Fortifying the digital realm: a comprehensive analysis of cyberspace security and the EU legislative framework

• Published in: Security journal Vol. 38; no. 1; p. 54
• Main Authors: Li, Zhi, Wang, Junwei, Guo, Jieying, Chen, Mengyao, Feng, Xiaochang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Palgrave Macmillan UK 01.03.2025; Palgrave Macmillan
• Subjects: Business information; Certification; Collaboration; Communication; Cooperation; Crime and Society; Criminology and Criminal Justice; Cybersecurity; Digital infrastructure; Economic development; Effectiveness; Evaluation; Integrated approach; International cooperation; Internet; Internet of Things; Legal issues; National security; Original Article; Qualitative analysis; Regulation; Social Sciences; Supranationalism; Governance mechanism; Legal system; Sustainable; European Union; Cyberspace
• ISSN: 0955-1662; 1743-4645
• DOI: 10.1057/s41284-025-00492-2

In the Internet era, cyberspace has become a critical domain requiring robust security measures to protect against evolving threats such as cyberterrorism, data breaches, and intellectual property violations. The European Union (EU) has taken proactive steps to develop a legislative framework for cyberspace security, positioning itself as a prominent player in addressing cybersecurity challenges. However, the extent of its influence and leadership on the global stage remains a subject of debate. This study critically evaluates the EU's legal framework and governance mechanisms, identifying both its strengths and areas for improvement. A new mixed-method analysis is introduced, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide deeper insights into the effectiveness of the EU’s cybersecurity policies. The research uses case studies, interviews, and survey data to assess the practical application of legal frameworks and the role of supranational governance in cybersecurity outcomes across member states. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of fostering international cooperation to tackle the borderless nature of cyber threats and strengthen global cybersecurity. The novelty of this study lies in its focus on collaborative efforts between the EU and other nations, emphasizing the interdependent nature of cyberspace security. Achieving sustainable governance and a resilient legal framework requires continuous investment, effective evaluation mechanisms, and adaptive policy reforms.