European Cyber Security Policy within a Global Multistakeholder Structure

Abstract

This article outlines the challenges facing the promotion of safety on the Internet, traces the institutional structures for European cyber security policy, identifies the key principles of organization, and compares roughly these European developments to US cyber security strategy, policy, and organizations. European cyber security policy is formulated and implemented in a multi-level and multistakeholder structure. Not only is there a separation between domestic and foreign policy, but also politically relevant divisions of competences and responsibilities for legislative and executive powers, as well as private and public spheres. As cyber security policy is a regulatory area that shapes the informational self-determination of citizens, any regulatory action - even every institutional development - must seek to achieve a balance between security and individual liberties.