Madam President,
We thank you for the document presented on workstream 6, which we consider a good basis to move forward towards a text that reflects in a comprehensive and balanced manner the various positions of States.
Cuba considers it important to include the following elements in the text:
The priority of agreeing on common terminology that facilitates understanding among States regarding the use of ICTs, as there is no consensus on basic concepts such as cybercrime, cyber incident, cybercrime, information operations, or the different types of misuse of ICTs.
Explicit recognition as a flagrant violation of International Humanitarian Law and international law of the blocking of access to ICTs in conflict-affected areas, due to its impact on civilian access to essential goods and services and on the ability of governments to provide services and support medical services and humanitarian activities.
The need to adopt a Convention that comprehensively addresses cybersecurity and the use of ICTs, and regulates the conduct of States in cyberspace.
Prohibition of the covert and illegal use of information and communications technologies and computer systems of other nations by individuals, organizations, and States, to carry out cyberattacks against third countries and provoke international conflicts.
Recognition of the importance for States to refrain from developing offensive cyber warfare doctrines and from adopting commitments not to use cyberspace as an instrument of aggression against other States, as an essential preventive measure for the protection of civilian populations and critical infrastructure.
An explicit and unconditional prohibition of cyber operations targeting civilian critical infrastructure.
Madam President,
The breadth and rapid development of cyberspace, its multifaceted use, and the challenges it poses require the accelerated progressive development of international law, including International Humanitarian Law. This is a clearly under-regulated area that requires priority attention.
Thank you very much.