Publication

This paper focuses on the implications of NATO’s newly adopted Enhanced Cyber Defence Policy, which allows the invocation of Article 5 on collective defense in the event of the most serious cyberattacks. More specifically, the paper's author 1) assesses the threats stemming from online attacks that could be used to destabilize or intimidate NATO countries; 2) contends that although there has never been a report of cyberattacks leading to major disruptions or losses of life, capabilities to undertake such attacks are becoming increasingly advanced; 3) describes the new priorities of NATO's cyber defense policy; and 4) discusses NATO’s cyber defense capabilities and its capacity to deter cyberattacks. Finally, he provides policy recommendations on how NATO can improve its cyber defense.