UN Secretary-General António Guterres Emphasises International Cooperation In Cyberspace For Security And Inclusion

During the Global Cybersecurity Forum 2025, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the increasing interconnectedness of the world and the crucial role of cyberspace in fostering innovation and opportunities. He cautioned about existing vulnerabilities that could erode trust, disrupt societies, and threaten peace. Guterres called for collective efforts to ensure cyberspace benefits everyone by investing in people, enhancing skills, and promoting inclusion.

The forum, held in Riyadh under the theme "Scaling Cohesive Advancement in Cyberspace," marked its fifth annual gathering. Guterres emphasized building global partnerships based on solidarity and shared responsibility, ensuring no country or community is left behind. He reiterated the UN's commitment to a vision of cyberspace that is open, secure, and governed by international law.

Guterres stressed that achieving this vision requires empowering all nations to seize opportunities while minimizing risks in cyberspace. He expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for launching the Global Initiative for Capacity Building in Cyberspace. This initiative focuses on issues like child protection and women's empowerment within the digital realm.

The Kingdom's National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), alongside the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE) and the Global Cybersecurity Forum Institute, partnered with the UN to announce this initiative. The Global Cybersecurity Forum Institute was established by Royal Decree in 2023 as an independent body with an international focus.

The Institute oversees two global initiatives led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud: Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) and Women Empowerment in Cybersecurity (WEC). These initiatives aim to unify global stakeholders' efforts through partnerships, cooperation, knowledge exchange, and dialogue among cybersecurity experts.

The focus on child protection and women’s empowerment supports global economic and social development. By advancing these dialogues, the Institute seeks to address cybersecurity challenges related to these critical areas effectively.

Guterres reaffirmed that collective action is vital for cyberspace to serve the common good. Investing in people, building skills, and fostering inclusion are essential steps toward achieving this goal. The UN remains dedicated to advancing its vision of a secure cyberspace grounded in international law.

With inputs from SPA