On 30 October, the European Academy of Diplomacy hosted an interactive webinar exploring the growing role of cybersecurity in protecting democracy and fostering civic engagement in the digital age.

The session was led by Kinjal Dave, a Defence and Cybersecurity Consultant at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, with over eight years of professional experience in the field and a graduate of the Academy of Young Diplomats.

Participants explored key digital threats to democracy and civic spaces, discussed the challenges of protecting individuals and organisations online, and gained practical knowledge of how to strengthen digital security.

The webinar combined practical exercises, experience-sharing and open discussion. It also provided an opportunity to reflect on how individuals, institutions and communities can work together to create a safer digital environment.

We are particularly pleased to have welcomed an AYD alumna as an expert speaker once again. Her contribution is an excellent example of how the knowledge and experience gained through the programme translate into active engagement in important international discussions.