RUSI Event: Cyber Diplomacy and Emerging Technology

Governments are seeking to balance the resilience and security of their communications and technology infrastructure, as well as reaping the benefits of investment in emerging technology. While the advantages of new technology are clear, they do raise a series of cyber security concerns and highlight the challenges which arise if other states end up playing a key role in national infrastructure. 

Early this year, Australia launched its International Cyber and Critical Technology Engagement Strategy. The Strategy provides a framework guiding Australia’s whole-of-government international engagement across the spectrum of cyber and critical technology issues, by setting out practical actions the country will take to protect and promote its cyber and critical technology interests. 

Meanwhile, the UK’s Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy sets out an ambition for the UK to be a ‘responsible and democratic cyber power’ and a world leader in new technology. In doing so, it acknowledges the need for a ‘whole-of-cyber’ approach that includes critical technology and international action to promote a free, open, peaceful and secure cyberspace. The UK is due to publish its new National Cyber Strategy later this year.  

Join us for a discussion with Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Dr Tobias Feakin, and Will Middleton, Cyber Director at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. They will explore the policy challenges relating to critical infrastructure, cyber security, values and norms for technology and cyberspace, and the need for international cooperation, drawing on the UK and Australia’s approaches.  

The event will be chaired by Professor Madeline Carr from UCL.