Photo By Karlheinz Wedhorn | Cyber security professionals from around the world participate in the 2025 Program on...... read more read more
The George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies wrapped up its Program on Cyber Security Studies on May 15, after three weeks of focused strategic collaboration and professional development in the critical and evolving cybersecurity domain.
“Thank you for being here. It speaks to your professionalism, your dedication to the mission, and your commitment to advancing global security,” said Bernard Finel, Ph.D., dean of the College of International and Security Studies. “The real work begins now — strategy isn't about what you want, but what you’re willing to work for and deliver. I encourage you to take the insights from this seminar, stay connected with one another, and continue building meaningful outcomes for your nations and for our shared security.”
The program convened 73 cybersecurity professionals from 53 countries, spanning ministries of defense, foreign affairs, and national security agencies. Throughout the course, participants engaged in lectures, panel discussions, scenario-based workshops, and seminars that examined the complex cyber threat landscape and explored policy solutions to strengthen cyber resilience at all levels.
“Cyber is not a national issue. Cyber is an international issue, and no single nation can face these challenges alone,” said Rolf Wagner, Marshall Center German deputy director. “It is through collaboration, trust, and shared expertise that we build the resilience our future demands.”
Designed to bridge the gap between technical experts and decision-makers, PCSS equips rising and senior-level leaders with a foundational understanding of cyber terminology, legal frameworks, strategic policy considerations, and operational planning tools.
The program’s curriculum highlighted responsible state behavior in cyberspace, public-private partnerships, the protection of critical infrastructure, and the implications of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
Participants also heard from distinguished speakers including Ambassador Maria Adebahr, Germany’s director for Cyber, Foreign and Security Policy, and leading experts from Brazil, Nigeria, Finland, the U.S., and NATO institutions. Through open dialogue and case studies, participants explored the operational and legal complexities of cyber incidents, advancing their understanding of cyber diplomacy and defense cooperation.
PCSS alumni now lead national cyber offices, support whole-of-government coordination, and advise ministers across multiple regions. That growing network, built on trust, operational familiarity, and shared norms, serves as a force multiplier for U.S. and allied efforts to collectively address regional, transnational, and global challenges in an increasingly contested information environment.
Jamila Ade, deputy director of the Cyber Crimes Unit at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Justice, spoke to the lasting value of the relationships built during the program. A returning alumna, Ade previously attended PCSS in 2023, returning for the 2025 course as a speaker and seminar leader.
“The relationships you have built here are not just for this course. They are the foundation of a global network of professionals working together to protect our collective future,” she said.
Ade added that the Marshall Center experience offered not just new ideas, but practical insights she could immediately apply.
“My experience at the Marshall Center broadened my perspective and strengthened my approach to cyber issues. The exchange of ideas and best practices is invaluable. This course helped me take new insights back to Nigeria as we work to strengthen our legal frameworks and build collaborative efforts against cybercrime,” she said. “I encourage current and future participants to seize this opportunity, build relationships, and stay connected, because effective cyber defense requires cooperation at all levels, nationally and internationally.”
A key feature of the program was a scenario-based tabletop exercise simulating a coordinated multinational response to a cyberattack targeting critical infrastructure. This practical engagement allowed participants to apply strategic concepts, test coordination mechanisms, and strengthen trust essential for transnational cyber defense.
Graduates of PCSS join a dynamic alumni network committed to sustained cooperation and mutual support. As cybersecurity challenges continue to evolve, the Marshall Center remains dedicated to equipping security leaders with the knowledge, partnerships, and operational strategies needed to protect nations and strengthen global cooperation.
| Date Taken: | 05.16.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 05.20.2025 08:43 |
| Story ID: | 498317 |
| Location: | DE |
| Web Views: | 64 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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