Breaking the Cybersecurity Dilemma: Balancing National Security and Human Security in Cyberspace

ABSTRACT

In today’s world, cyberspace and cyberpower have become crucial elements of international security. This brings cyber-threats and the measures to counter them to the apex of the modern security dialogue. In the post-Snowden era, national approaches to cybersecurity seem to be sparking a ‘digital arms race’ rather than fostering more security. Hence, cyberspace presents a dilemma of epic proportions, which challenges the traditional notions of state-centric security within the arena of international relations. The reason for this is the supranational architecture of cyberspace, which makes it difficult for states to unilaterally securitize existing and emergent cyber-threats. This study interrogates the cybersecurity dilemma and explores the utility of the application of the human security concept to cyberspace.  The research shows that current national security approaches to the cybersecurity dilemma are inadequate in addressing the technical, political and social challenges predominant in cyberspace. The study concludes that a balance of the national security and human security approaches may provide states with a strong framework for addressing 21st century cyber challenges.