The EU has launched a selection process to host its Cybersecurity Industrial, Technology and Research Competence Centre. The Competence Centre will provide EU member countries and businesses with cybersecurity-related financial support, technical assistance, and skills development opportunities. In today’s highly connected digital environment, the ECCC will undertake large-scale research projects and drive cybersecurity standards.
As the institutional representative of 45 million businesses around the world, ICC is committed to securing sustainable, secure, and inclusive digital policies for all. Since its inception in 2006, ICC has been the leading private sector representative at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), where it has continually made the case for business to be included in all policy discussions and decisions related to the Internet and information society.
As an advocate for a multistakeholder approach to digital policies and Internet governance, ICC believes that the Competence Centre will strengthen cybersecurity, trust and inclusion. While there are several strong host candidates, ICC believes that the Spanish city of León is best suited to carry out the objectives of the new EU Competence Centre.
On Spain’s bid to host the Competence Centre, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said:
“Spain has an economy that is made up in great part of MSMEs and is well positioned to set standards that go well beyond the EU. We welcome the Spanish candidacy to host a European Cybersecurity Competence Centre in León. This will be a great opportunity to ensure that cybersecurity resources meet the needs of MSMEs and larger corporations alike. The Competence Centre will also ensure the reliability of every actor involved in global supply chains in which MSMEs are often the most vulnerable link in terms of cybersecurity.”
As part of its proposal to host the new Competence Centre, Spain cites León’s existing infrastructure, commodities, business environment and regional proximity to neighbouring countries as clear advantages for the EU.
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