Its Not the System, Its the Human: Leveraging Civilian Capability in Cyber Operations

The project will examine how Estonia incorporates civilian experts and volunteers into its national cyber defence, and what ethical, legal, and governance challenges arise from this growing role. By reviewing existing research, mapping Estonias cyber-volunteer ecosystem, and speaking with experts, the project will identify how democracies can safely and responsibly work with civilian cyber operators. This collaboration benefits both institutions: TalTech gains a partner with expertise in ethics, human rights, and governance, while the Université de Montréal gains access to Estonias unique digital society environment and leading cybersecurity networks. The project strengthens long-term research ties and supports the development of new comparative knowledge that is valuable to both countries.

Faculty Supervisor:

Bryn Williams-Jones

Student:

Partner:

Tallinn University of Technology

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Cyber Security; Information and Communications Technology (ICT); Technology

University:

Université de Montréal

Program: