UNSC High-Level Open Debate on “Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Addressing Evolving Threats in Cyberspace,”

[Thursday, 20 June 2024, 1000 hrs]

Statement by Ambassador R. Ravindra, Charge d'Affaires & Deputy Permanent Representative

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`Thank you, Mr. President. I congratulate Republic of Korea for the Presidency of the month June, and welcome this initiative of an open debate on ‘Addressing the Evolving Threats in Cyberspace’. I also thank Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and representatives of civil society for their insights.

2. Today’s world is of digital age. Digital transformation has transcended all conventional geographical, political and economic boundaries. With the rapid advancements and adoption of new and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, our lives have become increasingly intertwined with the digital realm. In this interconnected world, from personal communication to critical infrastructure, the reliance on cyberspace is profound.

3. The digital transformation has also exposed us to a myriad of cyber threats. Cyber attacks against critical infrastructure, information and financial systems, and government networks are increasing in frequency and sophistication. The cryptocurrency heist, data hijacking, deep fakes, misinformation and incitements are commonplace now. Further, the potential of Artificial Intelligence to add scope and scale to cyber-attacks is also notable.

4. The integrity and security of ICT products, which form the building blocks of cyber space, are being compromised. These acts are committed by both state-sponsored and non-state actors, as well as transnational crime networks. Such nefarious acts undermine trust and confidence in global ICT supply chains, compromise security and create potential flash points between States. According to World Bank estimates, cyber-attacks could have caused losses of around $5.2 trillion to the world during 2019-2023.

5. Terrorists are also finding new ways through cyber space to perpetrate violence; radicalize youth; recruitment; training and raise financial resources. New methods in the form of virtual assets and crypto currency are becoming a norm in financial transactions by terrorists. Terrorism is exploiting new channels and new funding methods from the cyber world, making it a critical issue for the security and prosperity of every nation. India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades, and we are cognizant of the serious nature of the cyber terrorism challenge.

6. In this context, let me highlight four points:

i) The threats in cyberspace have the potential not only to jeopardize national security but also to undermine the very fabric of global stability and cooperation. No single country or organization can combat cyber threats alone – it requires a united front.

ii) There is a growing need for international instruments to address threats from cyber space. Current international law is not well positioned to support responses to cyber attacks. Cyber attacks against critical infrastructure, information and financial systems, and government networks should be treated as terror attacks. The applicability of existing anti-terrorism treaties to the cyber domain should be considered.

iii) The international community should achieve uniformity in counter-cyber crime laws. Global cooperation in this area will help in harmonizing cyber security benchmarks, best practices, and regulations.

iv) India has been participating in UN-mandated cyber processes and consultations that support a global, inclusive and transparent intergovernmental participation with the objective of realizing a safe and secure cyberspace. We believe a multi-stakeholder collaboration is essential to be informed of and understand the emerging threats in cyber space.

Mr. President,

7. India is among the world’s leaders in advancing digital technology, connectivity, and resilience. India is committed to an open, secure, free, accessible and stable cyberspace environment. India will continue to work with the global community to tackle cyber threats and ensure that the digital revolution continues to benefit humanity without compromising our collective well-being and stability. Thank you.

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