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ARTICLE · 29 APRIL 2021

United Nations Working Group Approves Cybersecurity Report: What Is It And What Are The Implications?

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On 12 March 2021, the United Nations Open-ended Working Group ("OEWG"), established by General Assembly Resolution 73/27 and consisting of all United Nations Member States, adopted by consensus...

United StatesTechnology
Christina G. Hioureas
Christina G. Hioureas
Colin Zick
Colin Zick
Christopher E. Hart
Christopher E. Hart
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On 12 March 2021, the United Nations Open-ended Working Group ("OEWG"), established by General Assembly Resolution 73/27 and consisting of all United Nations Member States, adopted by consensus its Final Substantive Report on cybersecurity ("Report"). Adopted against the background of the COVID-19 pandemic and noting the need to protect healthcare and informational infrastructure,1 the Report provides recommendations for peaceful use of information and communications technologies ("ICTs") and has been heralded as "the first time that a process open to all countries has led to agreement on international cybersecurity."2

While not legally binding, the Report provides a foundation for future negotiations on the progressive development of international law in connection with cybersecurity.3 It acknowledges areas of consensus and makes recommendations for future cooperation, including:

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