PREAMBLE: COMMUNICATION NETWORKS IN GLOBALLY DIGITALIZED WORLD Communication is the cornerstone of our societies. It defines almost every aspect of our lives. Yet the rapid development and scale on which we use communication technologies increases our dependency and vulnerabilities. 5G networks and future communication technologies will transform the way we communicate and the way we live substantially. Transportation, energy, agriculture, manufacturing, health, defense and other sectors will be significantly enhanced and altered through these next generation networks. High-speed low-latency technology is expected to allow for a true digital evolution, stimulating growth, innovation and well-being. Automatization of everyday activities and the use of the internet of things in its full potential will be made possible. These developments, however, invoke major risks to important public interests and have national security implications. Today, malicious actors operate in cyber space, with the intention to undermine cohesion of our societies and paralyze the proper functioning of states or businesses. This includes attempts to control or disrupt our communication channels and the information transmitted. In digitalized societies, this can have serious consequences. Security of communication channels has therefore become vital. Disruption of the integrity, confidentiality or availability of transmitted information or even the disruption of the service itself can seriously hamper everyday life, societal functions, economy and national security. Communication infrastructures are the cornerstone of our societies, with 5G networks to become the building blocks of a new digital environment. ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SECURITY OF 5G NETWORKS Considering that security of 5G networks is crucial for national security, economic security and other national interests and global stability, the chair believes that the architecture and functions of 5G networks must be underpinned by an appropriate level of security. EU Member States underline their own ongoing process aimed at defining a common EU approach on the issue of cybersecurity of 5G networks as initiated by the European Commission with the publication of its Recommendation published on 26 March 2019. With the intention to support ongoing discussions how to decrease the security risks associated with developing, deploying, operating, and maintaining complex communication infrastructures such as 5G networks, the chair recognizes existence of the following perspectives: Cyber security not only a technical issue Cyber security cannot be regarded as a purely technical issue. A safe, secure and resilient infrastructure requires adequate national strategies, sound policies, a comprehensive legal framework and dedicated personnel, who is trained and educated appropriately. Strong cyber security supports the protection of civil liberties and privacy. 1