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Operational Technology, Cyber Resilient Ecosystems, and Critical Information Infrastructure Protection: Enhancing Cybersecurity Proficiency for Western Balkans Administrations

06.09.2024

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The Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C), in collaboration with the Dutch Nationaal Cyber Security Centrum (NCSC-NL) of the Ministry of Justice and Security, conducted a specialized training from 3 to 6 September at WB3C’s new premises in the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro.

The training series was designed to enhance the cybersecurity skills of key government officials from across the Western Balkans, focusing on protecting Critical Infrastructures (CI) and Critical Information Infrastructures (CII). Divided into three segments, the programme covered:

  • Operational Technology:
    Participants learned to secure Operational Technology crucial to sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities. Practical sessions explored strategies for defending against cyber threats targeting OT environments.
  • Cyber Resilient Ecosystems:
    This segment focused on building resilient ecosystems capable of withstanding and recovering from cyber incidents. The training involved hands-on exercises to develop regional and sector-specific strategies.
  • Critical Information Infrastructure Protection:
    The final segment provided insights into protecting essential digital assets, with practical exercises to strengthen strategies for safeguarding critical information infrastructures.

The training brought together government officials responsible for digital affairs, national crisis management, and critical infrastructure, as well as researchers in cybersecurity. Led jointly by experts from NCSC-NL and WB3C, this programme reflects WB3C's ongoing commitment to promoting cooperation both internationally and regionally on matters of cybersecurity. 


Empowering Albania’s institutions to fight cybercrime

This week, Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C) partnered with UNDP Albania to deliver an intensive Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) training for 20 law enforcement officers and prosecutors from across Albania.

Led by a French expert from Office Anti-Cybercriminalite (OFAC)  the session equipped participants with techniques to gather, analyze and leverage publicly available information for complex cybercrime investigations. 

Why this matters? 

Combatting cybercrime is a core strategic pillar for us. Strengthening the capabilities of regional institutions to investigate and prosecute digital threats is vital both for the security, economic prosperity and the European integration of the region. 

A huge thank you to:
• The committed Albanian officers and prosecutors for their proactive engagement
• UNDP Albania for their invaluable partnership
• Our OFAC expert for sharing critical expertise and real-world insights.

This week, Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C) partnered with UNDP Albania to deliver an intensive Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) training for 20 law enforcement officers and prosecutors from across Albania.

Led by a French expert from OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control), the session equipped participants with techniques to gather, analyze and leverage publicly available information for complex cybercrime investigations. 

Why this matters? 

Combatting cybercrime is a core strategic pillar for us. Strengthening the capabilities of regional institutions to investigate and prosecute digital threats is vital both for the security, economic prosperity and the European integration of the region. 

A huge thank you to:
• The committed Albanian officers and prosecutors for their proactive engagement
• UNDP Albania for their invaluable partnership
• Our OFAC expert for sharing critical expertise and real-world insights.

Specialized training for Kosovo* prosecutors with HAPE

From May 26 to 29, WB3C organized a specialized training course for Kosovo* prosecutors and law enforcement officials, as part of the Home Affairs Programme of the EU in Kosovo (HAPE).

This training, delivered by the two WB3C trainers, supported Kosovo's* efforts to strengthen institutional capacity to investigate and prosecute serious cybercrime, particularly in the areas of organized crime, corruption, cyber threats, and counterterrorism.

This initiative is part of a broader EU-supported effort to improve operational readiness in key areas, including financial crime, cybercrime, and border management, and to foster regional and cross-border cooperation in accordance with European standards. As the region's central training platform, WB3C was pleased to be able to contribute to regional cyber capacity building initiatives in support of European integration and the rule of law.

 

*References to Kosovo shall be understood in the context of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999).

Building the Next Generation of Cyber Talent

Last week in Durres, Albania, 60 students from across the Western Balkans came together for the Western Balkan Cyber Camp 2025 - a dynamic, hands-on learning experience focused on building practical skills and regional collaboration in cybersecurity. The camp featured expert-led sessions, live cyber drills and exchanges with professionals from national CSIRTs, giving participants the chance to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and deepen their understanding of today’s digital threats.
Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C) was proud to support this important regional initiative, alongside Autoriteti Kombëtar për Sigurinë Kibernetike / National Cyber Security Authority, OSCE Presence in Albania, e-Governance Academy and GIZ Albania HR.

The WB3C delegation was led by Gilles Schwoerer, Head of WB3C, who emphasized our ongoing commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and investing in the next generation of cyber talent.

At WB3C, we see events like this as essential to creating a resilient digital future - by connecting people, sharing knowledge and empowering the cyber professionals of tomorrow.


Copyright © WB3C

Disclaimer: Translations of the original content written in English into other languages are AI generated by Weglot.