In an address at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) High-Level Open Debate, Foreign Secretary and High Representative for UNSC Affairs, Robert Persaud, called for heightened accountability, enhanced collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives to combat the rising threats to global cybersecurity.
The debate, convened by the Republic of Korea, focused on the evolving challenges in cyberspace that increasingly jeopardize international peace and security.
The debate, held under the theme “Maintenance of Peace and Security: Addressing Evolving Threats in Cyberspace,” brought together Security Council members to discuss the growing concerns over cyberattacks and to propose measures to mitigate the risks associated with digital threats.
In his address, Persaud emphasized the unprecedented risks that cyber threats pose to various critical aspects of society, including health, safety, security, democracy, and essential services. “The malicious use of digital technologies can have a crippling impact on the core functions of our societies. We must act decisively to establish mechanisms that ensure accountability and oversight to guard against these sophisticated cyber threats,” Persaud stated.
He called for the development of a comprehensive international regulatory framework to oversee cybersecurity, stressing the importance of establishing accountability and regulatory mechanisms. Persaud highlighted the need for interoperability between monitoring, tracking, and investigation systems across states, advocating for a global approach to cybersecurity resilience.
“Building capacity and resilience in cybersecurity is not a task that any nation can achieve in isolation. It requires a concerted effort and collaboration among states. We must prioritize the development of interoperability between our systems to effectively monitor and counter cyber threats,” Persaud remarked.
One of the key points in his address was the call for developed nations to support developing countries that lack the necessary tools and capabilities to counter cyber threats. He proposed the establishment of a global fund dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure and providing training and resources to less technologically equipped nations. “This fund should be viewed not as a mere financial aid but as an investment in our collective security,” Persaud said, emphasizing the importance of viewing cybersecurity as a shared global responsibility.
The debate also saw significant contributions from other Security Council members who echoed the need for greater collaboration and capacity building. Many called for the establishment of an international regulatory framework to promote responsible behavior in cyberspace. This sentiment aligns with the growing recognition that the international community must work together to address the threats posed by the misuse of digital technologies.
Prior to the debate, Foreign Secretary Persaud participated in a media stakeout with His Excellency Mr. Cho Tae-yul, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Korea, and other council members. They collectively reaffirmed their commitment to fostering an open, secure, stable, accessible, and peaceful information and communication technologies (ICTs) environment in compliance with international law.
Over the past decade, the Security Council has increasingly acknowledged the significant implications of cyberspace on international peace and security. Thursday’s debate reaffirmed the need for an international regulatory framework that addresses responsible behaviour in cyberspace.
