ALECSO: Cybersecurity is Key to Digital Sovereignty in the AI Era

Mohamed Ben Amor, Secretary-General of the Arab Organization for Information and Communication Technologies (ALECSO), stressed that cybersecurity is no longer just a technical tool to protect systems and networks. Instead, it has become a sovereign and strategic pillar to ensure digital trust and support the sustainability of digital transformation. This is especially true given the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence applications and the increasing reliance on data and digital platforms to manage economies and vital services. This statement came during his opening speech at the CAISEC 2026 event held in Cairo. The event saw wide participation from experts, decision-makers, and representatives of regional and international institutions and organizations working in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. Ben Amor explained that the world isn't just witnessing a technical digital transformation; it's going through a "comprehensive re-engineering of the global digital space." In this new landscape, data and digital platforms have become essential components in the equation of power and sustainable development. This situation requires countries and institutions to adopt integrated visions to enhance digital sovereignty and protect infrastructure from rapidly evolving cyber risks. He pointed out that this year's conference reflects a growing trend towards strengthening regional and international integration in confronting digital threats. This is evident through the strategic partnership between ALECSO and the Smart Africa organization, which embodies a shared will to build a more secure, resilient, and capable digital space to face increasing cyber challenges. The Secretary-General of ALECSO praised the extensive international participation in the conference. He emphasized that the presence of specialized institutions and bodies adds an important dimension to the dialogue about the future of cybersecurity, AI governance, and boosting trust in digital systems. This comes at a time when there's a growing need to develop regulatory and standard frameworks that keep pace with rapid technological advancements. He stressed that confronting cyber threats is no longer the sole responsibility of a single country or institution. Instead, it requires continuous coordination and Arab, African, and international cooperation based on exchanging expertise, unifying visions, and building capabilities. This ensures the protection of the digital space and enhances institutions' readiness to deal with emerging risks. Ben Amor proposed what he called a "dual agenda" that links artificial intelligence as a driver for economic growth and development, with cybersecurity as the guarantor of this growth's sustainability and the protection of digital trust. He affirmed that successful digital transformation requires integrating cybersecurity considerations into all digital projects from the very first planning stages. He also called for adopting a "security by design" approach as one of the main pathways to build secure, resilient digital systems capable of withstanding future threats. This approach aims to achieve a balance between innovation, data protection, and establishing digital trust. He clarified that the Arab Organization for Information and Communication Technologies will focus on three main strategic priorities in the upcoming phase. These include investing in developing "digital human capital" and specialized skills, strengthening Arab, African, and international partnerships, and developing proactive digital governance frameworks capable of addressing emerging challenges and risks in the digital environment.