Cyber diplomacy requires professionals who can operate at the intersection of technology, international law, public policy and operational cybersecurity while continuously adapting to an evolving threat landscape and disruptive emerging technologies. Developing this multidisciplinary skill set is essential for building trusted international partnerships and strengthening global cyber resilience.

Please tell us why you decided to attend the Summer School, what appealed to you the most and how you hope to use this knowledge in the future?

At the international level, Cyber 4.0 has significantly expanded its role in cyber capacity building and strengthened its participation in international networks. As a result, cyber diplomacy, capacity building and international cooperation have become key pillars of the Centre’s growth strategy and an integral part of its mission. 

I decided to attend the EU CyberNet Summer School to deepen my expertise in cyber diplomacy, as my role involves managing international initiatives across different geographical regions. I believe that investing in advanced education in this field is essential to strengthening Europe’s long-term cyber resilience. 

Cyber diplomacy requires professionals who can operate at the intersection of technology, international law, public policy and operational cybersecurity while continuously adapting to an evolving threat landscape and disruptive emerging technologies. Developing this multidisciplinary skill set is essential for building trusted international partnerships and strengthening global cyber resilience. Initiatives, such as the Summer School, play a vital role in preparing a new generation of professionals capable of translating international commitments into practical cooperation, concrete actions and tangible results. 

At Cyber 4.0, we strongly believe that investing in capacity building and promoting dialogue among governments, industry, academia and civil society are essential to addressing these challenges effectively.

What do you think are the current challenges in cyber diplomacy? How are they related to cybersecurity and what are the most pressing issues in your daily work?

Cyber diplomacy is facing increasingly complex challenges as geopolitical tensions intensify, and cyberspace becomes a strategic domain for international competition. The growing fragmentation of the global landscape makes it more difficult to build consensus on norms, confidence-building measures and responsible state behaviour in cyberspace. 

At the same time, a significant gap remains in cyber-related knowledge and technical understanding among many diplomats and policymakers. This can limit their ability to address highly technical issues with far-reaching political and security implications. 

These challenges are closely linked to cybersecurity, as diplomatic decisions increasingly influence international stability, resilience and cooperation against cyber threats. At Cyber 4.0, we strongly believe that investing in capacity building and promoting dialogue among governments, industry, academia and civil society are essential to addressing these challenges effectively. 

From your perspective as a stakeholder in the EU CyberNet, what do you expect EU CyberNet to provide or facilitate?

EU CyberNet plays a strategic role in strengthening international cybersecurity cooperation by bringing together experts, institutions and stakeholders from different regions of the world. 

I believe it should continue facilitating meaningful exchanges among professionals by promoting the sharing of knowledge, practical experience and best practices. By fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer across countries and sectors, EU CyberNet can further strengthen cyber capacity building, support trusted international partnerships and contribute to the development of more coherent and sustainable cybersecurity initiatives. 

What’s one thing that’s stuck with you from this year’s Summer School?

Two aspects particularly stood out to me. First, the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives among the participants who came from different regions of the world and brought a wide range of professional experiences. Second, I appreciated the excellent balance between theoretical insights and hands-on practical sessions. This combination created a highly engaging learning environment that encouraged meaningful discussions, collaborative problem-solving and a deeper understanding of cybersecurity challenges through diverse professional and cultural perspectives. 

Background

EU CyberNet Summer School 2026, titled “Cyber Diplomacy: From Norms to Actions – Governing Cyberspace in a Fractured World” was organised by EU CyberNet in partnership with EU Cyber Direct, and Cyber 4.0 with expertise from the European External Action Service at the European University Institute in Florence, Italy from 29 to 31 July 2026. Summer School 2026 was led by Isabella Brunner (EU CyberNet instructor),  Andrea Calderaro (EU Cyber Direct, European Union Institute for Security Studies – EUISS) and Michal Aendenhof (European Union External Action Service – EEAS) . Read more here.