On 20 February 2025, on the margins of the 10th substantive session of the UN Open-Ended Working Group on the Security of and in the Use of ICTs (2021–2025), the European Union (EU), together with the European Union Institute for Security Studies (EUISS) and the Inter-American Committee against Terrorism (CICTE) of the Organization of American States (OAS), hosted an Informal Interregional Dialogue between their respective Member States at UN Headquarters in New York. The dialogue focused on the guiding principles and critical elements of a permanent United Nations (UN) mechanism on information and communications technologies (ICT) security.
In light of the discussion paper circulated by the Chair of the UN Open-Ended Working Group on the Security of and in the Use of ICTs (2021–2025), outlining draft elements related to stakeholder modalities and thematic working groups for a future permanent UN mechanism, the dialogue aimed to foster constructive engagement between EU and OAS Member States. The session provided a platform for exchanging views on the guiding principles, scope, and structure of a proposed open-ended, action-oriented permanent UN mechanism on ICT security in the context of international peace and security.
Participants examined lessons learned from existing mechanisms, shared regional perspectives, and discussed operational pathways for institutionalising regular international dialogue on cybersecurity. The event supported efforts to identify areas of convergence, clarify shared priorities, and generate practical recommendations to inform and guide upcoming UN negotiations.
By fostering interregional collaboration and open exchange, the dialogue contributed to shaping a more inclusive, effective, and forward-looking global cybersecurity governance framework.
