For more than a thousand days, Ukrainians have been fighting tooth and nail to defend their country. The war is taking place not only on the front lines, but also online. December 20 marks the first anniversary of the Tallinn Mechanism. Through the Tallinn Mechanism, the Netherlands is working with other countries on the online security of Ukraine and itself.
When the war began two years ago, Ukraine approached a number of international partners with requests for cyber support. Many countries were willing to provide that support, but until then it was mostly ad hoc: without firm agreements or plans. To better organize aid, the Tallinn Mechanism was established last year.
The Tallinn Mechanism is identifying what Ukraine needs to better protect itself from cyber attacks. Then participating countries and organizations look for ways to help. Examples include stopping cyber attacks or training for experts. In this way, Ukrainian systems can be protected faster and better. The mechanism uses knowledge from governments and companies around the world.
The Netherlands is cooperating in the mechanism with 11 countries: Canada, Denmark, Estonia, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Ukraine itself. Also involved are the European Union, NATO, companies, and NGOs. Each of these parties brings specific knowledge and resources.
Important steps have been taken in the first year of the Tallinn Mechanism. For example, dozens of Ukrainian government agencies and critical infrastructure managers have been helped to improve their digital security. The Mechanism has helped Ukraine with devices and programs that prevent cyber attacks. It has also provided systems that detect and stop malicious software (malware). Support includes, for example, software packages and licenses, or training Ukrainian cybersecurity experts.
In addition, the mechanism gave Ukraine new satellite links. These are very important for keeping vital services running during the war. In total, more than €200 million has been raised through the mechanism to help Ukraine improve its digital security.
The Tallinn Mechanism sends a clear message: Ukraine can count on our full support. Together, we will continue to work to protect Ukraine's important civilian infrastructure from Russian cyber attacks. Such attacks are harmful and go against international laws and agreements. All member countries of the United Nations must abide by them.
Cyber support is therefore an important part of our support to Ukraine. The war in Ukraine shows that cyber attacks are part of warfare in the 21st century. We also feel the consequences of this in the Netherlands. Because we are connected to the entire world via the Internet, cyber attacks in Ukraine are also a danger to the Netherlands and the rest of Europe.
The Netherlands continues to support Ukraine, now and in the future. This war shows how important digital security is for a society. The Tallinn Mechanism is a good example of how countries can work together against digital threats and for a safer Internet for all.
