security. There is an ongoing international debate on establishing international regulation and code of conduct or norms of state behavior in Cyberspace and its relation to the international security. 43. To promote the international stability in the global cyberspace and achieve a common understanding on cyber issues based mainly on transparency and online confidence, The UN Group of Governmental Experts (UNGGE), agreed in June 2013, on a consensus report where it is stated that international law, especially the UN Charter, is applicable in Cyberspace. In addition, the group agreed that confidence building measures and high level communication and timely information sharing can increase trust and assurance among states. The group also highlighted the importance of capacity building to enhance the international cooperation in securing the cyberspace and reaffirmed the importance of the getting an open, free and secured global cyberspace as it is an enabler for economic and social development . 44. In line with the international discussions, an effective response to the Cybersecurity complex issues cannot be addressed effectively on a purely local level; it requires transnational cooperation by developing an appropriate cybersecurity culture and by enhancing complementary and coherent measures in a holistic and global way. At a continental level, it is essential to promote exchange of information and communication between countries at foreign policy level (not only technical) and developing cyber diplomacy capabilities and holding consultations in order to reduce the risks of criminal use of ICTs, notably the cyber espionage and Cyber terrorism. A continental and harmonized approach on the main cybersecurity issues is required from a strategic perspective to enhance regional, continental and international cooperation that are necessary in crossborder investigating and prosecuting of cybercrime. 45. The global and harmonized approach shall provide the African Countries a clear understanding for the future risk and vulnerabilities in smart technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) and support the countries to create a secure and resilient Cyber environment by providing assistance in developing the key components of a national cyber security framework required to prevent and counter all malicious activities carried out over Internet. 46. To combat global cyber-attacks, cybercrime and abusive or inappropriate uses of the ICT networks, and in line with the existing international cooperation mechanisms and best practices, the African Union Commission, Regional Economic communities and AU specialized institutions may adopt the following measures: i. ii. Develop Regional mechanisms for sharing experiences and best practices on Cybersecurity issues between AU Member States to increase Regional and International cooperation; Develop Regional Computer Emergency/ Incident Response Teams (CERTs / CIRTs); and promote the formal and informal exchange of information; Page 8 of 10