Security threats more frequently move to the Cyber domain. Geopolitical tensions, war and conflict are not just physical manifestations but also take place in the digital world. In this context, the concepts ‘Cyber security’ and ‘Cyber warfare’ are often mentioned, but what do we mean by them?

This question was thoroughly discussed in one of the sessions in the course on International Poilitics (CIP) organised by Clingendael Academy.  Brigadier-General and Professor for Cyber Operations and Cyber Security at the Netherlands Defence Academy, Paul Ducheine, gave a one and a half our lecture on the topic.

Governments, businesses and civilians can all be hit by a digital attack, which could have a lot of consequences on the lives of individuals and society in general.  The costs of those attacks are often lower than the costs of physical, military action. This is just one of the reasons why digital attacks are an attractive alternative to conventional military and espionage activities. Mr. Ducheine discussed the ways in which governments take military action in this – quite often unclear – framework.

The meeting on Cyber security and Cyber warfare is part of the CIP module on International Security. In this module we also discussed the rise of Islamic State (IS) in the Middle East and the role of Iran in the region. Clingendael director Ko Colijn lectured on the broader trends in the field of international security.

In addition to the theme ‘International Security’ the CIP pays attention to three other themes: ‘Power shifts in global politics’, ‘EU’ and ‘Climate and Energy’.  Interested in following the CIP yourself? Please consult our course' webpage for new dates in 2016. Or contact the course coordinator Sander Streefkerk.
 

- 28 October 2015