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Cyber Arms Control

How we manage and reduce the challenges and threats posed by cyber is one of the most significant security discussions of our time. Every aspect of our daily lives and even the weapons we use to defend ourselves are at risk from cyber threats. This paper elaborates on the possibility of having cyber arms control and how it should look like.

Although the cyber problem’s nature is not fully fleshed out and may seem challenging to construct solutions, I believe that cyber arms control is possible and is necessary in the current times. The March 2003 Iraq invasion by the USA, where the USA cut-off Iraqi computer networks and the internet grid in a bid to undermine the military defenses and the political regime before the invasion (Eilstrup-Sangiovanni, 2018), is an example of why cyber arms control is needed. This proves that countries with capable and modern information and communication technology (ICT) can easily inflict serious political, economic, and even material harm on enemies.

A set of principles should govern the structuring of cyber control. First, we should not assume that cyber control is similar to the nuclear realm and tries to borrow lessons. Cyber arms control should be based on a different framework since the implications are quite different (Futter, 2020). Second, cyber arms control should involve a blend of formal and informal mechanisms for various issues. In case the problem consists of legal binding, the formal mechanisms can be applied. However, some digital problems are not codified in official treaties and may require informal ways to build trust and confidence to resolve.

Lastly, cyber arms control should be focused on dealing with single issues rather than being based on broad and general agreements. The most promising way forward for cyber arms control would be to zero down to specific areas, problems, and issues rather than viewing it as a single problem and trying to resolve it in one go. This would entail having realistic and informal discussions with states on what they are willing to give up before controlling the cyber realm. On a higher notch, deterrence by punishment and denial should be enforced (Brantly, 2018). This will ensure that states are accountable for their cyber actions.

In summary, the cyber domain is a challenging sector to streamline. Therefore, cyber arms may seem impossible, but with the essential policy tools and collaboration from all states, this can be achieved.

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