The Open-ended Working Group (OEWG) on security of and in the use of information and communications technologies (ICTs) 2021-2025 has completed its four-year mandate. In its final report, adopted by consensus, the OEWG establishes a global mechanism on ICTs in the context of international security that will advance responsible State behavior in their use.

In a statement, UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the agreement to establish the mechanism, calling upon “all States to work together through the Global Mechanism to tackle digital risks and ensure these technologies are leveraged for good.” He said the OEWG’s achievements “demonstrate that even in the most challenging international security environment, collective action is still possible.”

The UN General Assembly established the OEWG on 31 December 2020 in its resolution 75/240. Chaired by Permanent Representative of Singapore Burhan Gafoor, the Working Group held 11 substantive sessions, with the last session convening from 7-11 July 2025.

In its final report, representing a “fine balance” of the views expressed, the OEWG recognizes malicious ICT activities and malicious software among existing and potential threats. It notes that while artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing are expanding development opportunities, there is a need to ensure the safety and security of AI systems as well as the data used to train AI models.

The report notes that voluntary, non-binding norms of responsible State behavior can reduce risks to international peace, security, and stability and reflects the Working Group’s discussions on the application of international law in the use of ICTs.

The report outlines elements for the ‘Global Mechanism on developments in the field of ICTs in the context of international security and advancing responsible State behaviour in the use of ICTs,’ including dedicated thematic groups to: address specific challenges in the sphere of ICT security in the context of international security; and accelerate ICT security capacity building. Both thematic groups envision the participation of capacity-building experts, practitioners, and other stakeholders.

States will continue discussions from the OEWG through the new permanent mechanism. Following its formal approval by the UN General Assembly (UNGA), the Global Mechanism is expected to convene its organizational session no later than March 2026. [Open-ended Working Group on Security of and in the Use of Information and Communications Technologies]