Para. 44
Switzerland welcomes the reflection of proposals made regarding establishment of national
Points of Contact as well as a global directory. When referring to possible categories or levels
of such Points of Contact, we would encourage consistent enumeration of such categories
throughout the report (see also para. 68).
F. Capacity-building
We recommend that the section on capacity building refer clearly to different aspects and
elements of capacity building, including the need for capacity building efforts to address gaps
in both technical and policy capacity among all stakeholders, and to involve all stakeholders in
addressing those gaps. Also, the report, including its recommendations, should highlight the
need to make use of existing platforms or mechanisms aimed at coordination and coherence
in capacity-building efforts and to avoid duplication of such existing efforts.
Para. 50
Switzerland agrees with the reflection in para. 33, whereas a need for additional efforts to build
capacity in the area of international law was identified; this aspect should also be reflected
here.
Para. 52
As we had mentioned during discussions at the OEWG, Switzerland strongly supports
integration of agreed principles for capacity building in the report. We support the principles
mentioned in this paragraph that in our view are all of equal importance.
G. Regular Institutional Dialogue
Switzerland supports the general gist of this chapter that reflects the recognition by States of
the need for continued conversation at UN level about cybersecurity and responsible behavior
of States. In addition, discussions at the OEWG made clear that there is a need to have a clear
and shared understanding of what questions the international community should discuss at
UN level, in order to decide on the format in which these questions could be discussed. As
many delegations have said, “form follows function”. This aspect should be reflected in the
report.
H. Conclusions and Recommendations
In our view, the report should provide targeted recommendations that can have real positive
impact. We believe that the proposed recommendations could be prioritized with this goal in
mind.
Para. 67
As stated in our feedback relating to chapter “D”, we hold that it is key for the report to reflect
that voluntary, non-binding norms do not alter existing international law. Also, it is important to
note that – as opposed to voluntary non-binding norms - international law goes beyond defining
expectations of State behavior, but requires adherence. Being clear on this distinction in the
report will significantly contribute to the better understanding of the relationship between
voluntary norms and international law. In addition and as stated above relating to paragraph
43, we believe that dialogue on matters pertaining to cybersecurity will contribute to
strengthening collective implementation and operationalisation of the existing framework for
responsible behavior in cyberspace.
Para. 68
We welcome the focus on inviting and encouraging States to continue to share national views
and practice on how international law applies to State use of ICTs. For Switzerland, this is a
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