National security is in the hand of Member States, not of the European Union, under Article 4, par. 2, TEU. But cybersecurity is not only an issue involving national security, as it has much to do with trust with the digital economy, the freedom of speech, the free trade, the respect of citizens’ rights, their data protection and privacy; in a few words, it is a basic element of the European Single Market.
In June 2017, the Council of the European Union agreed to develop the cyber diplomatic toolbox, a joint EU diplomatic response to deter malicious cyber operations. The cyber diplomatic toolbox is a potential game changer for EU cybersecurity as it signals the potential consequences aggressors might face when they target EU member states’ information systems. However, there is more to that than meets the eyes.
Information communications technologies (ICTs) are the backbone of Europe's economy. They fuel new opportunities for citizens to connect, for governments to provide increased access to public services, for utilities to deliver critical services, and for businesses to serve as an engine of economic growth. The remarkable opportunities associated with being connected and participating in the Internet economy are enticing countries and corporations to further expand their digital footprint.