Introduction Over a very short space of time, the internet has altered the global landscape of which Norway is a part. It has become the world’s most important piece of infrastructure, facilitating global exchange of goods, services and information. In the very near future, the internet is expected to become the superstructure on which all other infrastructure depends. Cyberspace is of great and increasing importance to national economies, security, growth and development. In response, countries have intensified their efforts to promote national interests in the development and use of cyberspace, through multilateral processes in forums such as the UN, NATO and OSCE, through bilateral usage and regulatory processes, as well as through security policy dialogue between allies and in global forums for the development of international trade, justice and transport policy. Contact and cooperation are also being pursued with the private sector. Unlike in other areas of great importance to the global economy and global security, no UN conventions or global agreements currently deal specifically with the regulation of national activities in cyberspace. Although there is international agreement that, in principle, customary international law also applies in cyberspace, there is some doubt and disagreement as to how and when international law applies. Norway’s economy and security depend on a well-functioning global internet and robust global digital infrastructure. Norway has a fundamental, long-term interest in contributing to create good and predictable conditions for the future development and use of cyberspace. Defence against digital threats is becoming ever more important. However, defence alone is no guarantor of security. As in the analogue world, the underlying causes of threats need to be addressed, and remedial measures must be weighed against the many benefits and opportunities offered by cyberspace. It is important to find the right balance between security and openness. The proper functioning of cyberspace requires both. Background Cyberspace provides a foundation for national and global innovation, growth and development. With stable, robust digital infrastructure in place, there are almost no limits to what the internet can facilitate. Over the past 20 years, the internet has impacted on most spheres of society. Manufacturing, trade, entertainment, education, finance, health services, agriculture, communications, political activism, transport, media, security and interaction with public agencies are just some examples of this. The internet will continue to play an important role in social and economic development in the years ahead, particularly in developing countries. Although central government plays a limited role in the development of cyberspace, the state has an important function as a facilitator of development, for example through innovation, research, teaching and ownership and protection of critical infrastructure. Internationally, national authorities are key players in the development of standards for cyberspace, both politically and operationally. However, the evolution of the internet and digital product and service development are primarily being driven by private companies and research and development institutions. Moreover, the backbone of the internet – global digital infrastructure – is largely in private hands. The Government considers private ownership to be positive in principle, as it promotes competition and continued innovation and development. On the other hand, important decisions relating to the development and security of cyberspace are largely being made by commercial and non-state actors outside traditional inter-governmental arenas. Society’s growing dependence on cyberspace has been accompanied by a sharp increase in digital security challenges and digital vulnerabilities. Cybercrime and network operations originating from both state and non-state parties represent very serious threats to Norway’s security and economy. This must be reflected in Norway’s international cooperation and security and foreign policy. The present cyber strategy document sets out Norway’s governing principles and strategic priorities for this area. 5