Nepal’s Cybersecurity Index Setback: A Call for Action

As Nepal celebrates its decade of information technology, the latest Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024 report reveals troubling news. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Nepal has fallen six spots, landing at 100th out of 194 countries. This decline underscores the urgent need for improvements in the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure.

A Disheartening Trend of Nepal in Global Cybersecurity Index

In just four years, Nepal has slipped from 94th place in 2020, showing that while other countries advance, Nepal struggles to keep pace. The GCI evaluates nations based on various factors, including legal frameworks, technical infrastructure, organizational capabilities, capacity development, and international cooperation. Nepal scored 69.76 out of 100, indicating significant weaknesses across multiple areas.

Global Cybersecurity Index Rankings

To provide context, here’s how some South Asian countries Cybersecurity Index rank:

India – 29th
Bangladesh – 38th
Pakistan – 41st
Sri Lanka – 72nd
Nepal – 100th
Bhutan – 116th
Afghanistan – 180th
Maldives – 185th

As the data shows, Nepal ranks fifth in South Asia, trailing behind stronger performers like India and Bangladesh. Notably, Sri Lanka is 28 spots ahead, highlighting the pressing need for Nepal to enhance its cybersecurity efforts.

Nepal's Cybersecurity Index 2024 — Nepal’s Cybersecurity Index 2024

Legal Frameworks and Institutional Efforts

Despite the setback, Nepal has made some strides in legal aspects of cybersecurity. The report notes that Nepal scored 19.21 out of 20 in developing and implementing laws related to cybercrime. However, in institutional capacity, it only managed 16.92 out of 20. This reflects a lack of comprehensive national strategies and accountability mechanisms.

Additionally, the report highlights that while Nepal has established a Cybersecurity Strategy, its implementation has been average at best. There’s a pressing need for well-defined roles and responsibilities among government agencies.

Technical Challenges

Technical capabilities remain a critical concern. Nepal received a low score of 11.09 out of 20 for technical measures. The ITU recommends establishing a fully functional Cybersecurity Operations Center. While there’s an Emergency Response Team (ERT) in place, it lacks the necessary activity levels. The government must prioritize the activation and enhancement of this team to respond to cyber incidents effectively.

Capacity Building and Public Awareness

Another alarming finding is the minimal investment in capacity building. Nepal scored 13.09 out of 20 in this area. Experts have urged the government to promote cybersecurity education through training programs and inclusion in academic curricula. Creating awareness among citizens about cybersecurity threats is essential for building a resilient digital landscape.

Moreover, vocational training initiatives can significantly improve public knowledge and engagement in cybersecurity practices. The government needs to prioritize this area to develop a skilled workforce that can tackle cyber threats effectively.

Cooperation and International Engagement

Cooperation between government and private entities is essential for effective cybersecurity. The report indicates that Nepal has scored 9.45 out of 20 in this category, highlighting a need for stronger bilateral and multilateral agreements. Collaborative efforts can lead to better information sharing and a coordinated response to cyber threats.

Engaging in international dialogues and partnerships can help Nepal learn from best practices and bolster its cybersecurity capabilities.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

Nepal’s cybersecurity index landscape reflects the urgent need for reforms and a proactive approach. As the government aims to make this decade a technological era, prioritizing cybersecurity is vital for achieving that vision. Without addressing these issues, the risks to the nation’s digital infrastructure will continue to grow, hindering potential economic progress and international collaboration.

For Nepal to regain its footing in cybersecurity index, it must invest in legal frameworks, technical capabilities, education, and cooperation. Only then can the country hope to rise in the GCI rankings and secure its digital future.