The European Commission recently unveiled its internal security strategy, ProtectEU, to address the changing security environment and evolving threats. The strategy emphasizes the need to review Europe’s approach to internal security, especially in light of geopolitical changes. One of the central elements of the strategy is the proposal to enhance Europol’s role, positioning it as a more operational police agency, akin to the FBI in the U.S. This would involve Europol supporting member states in large-scale investigations of cross-border and complex criminal cases threatening the EU’s internal security.
ProtectEU also outlines the Commission’s plans to address encryption and lawful access to data. It calls for the identification of technological solutions that would enable law enforcement to access encrypted data legally while protecting cybersecurity and fundamental rights. This is a highly controversial issue, as attempts to introduce such solutions elsewhere have faced significant challenges and resistance.
The Commission’s goal is to balance the need for effective law enforcement with the protection of privacy and security for individuals.
In addition to these measures, ProtectEU acknowledges existing gaps in the EU’s defense, security, and intelligence capabilities. The Commission highlights the importance of improving intelligence-sharing among member states, including enhancing the Single Intelligence Analysis Capacity (SIAC). However, the strategy faces a significant hurdle in that defense and security matters remain largely within the domain of individual member states. This limitation is a key factor in the difficulties the EU faces in achieving collective action on major security issues, as pointed out in a report by former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö.
Lastly, the Commission plans to introduce a new Cybersecurity Act, despite the fact that member states have not fully implemented existing cybersecurity laws. The strategy underscores the need for greater technological sovereignty, enhanced cybersecurity, and a more proactive approach to combating security threats. As Henna Virkkunen, the Commission’s executive vice-president for tech sovereignty, security, and democracy, stated, the EU must be bold in addressing security challenges to ensure the safety and prosperity of its member states.
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