The fourth annual Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) will commence in Riyadh on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Organized by the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), the two-day event is themed “Advancing Collective Action in Cyberspace” and aims to strengthen international cooperation on pressing cyber issues.
Context and Background
The GCF brings together thought leaders, decision-makers, and representatives from over 120 countries, including chief executives from international organizations, high-level speakers from government and academic sectors, and leading global companies. The forum builds on the foundations of previous editions, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping global cybersecurity policies.
A highlight of this year’s GCF is the first-ever Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) Global Summit, organized by the NCA and the GCF Foundation in collaboration with the UN International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and stakeholders from the private sector, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. This summit aligns with the global initiative of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince to safeguard children in the digital realm.
Key Details
The GCF will feature panel discussions on several critical themes: overcoming cyber disparities to build trust and enhance international cooperation; understanding cyber behavior and its impact on social fabric in cyberspace; making cyberspace a catalyst for development and bridging social gaps; advancing the thriving cyber economy to contribute to global development; and exploring new cyber horizons through emerging technologies. The CPC Global Summit aims to raise global awareness about growing threats children face online.
Implications and Impact
The forum’s emphasis on collective action and child protection highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in addressing global cybersecurity challenges. By hosting the CPC Global Summit, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a key player in international efforts to create a safer digital environment for vulnerable populations. The participation of UN agencies and global stakeholders underscores the forum’s significance in fostering cross-border collaboration.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The GCF directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting economic and social development through enhanced cybersecurity, which is essential for a thriving digital economy. The forum aligns with the strategic objectives of the GCF Foundation to advance international cybersecurity efforts, drive innovation, and ensure a secure cyberspace that benefits global communities, reflecting the Kingdom’s long-term vision for a prosperous and connected future.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Global Cybersecurity Forum?
A1. The GCF is an annual international event focused on enhancing cybersecurity cooperation. It brings together global leaders, experts, and organizations to address pressing challenges in cyberspace.
Q2. When and where is the GCF taking place?
A2. The fourth GCF is being held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, over two days on October 2-3, 2024.
Q3. Who is patronizing the GCF?
A3. The forum is under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Q4. Who organized the GCF?
A4. The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) of Saudi Arabia organized the event.
Q5. What is the theme of this year’s GCF?
A5. The theme is “Advancing Collective Action in Cyberspace,” emphasizing international collaboration.
Q6. How many countries are participating in the GCF?
A6. Representatives from over 120 countries are attending the forum.
Q7. What is the Child Protection in Cyberspace Global Summit?
A7. It is the first-ever summit held as part of the GCF, focusing on safeguarding children online and raising global awareness.
Q8. Which organizations collaborated on the CPC Global Summit?
A8. The summit is organized by the NCA and GCF Foundation with the ITU, UNICEF, and various private and academic stakeholders.
Q9. What initiative does the CPC Global Summit align with?
A9. It aligns with the global initiative by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince to protect children in cyberspace.
Q10. What is one of the discussion themes at the GCF?
A10. One theme is overcoming cyber disparities to enhance trust and international cooperation.
Q11. Does the GCF address social issues in cyberspace?
A11. Yes, it includes discussions on cyber behavior and social fabric to promote inclusion.
Q12. How does the GCF relate to economic development?
A12. The forum explores the thriving cyber economy’s contribution to global development and market advancement.
Q13. What are “new cyber horizons” at the GCF?
A13. They refer to mechanisms for leveraging emerging technologies to drive progress and innovation.
Q14. Who participates in the GCF?
A14. Participants include decision-makers, government representatives, cybersecurity leaders, academia, and NGOs.
Q15. What is the GCF Foundation’s role?
A15. The GCF Foundation aims to enhance international cybersecurity, achieve economic and social development, and align global efforts.
Q16. How does the GCF support Saudi Vision 2030?
A16. It promotes a secure digital environment essential for economic growth and innovation under Vision 2030.
Q17. Is the GCF a one-time event?
A17. No, it is an annual forum building on objectives set by previous editions.
Q18. What is the significance of the GCF for global cybersecurity?
A18. It provides a platform for high-level international cooperation and policy development in cyberspace.
Q19. Are there any specific outcomes expected from the GCF?
A19. The forum aims to foster partnerships, share best practices, and drive collective action on cyber issues.
Q20. How does the GCF address child protection?
A20. Through the CPC Global Summit, it raises awareness among decision-makers about threats children face online and promotes protective measures.
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