Responsible State Behavior in Cyberspace – International Norms and the Role of the EU in Cyberdiplomacy

12.11.2024

The Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C), in partnership with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), will be hosting a three-day workshop titled "Responsible State Behavior in Cyberspace: International Norms and the Role of the EU in Cyberdiplomacy" from 12 to 14 November. This event brings together experts from across the region and the EU to explore critical aspects of cyberdiplomacy, focusing on international norms, the role of international law in cyberspace, and the European Union's efforts in fostering cyber cooperation.

Workshop Highlights:

Day 1: An in-depth exploration of the UN Framework on Responsible State Behavior in Cyberspace, including key components such as UN norms, international law, capacity building, and confidence-building measures.
Day 2: A detailed examination of the EU’s cyber ecosystem and its collaborative efforts with the Western Balkans to enhance regional cybersecurity cooperation.
Day 3: A hands-on tabletop exercise simulating international cooperation and national coordination in response to a cyber incident.

Why Cyberdiplomacy Matters

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the importance of diplomatic engagement to establish rules of behavior in cyberspace has never been more crucial. Cyberdiplomacy plays a key role in preventing cyber conflicts, promoting trust between nations and ensuring a stable and secure digital environment. The European Union, with its robust cyber ecosystem and diplomatic efforts, is at the forefront of shaping these international norms.

WB3C is actively contributing to these efforts by providing a platform for regional and international cooperation, training and capacity-building. By hosting workshops such as this, WB3C strengthens the ability of Western Balkans countries to engage in global cyberdiplomacy and contribute to the development of a secure and resilient cyberspace.

Other news and events

OSINT Training for Trafficking in Human Being and Migrant Smuggling

Four days in the training room, focused on a topic where online traces can make a very real difference: OSINT for Trafficking in Human Beings (THB) and Migrant Smuggling.
WB3C has just concluded this regional training for law enforcement units, organised together with Marie Pierre MOSIN, EU4FAST and CIVIPOL and delivered by our in-house trainer Cyril CORRIAS.
For investigators working on THB and migrant smuggling, the digital aspect is essential. Recruitment, communication, movement, facilitation networks and financial signals often leave online traces. Knowing how to find, assess, preserve and use that information responsibly can strengthen investigations and support better cross-border cooperation.
This is why OSINT remains part of WB3C’s core programme. It connects cyber skills with real operational needs in the Western Balkans and helps law enforcement units build practical capacity against serious and organised crime.
A strong three days, with committed participants and a clear regional purpose.

Cybersecurity for Electrical Grid Systems

In cooperation with Urad Vlade Republike Slovenije za informacijsko varnost (URSIV) za informacijsko varnost, on 12–14 May, Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C) organised the Cybersecurity for Electrical Grid Systems training for professionals working across electrical grid operations, OT/SCADA environments, substations, protection and automation, and cybersecurity management.
Over two and a half intensive days, participants worked on practical approaches to strengthening the cyber resilience of electrical grid systems, including:
• threat modelling for control centre and substation environments
• secure OT architecture, zoning and remote access
• OT telemetry, logging and detection engineering
• incident response decision-making and recovery planning
• practical exercises, tabletop scenarios and mitigation planning

Critical infrastructure cybersecurity requires close cooperation, operational understanding and continuous capacity building. This training supported practitioners to strengthen preparedness, improve response coordination and build more resilient electrical grid environments across the region.

Special thanks to URSIV and Igor Kovač for enabling this training led by Primoz Bratanic, and thank you to all participants for their active engagement.

Western Balkans Cyber Camp 2026, Durres, Albania

The traditional annual gathering of young cyber talent, organised by Autoriteti Kombëtar për Sigurinë Kibernetike / National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK) in Albania, took place again this year, bringing together young professionals from across the Western Balkans.
Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C) was glad to be part of this great regional event once again.
The WesternBalkansCyberCamp 2026 combined keynote remarks, panel discussions, expert sessions and a Capture The Flag competition, giving participants space to learn, test their skills, work in mixed regional teams and connect with peers from neighbouring countries.
WB3C contributed through participation in the panel discussion by Gilles Schwoerer and through our trainer Ronan Mouchoux, who supported the practical learning part of the programme.
What makes this camp valuable is not only the technical work, but the trust, friendships and professional links built among young people who will shape the region’s cyber future.
Thank you to Autoriteti Kombëtar për Sigurinë Kibernetike / National Cyber Security Authority , Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) and OSCE Presence in Albania for supporting this important regional initiative.