European Union Sets Up Emergency Response Fund To Tackle Cyber Attacks

JAKARTA – Telecommunications ministers from 27 European Union countries want the European Commission to establish a cybersecurity emergency response fund to counter large-scale cyber attacks. This was necessary after seeing the recent attacks on Ukraine.

The EU ministers will meet in the French city of Nevers on Wednesday, March 9 to discuss cybersecurity attacks that have continued to spread after Russia invaded Ukraine.

"The possible spillover effect of such a cyberattack on European networks also highlights the need for the EU to move forward with an ambitious and comprehensive plan for its cybersecurity", the draft document said, quoted by Reuters.

"The current geopolitical landscape and its impact on cyberspace reinforce the need for the EU to be fully prepared for large-scale cyber attacks. Such funds would directly contribute to this goal", the report said.

The ministers also called for more regulations to secure digital infrastructure, technology, and products, and attracted companies to provide their expertise in strengthening cybersecurity.