Defending Democracy in the Cyberspace: Jessica Berlin’s Vision for Collective Cybersecurity

- By Augustin Kurian

Jessica Berlin’s expertise extends beyond traditional geopolitics; she also wields influence in the realm of digital warfare. During a recent session in Helsinki, she spoke to The Cyber Express, discussing the Ukraine-Russian conflict and its implications on cyberspace. This further solidifies her standing as an expert not only in conventional geopolitics but also in the ever- growing sphere of cyber conflict.

By delving into the complex web of cyber warfare, Jessica offers her insights on the dynamics of the situation and how it continues to transform the cyberspace landscape.

This recent session underscores Jessica’s versatile expertise and her ability to analyze and discuss pressing international issues in a sophisticated and accessible manner.

As conflicts and strategies evolve in the 21st century, Jessica Berlin remains at the forefront of thought leadership, shedding light on the shifting contours of geopolitics and cyber warfare.

National Security and Cybersecurity

The Cyber Express began the interview by noting Berlin’s emphasis on the idea that cybersecurity is, at its core, a matter of national security. However, we pointed out that there seems to be a concerning lack of seriousness and understanding surrounding this issue in many countries. Berlin acknowledged this problem but noted some progress.

While many nations have come to realize the seriousness of cyber threats, Berlin stressed the challenge remains in finding effective ways to combat them. She referenced various threats ranging from the spread of disinformation on social media, to more aggressive attacks on infrastructure, political parties, and individual politicians. She emphasized that, while awareness has increased, defensive efforts against these threats remain largely insufficient worldwide.

The Need for Private Sector Involvement

According to Berlin, one key solution lies in increasing involvement from the private sector. She believes that private sector actors, who often possess a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of cybersecurity, should step up to take the lead in defense against cyber threats.

However, she noticed a lack of collaboration among cybersecurity companies, which often compete with each other for clients and projects. Berlin stressed that these companies need to find a mechanism for collaboration, particularly on the issue of defending democracy and the public information space.

Towards a Cybersecurity Task Force

Berlin proposed the creation of a cybersecurity task force, a coalition of cybersecurity companies willing to work together on this critical issue. She outlined a scenario where private sector players can contribute their resources and technical capacities to create a prototype of defense against cyber threats.

Once established, this prototype could then be presented to the public sector, along with an initial budget and expected outcomes, essentially paving the way for long-term public financing.

The Role of Regulation and the EU

Berlin praised the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as a pivotal step in protecting privacy worldwide. She suggested that the EU could also be a leader in creating a regulatory, financial, and legal structure to safeguard cyberspace, following the lead of the private sector.

Disinformation Campaigns and the Ukraine Conflict

The interview touched on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and how it has been influenced by disinformation campaigns and cyber warfare. Berlin expressed her concerns about the ramifications of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, noting that the situation should serve as a wake-up call for the international community. She warned against the dangers of ignorance, naivety, and corruption that have allowed such situations to occur.

She stressed the need for a thorough investigation to understand and hold accountable those who have been complicit in such crises. Berlin also argued for more competent individuals to take charge of national security policies, highlighting that many of those who made critical mistakes are still in positions of power.

The Way Forward

Throughout the interview, Jessica Berlin underscored the urgent need for collaborative efforts to protect against growing cyber threats. She emphasized that while awareness of these threats has increased, there is still a long way to go in implementing effective defense mechanisms.

Berlin’s vision of a collaborative cybersecurity task force, led by the private sector but supported by public sector financing and regulation, may pave the way for a more secure cyberspace, one capable of safeguarding our democracies, our infrastructures, and our national securities.

Increasing Cyberattacks & the Urgency for Proactive Measures

Berlin expounded on the escalating state of cyber warfare. With a sharp increase in cyberattacks by Russian supporters against allied countries, the situation underlines an urgent need for a concerted approach to address this issue.

Berlin illustrates the current predicament by drawing a parallel to an unguarded home, “The fact that we left the door open, and then we’re surprised that robbers came in and stole our stuff and trashed the house. Well, you did leave the door open... what did we expect?” Her emphasis is clear - if no action is taken to counter these threats, we cannot plead ignorance in the face of future, more damaging cyberattacks.

The Long Game: How Authoritarian Regimes Profit

In the comparison of strategic advantages, Berlin notes that authoritarian regimes often have the upper hand due to the absence of election cycle concerns. This lack of distraction allows them to devise and execute long-term strategies. Conversely, democratic societies juggle multiple interests, with a constant eye on upcoming elections. This dynamic can hamper their capacity to implement effective, longterm security strategies.

Berlin sees the solution in the form of strategic partnerships with the private sector. Harnessing their agility and innovative drive could lead to a swift development of robust cyber defense mechanisms.

No Neutrality in Conflict: A Call to Individual Action

Berlin’s central message was encapsulated by a quote from Nobel Peace Prize laureate Elie Wiesel, “neutrality only benefits the aggressor.” She underscored that silence, or neutrality, never aids the victim but instead enables the oppressor.

She urged individuals to reject the notion of neutrality in conflicts like these. Even minor acts of support, like speaking out on social media or making a small donation, can have a considerable cumulative impact. Berlin believes that these collective expressions of support for Ukraine can significantly influence the political sphere, reinforcing governments’ awareness that people genuinely care.

The Future of International Cybersecurity

Jessica Berlin’s views point to an impending need for collaborative, comprehensive cybersecurity measures that combine public sector oversight and private sector dynamism.

Given the escalating cyber threats, it’s crucial to develop strategies that protect the democratic interests of nations. In this endeavor, each individual’s contribution - in action and voice - can have a profound impact on shaping the course of international relations and cybersecurity.

The way forward

In the interconnected digital landscape, cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought. It is a critical element of national security, given the increasing dependency on digital systems. However, the intangible nature of cyber threats has led to a significant lack of understanding and mitigation.

A call to action is noted for enhanced international cooperation against cyber threats. As an international security concern, it requires a collective response involving the formation of a global cybersecurity taskforce. This would mean not only sharing intelligence but also aligning legal and regulatory frameworks to punish cyber criminals.

On a societal level, the importance of education and awareness in establishing a culture of cybersecurity is underscored. With human ignorance or complacency often exploited in cyber threats, an educated society practicing good cyber hygiene can form a significant line of defense.

An escalating, pervasive cyber war is noted in the global arena, transcending geographical boundaries to impact governments, corporations, and individuals. The prevalent stance of neutrality amidst this silent warfare can be dangerous, potentially leading to destabilization and chaos in the global digital ecosystem.

The concept of cyber diplomacy is emphasized, highlighting the role of forging alliances and understanding. It bridges the digital divide between developed and developing nations, equipping the latter with knowledge and resources to defend against cyber attacks.

Corporations are urged to participate actively in this digital battle, integrating robust cybersecurity measures and contributing to information sharing. As significant stakeholders in the digital realm, they can make a substantial impact on the global cybersecurity landscape.

This view of cybersecurity presents a world on the brink of a digital revolution where cybersecurity isn’t an option, but an absolute necessity.

The focus on global collaboration and corporate involvement, coupled with an educated populace, lays the groundwork for securing our digital future. It highlights the urgency of the situation, prompting a shift from neutrality to proactive action. The overall message is clear: only through collective action can we counter the escalating threats in cyberspace effectively.