Global Cyber Conference 2026
The Global Cyber Conference 2026 convenes in Zurich, CHE, bringing together stakeholders to discuss pressing issues in cybersecurity. This event serves as a critical forum for international dialogue on the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the collaborative strategies required to address them. Participants will engage in discussions aimed at fostering greater understanding and cooperation across various sectors.
Committees & topics
United Nations General Assembly Committee
Why it matters
In an increasingly interconnected world, cybersecurity is no longer a niche technical concern but a fundamental aspect of national security, economic stability, and individual privacy. The Global Cyber Conference 2026 provides a platform for leaders and experts to address the multifaceted challenges posed by cyber warfare, cyber espionage, and other digital threats. The outcomes of such conferences often influence policy decisions and international frameworks, making them crucial for shaping the future of global digital governance.
The discussions at this conference are particularly relevant given the escalating sophistication of cyberattacks and the involvement of state and non-state actors. Understanding the motivations and capabilities of various entities, as explored in lessons like "Hidden Stakeholders," is vital for developing effective countermeasures. The conference aims to bridge gaps between different stakeholders, from government agencies and private corporations to academic institutions and civil society organizations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.
How to prepare
Delegates preparing for the Global Cyber Conference 2026 should undertake thorough research into the current cybersecurity postures and strategic interests of key nations. For instance, understanding the cyber capabilities and policies of countries like USA, CHN, RUS, and GBR will be essential for informed participation. Additionally, familiarity with the cybersecurity initiatives and challenges faced by smaller, digitally advanced nations such as EST can offer valuable perspectives.
Effective participation will require a strong grasp of various cybersecurity concepts, including adaptive cyber defense and algorithmic warfare. Delegates should also consider how different nations approach international cooperation on cyber issues, drawing on lessons such as "Engagement Strategies" to formulate their interventions. Preparing to articulate national positions while also seeking common ground for collaborative solutions will be key to maximizing the impact of one's presence at the conference. A "Stakeholder Mapping Workshop" could be beneficial to identify and understand the diverse interests present.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 7 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
SwitzerlandNeutral facilitator and advocate for international cooperation in cybersecurity.
Role in topic
As the host nation, CHE plays a crucial role in providing a neutral ground for international dialogue on cybersecurity. Its long-standing tradition of neutrality and its advanced technological infrastructure position it as an ideal convener for discussions on sensitive global issues. CHE often emphasizes the importance of international law and multilateral approaches to cyber governance.
United StatesProponent of strong cyber defense, international norms, and attribution.
Role in topic
The USA is a major player in global cybersecurity, advocating for robust defense mechanisms, international norms of behavior in cyberspace, and the ability to attribute cyberattacks to their perpetrators. It often leads initiatives to counter cyber threats and collaborates with allies on intelligence sharing and joint operations. The USA's perspective is shaped by its significant digital infrastructure and its experience with state-sponsored cyber espionage and attacks.
ChinaEmphasizes cyber sovereignty and state control over internet infrastructure.
Role in topic
CHN's approach to cybersecurity is largely characterized by its concept of 'cyber sovereignty,' which asserts a nation's right to control its own internet infrastructure and content. It is a significant actor in the development of cyber capabilities and has been accused of cyber espionage. CHN often advocates for a multilateral approach to cyber governance that respects national sovereignty and non-interference.
RussiaFocuses on information security, often viewed as a source of sophisticated cyber threats.
Role in topic
RUS is a prominent actor in the global cybersecurity landscape, known for its advanced cyber capabilities and its focus on information security. It has been implicated in numerous high-profile cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. RUS often emphasizes the need for international treaties to prevent the militarization of cyberspace and advocates for state control over critical information infrastructure.
United KingdomAdvocates for a free, open, peaceful, and secure cyberspace, with strong defensive and offensive capabilities.
Role in topic
The GBR is a leading nation in cybersecurity, committed to maintaining a free, open, peaceful, and secure cyberspace. It invests heavily in cyber defense and intelligence capabilities and plays an active role in international efforts to combat cybercrime and state-sponsored attacks. The GBR often collaborates closely with allies like the USA on cybersecurity initiatives and intelligence sharing.
EstoniaPioneer in digital governance and cyber defense, advocating for international cooperation and resilience.
Role in topic
EST is recognized globally as a pioneer in digital governance and cyber defense, having built a highly digitized society. Following significant cyberattacks, it has invested heavily in national cyber resilience and has been a strong advocate for international cooperation and information sharing in cybersecurity. EST's experience offers valuable insights into building robust digital infrastructure and responding to large-scale cyber incidents.
IranDeveloping cyber capabilities, often involved in regional cyber conflicts and state-sponsored activities.
Role in topic
IRN is an emerging actor in the cybersecurity domain, actively developing its cyber capabilities. It has been involved in regional cyber conflicts and is often accused of state-sponsored cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and government entities. IRN's perspective on cybersecurity is shaped by its geopolitical context and its efforts to enhance its digital defenses and offensive capabilities.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
United Nations General Assembly Committee
Security Implications of Cyber Warfare and Cyber Terrorism
Key players
- United States
Leading proponent of applying existing international law to cyberspace and of the voluntary norms framework.
- Russia
Original sponsor of the OEWG and advocate of a new binding cyber treaty under UN auspices.
- China
Pushes state-sovereignty-centred cyber governance and co-sponsored the Cybercrime Convention.
- United Kingdom
Active in articulating how international humanitarian law and sovereignty apply to state cyber operations.
- Estonia
Post-2007 cyber-defence pioneer, host of the NATO CCDCOE and Tallinn Manual process.
- Iran
Both target (Stuxnet) and alleged sponsor of offensive cyber activity, central to threshold debates.
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for Global Cyber Conference 2026.
Recent reporting to ground your prep
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance