Cyber Security Development Programme: Higher level of cyber security brings growth and jobs

On 10 June 2021, the Government adopted a Cyber Security Development Programme. It is a concrete implementation plan on how to develop cyber security across sectors in the long term. It covers the years 2021-2030.

The primary aim of the Programme is to deliver growth and improve the sustainability of the digital society. There are four themes in the Programme: top-level competence, close collaboration, strong domestic cyber security industry and effective national cyber security capabilities.

Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka is pleased with the content and preparation of the Development Programme.

"Cyber security involves both threats and opportunities. These are addressed in the Programme, which aims at successful international business through cooperation and higher expertise," Minister Harakka says.

The implementation of the Development Programme requires annual funding of EUR 5.9 million for the period 2022-2025. The guidelines on the appropriations are to be laid down in connection with the 2022 budget.

More than 80 organisations contributed to the preparation of the Development Programme. Participants in the workshops that were organised during the preparation represented business and industry, cyber security industry, central government, universities and several organisations.

High level of cyber security is everyone's responsibility

The need to improve the level of cyber security is highlighted, for example, by the networking of the information environments in society, the rapid development of the technologies related to data management and the increasing number of cyber security incidents. A good level of cyber security can be achieved only if it is included in corporate social responsibility and the activities of every organisation and individual.

The Government Resolution on the Cyber Security Development Programme is based on the Programme of Prime Minister Sanna Marin's Government that aims to increase national cyber security in order to improve national coordination and to enhance international cooperation.

Another tool aiming at improving cyber security in society is a government resolution adopted on 10 June 2021 on improving information security and data protection in critical sectors of society. The resolution emphasises more efficient and organised cooperation of the authorities and clearly targeted statutory requirements and obligations in the information security sector.

The resolution on improving information security and data protection in critical sectors of society will ensure a sufficient level of information security in critical sectors of society, whereas the Cyber Security Development Programme reviews the society at large and aims at effectiveness in a longer term.

Inquiries:

Tino Aalto, Special Adviser, tel. +358 50 436 9188

Rauli Paananen, Cyber Security Director, tel. +358 40 565 9060, Twitter: @rauli_paananen

Laura Vilkkonen, Director General, tel. +358 40 500 0817, Twitter: @vilkkonen

Requests for interviews with Minister Timo Harakka: Susanna Niinivaara, Communications Director, tel. +358 40 081 6187, susanna.niinivaara(at)lvm.fi