Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urges international cooperation at the Global Cybersecurity Forum in Riyadh, emphasising child protection and women’s empowerment in the cyber sector

At the forefront of global discussions on digital safety, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has issued a strong call for harmonised international collaboration to bolster cybersecurity efforts. Addressing the opening of the Global Cybersecurity Forum in Riyadh on Wednesday, the Crown Prince stressed that cyberspace is integral not just to the prosperity of societies, but to the very security of individuals and stability of nations.

“Cyberspace is closely linked to the growth of economies, the prosperity of societies, the security of individuals, and the stability of nations,” the Crown Prince said in a statement delivered at the forum’s inauguration. The two-day event has drawn some of the world’s most influential leaders, including former prime ministers, government officials, policymakers, and CEOs from more than 125 countries, all gathering to discuss pressing cybersecurity issues and how to tackle them together.

The Crown Prince highlighted the dual nature of cyberspace—offering both significant opportunities and formidable challenges. In light of its cross-border characteristics, he emphasised the need for a global effort to maximise its potential while addressing its risks. “It is essential to harmonise international efforts to seize the opportunities it presents and face the challenges by investing in people,” he said, reiterating the importance of a coordinated approach to cybersecurity.

In his remarks, the Crown Prince underscored Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to fostering global cooperation and acting as a positive force on the international stage. “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always been a force for good for the benefit of humanity and human prosperity around the world,” he noted. “It has continuously worked to uphold the principle of cooperation and strengthen international collaboration toward efforts that support development and prosperity for all nations.”

A key theme of the forum was the Kingdom’s focus on protecting vulnerable groups and promoting inclusivity within the cybersecurity space. The Crown Prince recalled two pivotal global initiatives launched in 2020: one aimed at protecting children in cyberspace, and another dedicated to empowering women in the cybersecurity field. These initiatives have been placed under the stewardship of the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) Institute, which is tasked with driving their implementation and expanding their reach.

“Believing in the importance of investing in people in this vital and promising domain, in 2020 we launched two global initiatives,” the Crown Prince explained. “The first relates to protecting children in cyberspace, and the second focuses on empowering women in the field of cybersecurity.”

The initiatives have already shown considerable progress. There has been a significant advancement in the understanding of global cybersecurity needs, leading to the development of innovative visions and impactful programs. The GCF has played a central role in pushing these initiatives forward, publishing groundbreaking research, and proposing new frameworks that aim to enhance child safety online and promote women’s participation in cybersecurity at both national and international levels.

The Crown Prince pointed out that the work of the GCF has inspired decision-makers across the globe to adopt policies that strengthen cybersecurity efforts, particularly in relation to safeguarding children and boosting female representation in the cyber industry. This is critical as cyberspace becomes an increasingly central element of daily life and economic growth, and the need for safe and inclusive digital environments grows ever more urgent.

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, so too does the necessity of adapting cybersecurity measures. The forum provided a platform for leading figures in the field to exchange ideas, debate policies, and work together on crafting effective global responses to cyber threats. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision of positioning itself at the forefront of digital security and international cooperation on this crucial issue.

The Crown Prince’s message at the forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions, not only in cybersecurity but in contributing to global stability and progress through diplomacy, investment in human capital, and fostering technological innovation. By championing initiatives like child protection and women’s empowerment in the digital world, Saudi Arabia is setting the stage for more inclusive and equitable cybersecurity strategies worldwide.

In a world where cyber threats know no borders, the Kingdom’s emphasis on harmonised international efforts offers a compelling path forward. The message from Riyadh is clear: cybersecurity is a shared global responsibility, and cooperation is the key to a secure digital future.