European Union’s Cyber Security Policies in the Context of A Developing and Changing Security Perception

Abstract

Despite being a relatively recent development, cyberspace has become an integral part of human lives due to rapid technological advancements. It functions as a fifth dimension in addition to the four traditional domains where states exercise sovereign powers: land, air, sea, and space. Unlike these physical spaces, cyberspace lacks physical and geographical boundaries, displaying a dynamic and continuously evolving nature. This fundamental characteristic complicates the definition of sovereignty in cyberspace, posing unique challenges to the traditional concept of sovereignty. Another important point to consider is that cyber operations can be conducted anonymously, often without cost or risk to the perpetrators. This anonymity creates legal challenges because it prevents the attribution of these operations to a specific person, organization, or government. The cyber security strategies and policies developed by the EU both internally and in cooperation with other international organizations are important in overcoming the aforementioned legal difficulties. The main purpose of this study is to analyse in detail the EU's cybersecurity policies within the scope of the identified problems related to the new security perceptions that have emerged due to the latest technological developments.