In an era marked by significant international competition and pressing global challenges such as climate change, health security, and inclusive economic growth, technology plays a crucial role. Recognizing this, the U.S. State Department has prioritized enhancing capacity and expertise in cyber, digital, and emerging technologies.
In the Preface to the Strategy for International Cyberspace & Digital Policy, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken says:’’We are in a pivotal period of international relations, characterized by acute competition between nations, and shared global challenges like climate change, food and health security, and inclusive economic growth.’’ He calls for global coalitions across governments, businesses, and civil societies to influence the digital revolution comprehensively, from infrastructure like subsea cables to advanced technologies such as trustworthy artificial intelligence and rights-respecting data governance.
The United States is committed to collaborating with any nation or entity dedicated to developing and deploying open, safe, and secure technologies that promote inclusive growth, bolster resilient and democratic societies, and empower individuals worldwide.
Strategic Vision and Global Collaboration
The U.S. aims to partner with allies, stakeholders, and partners globally to influence the design, development, governance, and usage of cyberspace and digital technologies. This collaboration seeks to advance economic prosperity and inclusion, enhance security, combat cybercrime, and uphold human rights and democratic principles. In contrast to autocratic regimes that exploit digital tools for harmful purposes, the U.S. strategy emphasizes the empowerment and connectivity benefits of an open, interoperable, secure, and reliable Internet.
Leadership in cyberspace and emerging digital technologies is crucial for realizing the vision of a “free, open, secure, and prosperous world” as outlined in the 2022 National Security Strategy (NSS). The Department of State leads this charge, advancing the 2023 National Cybersecurity Strategy (NCS) goals to create a defensible, rights-respecting digital ecosystem through international partnerships. This approach includes rebalancing cybersecurity responsibilities and realigning incentives to foster long-term investments in cybersecurity.
Principles of Digital Solidarity
Digital solidarity, the cornerstone of this Strategy, encapsulates the willingness to collaborate on shared technological goals, help partners enhance their capacities, and provide mutual support. This principle ensures that those who use digital technologies in a rights-respecting manner benefit from enhanced security, resilience, self-determination, and prosperity.
Key efforts under this principle include:
- Supporting Global Partners: Assisting allies and emerging economies in harnessing new technologies to achieve their developmental and economic objectives sustainably.
- Sustaining Partnerships: Maintaining strong collaborations with civil society and the private sector, promoting a diverse and resilient cybersecurity landscape.
- Enhancing Cyber Capacity: Empowering partners to develop a secure, resilient digital ecosystem capable of quick recovery from digital threats and incidents.
The U.S. Department of State, in coordination with other federal agencies and international bodies, will prioritize these principles and actions over the next three to five years, demonstrating the United States’ commitment to building a cooperative and innovative digital future. Through these concerted efforts, the U.S. aims to foster a digital environment that is not only beneficial to American interests but also supportive of global stability and growth.
Read full text of the Strategy at: United States International Cyberspace & Digital Policy Strategy