Claudia Plattner, the new president of Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), aims to strengthen cybersecurity efforts by leveraging the levers of the European Union to improve cybersecurity not only in Germany but across the continent.
As a trained mathematician and former director general for information systems at the European Central Bank, Plattner believes that collaboration at the European level is essential to combat cyber threats effectively.
By focusing on the European level, the BSI intends to have a more significant influence on shaping European legislation to drive cybersecurity improvements and foster strong partnerships.
The BSI’s push for a more significant influence over European legislation comes as the Interior Ministry also seeks to solidify the agency’s position within Germany, where numerous state-based offices have similar functions. While the BSI is dedicated to providing cybersecurity advice to federal agencies and driving improvements between states, it will remain separate from Germany’s federal criminal police office (BKA), which takes the national lead on cybercrime.
However, the BSI has been working to assert its political independence after a scandal involving its former president’s association with a business connected to Russian intelligence services.
Plattner emphasizes the importance of putting facts on the table and providing expert technical advice independently of other government departments’ agendas. The BSI is determined to be heard and recognized as the expert authority when it comes to cybersecurity matters.
While acknowledging the complexity of cybersecurity issues and the need for a holistic perspective, the BSI remains committed to providing its own expertise and collaborating with other stakeholders to effectively address cyber threats.
Richter, the representative from the Interior Ministry, recognizes the BSI’s vital role in Germany’s cyber architecture and praises Plattner for championing an independent approach in bringing up cybersecurity topics.
