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As Europe awakens to new geopolitical realities, the need for a comprehensive approach to security has never been more pressing. The shifting dynamics of global alliances and the increasing complexity of cyber threats, especially with the integration of AI in hybrid warfare, highlight a critical truth: modern warfare is not just about military might.
Cyber attacks against critical infrastructure and industry, such as physical warfare, pose a significant threat. As European nations ramp up military spending, they must also recognise that securing physical and cyberspace infrastructure is essential. This is where Estonia’s security-by-design approach serves as a compelling example.
Estonia’s unique history and proactive approach to digitalisation have positioned it as a leader in cyber security. Sharing a border with Russia and having experienced Soviet occupation, Estonia understands the importance of resilience. The 2007 cyberattacks, widely regarded as the first instance of cyber warfare against a nation-state, catalysed Estonia’s fortification of its digital defences and advocacy for a security-by-design approach globally. Today, Estonia’s experience is more relevant than ever as cyber threats grow in sophistication and scale.
Cyber security is not just about protecting infrastructure; it’s about empowering citizens. Estonia has taken bold steps to ensure that cyber security awareness extends beyond government and industry to the entire population. The CybExer Cyber Hygiene e-Learning Course, introduced for all civil servants, has strengthened digital awareness within the public sector. But Estonia’s efforts go further—free interactive courses and nationwide public ad campaigns help individuals recognise and respond to cyber threats. Estonia has launched a national television program dedicated to cyber security, reinforcing cyber hygiene awareness and emphasising cyber security as a shared responsibility to engage an even wider audience. These initiatives illustrate a fundamental truth: the people of Europe must be aware of their role in protecting cyberspace, as social engineering attacks against individuals are often the entry point for adversaries targeting critical infrastructure.
Estonia has always pioneered digital solutions out of necessity. Just as Ukraine is now leading innovations in drone warfare, Estonia became a trailblazer in cyber security because survival demanded it. Our journey in digitalisation started with a bold vision. The Tiger Leap Initiative, launched in 1996, ensured that every school in Estonia had internet access and computers by 2001. This early investment in digital education played a key role in shaping Estonia’s digitally literate and forward-thinking society. Today, Estonia is taking another pioneering step by integrating AI into high school education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to navigate and shape the future. By teaching young people how to leverage AI for their benefit, we are strengthening their digital competence and fostering a new generation of cyber security experts who can anticipate and counter emerging threats.
These bold initiatives have paid off. Estonia now boasts one of the highest levels of public trust in government, proof of our transparent and citizen-centric digital society. According to PISA tests, our children rank first in creative thinking, underscoring the impact of Estonia’s investment in digital and cyber security education. By fostering critical thinking and digital literacy from an early age, we are preparing future generations to thrive in an AI-driven world and equipping them with the skills to recognise and counter evolving cyber threats.
So, what does this mean for Europe’s security? Estonia has never shied away from making bold decisions that the rest of the world initially considered radical. We have consistently proven that digitalisation can be secure and transformative with the right vision. Just as Estonia took the lead in digital government when the world was sceptical, we must now apply a similar mindset to strengthening Europe’s cyber security. As the continent prepares to defend itself, it must take a holistic approach, integrating technological security with public awareness and trust. The threats we face demand collective action, innovative thinking, and a willingness to embrace unconventional solutions. Estonia is ready to share its experiences and collaborate with others to shape a more secure digital future.
