UN Releases Report on First International Cybersecurity Agreement

Cybercrime has moved beyond the realm of small-time hackers looking for a quick payout. In fact, independent research from the University of Surrey indicates a 100 percent rise in cyber warfare conducted by nation states.

In response, the United Nations released a report in March that establishes guidelines for UN member states to follow when handling cybersecurity. The foundation of the agreement is predicated on the concept of peaceful use of information and communications technologies, and is really more of a starting point in an ongoing dialogue about how to handle cybersecurity as a global community.

While the report is not legally binding, it is groundbreaking in that it’s the first international cybersecurity agreement of its kind, and is the first step in a legally binding agreement for UN member states down the road. That said, the report acknowledges that a universal regulation of ICTs is difficult, as many international laws already regulate ICTs. As with any other UN measure, it will be difficult to execute any guidelines or future laws created by General Assembly Resolution 73/27, as UN measures may not interfere with the sovereignty of any member state.

Still, the report is worth noting for its thought leadership, and should be viewed as a harbinger of trends. Here are some if its key takeaways:

Threats are Increasing

The reports concludes that malicious ICTs are on the rise. In other words, hacking is becoming a big problem and is threatening global peace and security, as well as human rights.

Guidelines are Needed

Though any participation in the UN is technically voluntary, that doesn’t make the peacekeeping body ineffective. The same holds true for current and future guidelines on cybersecurity. Though the full scope of the guidelines has yet to be determined, the UN has determined that establishing guidelines around cybersecurity can mitigate risks to international peace and security.

More Information is Needed

The report establishes that states will inform the UN Secretary General of evolving views on international ICT law.

Transparency is a Must

Member states have agreed to continue to build trust with each other by sharing data and relevant learnings about cybersecurity.

Standardized Infrastructure

Member states agreed to build protocols and tools to handle cybersecurity threats. These tools and protocols must be built with apolitical, evidence-based methods, and must be built with “respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms, gender sensitivity, inclusivity, and non-discrimination, as well as respect for confidentiality of sensitive information.”

An Ongoing Conversation

UN member states have agreed to a continuing dialogue.

To read the full text of the UN’s report, click here.