[Podcast] The Diplomat’s Sofa #2: Cybersecurity: A meeting place for diplomats and techies with David Koh

Welcome to the second episode of our new podcast series The Diplomat’s Sofa where we speak to diplomats about their craft and the latest developments in international diplomacy. 

In our second episode, hosted by Diplo’s Vladimir Radunovic, we spoke to Mr David Koh, commissioner of cybersecurity and chief executive of the Cybersecurity Agency of Singapore (CSA).

With the increased digitalisation of all segments of society (and not only due to COVID-19), cybersecurity is becoming a national security priority. In addition, it remains a highly complex and multidisciplinary field: diplomats have to partner with regulators, tech communities, civil society, and businesses. 

National regulatory approaches are always looking at new ways to enhance the security of supply chains, and digital products and services in general. However, these attempts need to be harmonised with similar initiatives on regional and global levels, as well as with international standards, principles, and norms. 

• What are the major regulatory challenges? 
• How can diplomats understand the complexity of issues and work with other stakeholders?
• What skills do both diplomats and non-diplomats need to acquire to be able to work together and bridge the gap between their professional cultures and mindsets? 

Koh shares his experiences and stories, from his beginnings as a techie, to becoming a ‘super-diplomat’ involved in and leading cybersecurity negotiations.

Watch other episodes of The Diplomat’s Sofa!

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Episode #1: ‘A breakthrough in UN cybersecurity negotiations’ with guest Amb. Jürg Lauber, permanent representative of Switzerland to the UN in Geneva and former chair of the UN Open-ended Working Group on Cybersecurity (OEWG).