According to the "Global Cybersecurity Index 2024" report prepared by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 194 countries were assessed across 5 spheres and 20 indicators, based on 83 questions. The report highlights significant improvements in cybersecurity efforts worldwide, with countries across all regions showing noticeable progress. In terms of development levels based on indicator measurement: 46 countries are classified as T1 ("Exemplary"), 29 countries as T2 ("Advanced"), 49 countries as T3 ("Maturing"), 56 countries as T4 ("Evolving"), and 14 countries as T5 ("Foundational"). This assessment reflects the growing global focus on cybersecurity in recent years. You can find more details in the report: Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 - https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Cybersecurity/Pages/global-cybersecurity-index.aspx).

In the "Global Cybersecurity Index 2024" report, Azerbaijan scored 93.76 out of 100 possible points, improving from its previous score of 89.31 in the 2020 index. Based on the new methodology, Azerbaijan is now classified as being at an "Advanced Level." When compared to the previous report, Azerbaijan saw improvements in four out of five assessed areas: "Legal Measures," "Cooperation Measures," "Capacity Development," and "Organization Measures." However, there was a slight decline in the score for the "Technical Measures" sphere, dropping from 19.19 to 18.02. Despite this, the overall score increased by more than 4 points (4.45), highlighting the country's progress in cybersecurity.

BASED ON THE EVALUATION RESULTS, THE KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD CAN BE SUMMARIZED AS FOLLOWS:

§  The "Legal Measures" has emerged as the strongest pillar of cybersecurity for most countries. In fact, 177 countries have implemented (or are in the process of developing) fundamental legal mechanisms in this area, establishing a solid foundation for regulating cybersecurity practices and ensuring legal compliance. This demonstrates a global trend toward strengthening cybersecurity legislation.

§  Computer Incident Response Teams (CIRTs) play a crucial role in national cybersecurity. As of the latest data, 139 countries have active CIRTs, a significant increase from 109 countries in the 2020 index. This highlights the growing global emphasis on establishing dedicated teams to respond to cybersecurity incidents, enhance national security, and coordinate efforts against cyber threats.

§  National cybersecurity strategies have become increasingly widespread. Currently, 132 countries have developed national cybersecurity strategies (a significant rise from 107 countries in the 2020 index). This growth reflects the global recognition of the need for structured and strategic approaches to enhancing national cybersecurity defenses.

§  Cyber awareness campaigns have become widespread. According to the report, 152 countries have implemented active awareness initiatives aimed at fostering a cybersecurity culture and mitigating potential risks. These campaigns play a critical role in educating citizens and organizations about cybersecurity threats and best practices for safeguarding digital assets.

§  Incentives for the development of the cybersecurity ecosystem continue to grow. In most countries, various mechanisms such as grants, scholarships, and tax incentives have been introduced to promote the cybersecurity industry. Additionally, in 127 countries, efforts are being made to enhance "Research and Development" capacity, with a focus on improving cybersecurity skills and encouraging research in the field. These initiatives are essential for fostering innovation and ensuring a robust cybersecurity infrastructure.

§  Many countries are actively collaborating in the field of cybersecurity within the framework of existing agreements. In fact, 92% of the assessed countries (166 countries) have implemented mechanisms for cybersecurity cooperation. These partnerships play a vital role in strengthening global cyber defenses, fostering information sharing, and enhancing collective capabilities to counter cyber threats.

§  In many countries, there has been a relatively passive approach toward initiatives in the areas of “Capacity Development” and “Technical Measures” spheres. For instance, 123 countries have reported organizing cybersecurity training for professionals (an increase from 105 in the 2020 index). Additionally, 110 countries have implemented frameworks for applying nationally or internationally recognized cybersecurity standards, a slight increase from 103 in the previous index. This indicates some progress but highlights the need for more active engagement in these critical areas to strengthen global cybersecurity efforts.

§  Strengthening initiatives to develop cybersecurity skills is essential. Although 153 countries have integrated cybersecurity into their national curricula to some extent, there is a need to increase efforts in cybersecurity training and awareness initiatives. This will help address the growing demand for cybersecurity expertise and enhance overall preparedness against cyber threats.

§  More attention must be given to the protection of children in the online space. While 164 countries have implemented legal measures for the online protection of children, only 94 countries have reported specific strategies and initiatives addressing this issue. This indicates gaps in the practical enforcement of these measures and highlights the need for more robust and comprehensive approaches to ensure children's safety online.

The report recommends that, In addItIon to other actIvItIes, countrIes prIorItIze the followIng actIons:

o    the establishment and implementation of legal measures that are clear, effective, and fair across all sectors.

o    the close involvement of various stakeholders in cybersecurity initiatives.

o    The development and regular updating of a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy, along with a practical, concrete action plan.

o    Addressing the challenges related to ensuring the security of critical information infrastructure.

o    expanding the capabilities for incident response.

o    the implementation of effective measures for the online protection of children.

o    expanding cybersecurity awareness initiatives.

o    developing cybersecurity capacity, including creating incentive mechanisms to promote research and development.

o    intensifying efforts to work with cybersecurity professionals, critical information infrastructure entities, youth, and vulnerable groups by organizing training programs to enhance cybersecurity knowledge and skills.

o    Promoting domestic and international partnerships and collaboration for information exchange, training opportunities, and capacity development in cybersecurity.