Dr. Khatuna Burkadze underlined: „Because of cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, the Georgian government needs to adopt a strategy for countering hybrid threats. The strategy for countering hybrid threats should define types of modern hybrid threats, to determine their non-military characteristics, tactics and analyze possible impacts on the country’s political, economic lives. As well, it should focus on solutions to overcome these challenges.“

Dr. Khatuna Burkadze mentioned that the strategy will set out the mechanism for countering these challenges. Particularly, it will consist of three components (based on the experience of North Atlantic Alliance):

1) To be prepared for hybrid threats – It means to gather information on possible hybrid activities and analyze these data, to equip decision-makers with appropriate information and knowledge;

2) To deter hybrid threats – It considers to take measures to ensure institutional development of governmental institutions and prevent negative and destructive effects of hybrid challenges;

3) To defend itself against any hybrid threat – If deterrence fails to achieve a strategic goal, it is essential to develop defence abilities to be able to rapidly react in cases of hybrid actions.

She emphasized that the strategy for countering hybrid threats can consider the establishment of the intergovernmental group. In a long-term perspective, this group will provide the development of an institutional mechanism for countering hybrid threats.

To read the interview with Dr. Khatuna Burkadze please click here