Strengthening cybersecurity in Central Asia: cybersecurity maturity assessment

In response to growing cyber threats and cybercrime, public sector organisations in many countries are revising their national cybersecurity strategies and recognising the need for a more holistic, cross-border approach to strengthening cybersecurity. To support the cybersecurity authorities of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the e-Governance Academy (eGA) has joined the Team Europe Initiative on Digital Connectivity in Central Asia project. The cybersecurity component of this initiative aims to enhance national cyber resilience and foster regional and international cooperation across Central Asia countries.

The first assignment under this initiative focused on assessing national cybersecurity needs and gaps. Last week, eGA experts conducted field missions in Astana, Kazakhstan, and Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to evaluate cybersecurity maturity and identify areas for potential collaboration under the Central Asia Digital Connectivity Project, funded by the European Union.

The week-long mission featured insightful meetings and interviews with key stakeholders from government institutions, the private sector, and academia. The team also had the pleasure of visiting the Estonian Embassy in Astana and the EU Delegation.

Based on the findings, eGA will compile a consolidated regional cybersecurity capacity needs and gaps report. This will serve as a foundation for upcoming project activities, with a focus on:

• Strengthening cybersecurity regulations
• Training cybersecurity professionals and policymakers
• Raising awareness of cyber hygiene and digital safety
• Facilitating efficient cross-border knowledge exchange

Stay tuned for updates from the upcoming assessment missions to Tashkent and Dushanbe.

This mission is part of the Team Europe Initiative on Digital Connectivity in Central Asia, implemented by Expertise France in collaboration with the e-Governance Academy, Central Project Management Agency, Central Financing and Contracting Agency, and HAUS Institute.