“Even a small group of bad people can carry out massive attacks in the cyberspace,” said President Karis. “Estonia has been very successful in the development of the opportunities of a digital state, but this rapid development also means that we have to pay more attention to cybersecurity and education.”
The head of state emphasised that the existing international law is effective also in the cyberspace and there is no need to create new norms. The conclusion reached in the discussion was that states are responsible for the implementation of the effective rules, the identification of those who ignore the rules, and holding them accountable if necessary. It’s important that states give considerably more attention to cybersecurity, which requires excellent coordination and planning at the national level. It was also noted that good international cooperation is extremely important in catching cybercriminals.
Estonia has hosted the first cybersecurity discussion in the UN Security Council to raise everyone’s awareness of new threats to security.
The other participants in the panel discussion in addition to President Karis were Chief Legal Officer of Microsoft Brad Smith; Chairman of the UN Open-Ended Working Group on Cybersecurity, Ambassador Burhan Gafoor; US Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology Anne Neuberger.
