BRUNSSUM, The Netherlands – A group of 34 students and 6 staff from the European Centre on Privacy and Cybersecurity (ECPC) at Maastricht University recently visited Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS). This visit marked an important step in their studies, with a focus on enhancing cybersecurity within a military framework.
We lead and co-ordinate NATO operations across a range of responsibilities, from deterrence and defence, to readiness of Allied Forces, to operational planning across all domains
The day commenced with a welcome from General Gugliemo Luigi Miglietta, Commander of JFCBS. He emphasised the significance of partnerships with academic institutions. Visitors were given an overview of JFCBS’s structure and its vital role in coordinating NATO operations to safeguard member states.
"We lead and co-ordinate NATO operations across a range of responsibilities, from deterrence and defence, to readiness of Allied Forces, to operational planning across all domains. These include not just land, sea and air, but also space and, increasingly, cyberspace" stated General Miglietta.
Throughout the visit, discussions highlighted current cybersecurity issues and NATO's strategies for addressing them. The ECPC shared insights from their research, highlighting the importance of privacy and data protection in the digital age.
“Living in a global society driven by digital information has profoundly transformed the way personal data is collected, accessed, used, and transferred. Whilst a digital world brings enormous economic benefits, it also creates new vulnerabilities," said Cosimo Mouda, Director of ECPC.
In the afternoon, the students engaged in cyber student working groups that delved into discussions on various pressing cyber topics. The discussions included: How cyber threats are increasingly impacting the privacy of individuals. Insights into the growing problem of cybercrime that transcends national borders and examination of ways in which state-aligned actors are targeting essential infrastructure and sectors, posing significant risks to national security.
ECPC representatives expressed their appreciation for the insights into JFCBS operations and the opportunity to contribute to cybersecurity conversations. "You are not just students of cyberspace, you are future defenders of a domain that is under constant threat. Freedom, privacy, and trust in our institutions depend on our ability to secure the digital domain," said General Migliette.
The European Centre on Privacy and Cybersecurity offers a platform for research focused on legal issues related to personal data protection and cybersecurity. Their visit to JFCBS Brunssum exemplifies a proactive approach to cybersecurity, fostering collaboration between the military and academic sectors.