Speakers
Synopsis
As geopolitical tensions manifest in the digital realm, cyber strategists are increasingly considering how investments in cybersecurity can be employed to dissuade rather than embolden adversaries. Deterrence—a idea once relegated to the 20th Century—has resurfaced as an attractive (but incomplete) theory to mitigate digital conflict. This presentation seeks to dust the Cold War cobwebs off cyber deterrence and illuminate its potential to help leaders manipulate and signal costs in cyberspace to prevent conflicts before they ignite. Drawing from the traditional concepts of deterrence and the unique attributes of digital warfare, we'll consider the potential of a deterrent strategy as a cornerstone of national, international and organisational security policies.
Central to this discussion will be the exploration of a 'cyber deterrence calculus.' This complex equation balances the technical challenges of attribution, the legal and ethical considerations of proportionality, and the strategic imperatives of national defence. Attendees will engage in an in-depth discourse on how to articulate, establish, and signal 'red lines' in cyberspace—thresholds of behaviour that, when breached, demand calculated responses.
The narrative will delve into the mechanics of operationalising cyber deterrence within the broader landscape of cyber defence. We'll scrutinise the strategic frameworks and policy considerations necessary for implementing effective deterrent measures. Through interactive scenarios and hypothetical responses, we will dissect the delicate balance of power and the art of cyber diplomacy.
The session will advance the dialogue towards a collaborative approach, advocating for the development of an international consensus on cyber norms and the drafting of a deterrence framework that garners universal acceptance. By advancing these initiatives, the presentation will champion a strategic vision that promises digital peace and stability, premised not on the fear of escalation but on the strength of mutual respect and understanding in cyberspace.
