Statement by Representative of Slovenia to the UN Security Council Ambassador Samuel Žbogar at the Arria-formula Meeting on Cyber Security, “Evolving Cyber Threat Landscape and its Implications for the Maintenance of International Peace and Security“

Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

I extend my gratitude to the Republic of Korea, the United States, and Japan for hosting today’s Arria-formula meeting.

I would also like to thank the briefers of today, Mr. Ebo, Dr Geiss, and Ms. Kennedy. Thank you very much for your insightful briefings.

Madam Chair,

Allow me to address two points pertinent to the topic of today’s meeting.

First, on the emerging trends of malicious activities in cyberspace.

It is our view that having an accurate understanding of the cyber threat landscape is paramount for a discussion about cooperative measures that the international community can take in response to malicious cyber activities.

In this respect, we commend the ongoing work of the dedicated UN Open-ended Working Group.

At the same time, it is important to highlight that the cyber threat landscape is constantly evolving.

For instance, use of ransomware, along with threats to critical infrastructure vital for civilian life, among others, can now be seen as posing additional challenges to international peace and security, and as such it deserves the attention of the Security Council.

Of further importance are threats to democracy manifested in manipulation of democratic processes. This is especially critical in the “super election year” 2024 when almost half of the world population will go to the polls.

Simultaneously, Artificial Intelligence is acting as a potential accelerator of all threats in the cyber domain. It possesses the capability to broaden the accessibility of advanced cyber tools and techniques, thereby extending their reach to a broader spectrum of both State and non-State actors. As such, it deserves special attention and enhanced international cooperation.

Secondly, Madam Chair,

Regarding the role of the Security Council in addressing cyber threats.

The Council bears the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security.

To fulfil its responsibility, the Council should engage in the consideration of cyber threats to peace.

Malicious cyber activities, such as those that generate revenue supporting the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or those that target critical civilian infrastructure, including satellite networks, have the potential to endanger the security of citizens and thus pose a threat to international peace and security.

Given their cross-border nature, addressing such threats necessitates multilateral cooperation.

In our view, the Council should address incidents in which malicious cyber activities exacerbate conflict, just as the Council would have reacted to threats posed by conventional means. Similarly, it should address activities that incite violence against civilian populations, cause humanitarian suffering, or affect the work of humanitarian organizations.

In an era marked by the growing digitalization of conflicts, it is crucial to emphasize that international law, in particular the Charter of the UN, as well as International humanitarian and human rights law, is applicable to cyberspace and must be respected.

Madam Chair,

Allow me to conclude by assuring you of our unwavering commitment to collaborate with the Council members and the broader UN membership in continuing discussions on cyber threats that are of shared concern to international peace and security.

Thank you.

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