure digital future, both locally and globally. By emphasizing the importance of responsible cyber behaviour, integrating cybersecurity into global peace efforts, and fostering public-private partnerships, the UAE is paving the way for a more secure digital environment.
In a world increasingly reliant on digital technologies, it is imperative that countries adopt proactive measures to safeguard cyberspace. With the UAE Cyber Security Council working diligently on strengthening national and international cybersecurity policies, the UAE remains at the forefront of ensuring a safer digital world for all.
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