Mongolia Conducts CMM Review to Bolster Digital Capabilities

This week Mongolia has taken a significant step forward in its cybersecurity efforts by commencing its first Cybersecurity Capacity Maturity Model for Nations (CMM) review. This review, which was facilitated by the GCSCC on behalf of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications (MDDIC), marks a critical milestone in Mongolia's ongoing efforts to secure its digital infrastructure amid growing technological threats.

The Mongolian CMM review is being conducted with the support of key international stakeholders, including the UK and Japan. The United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are jointly funding the review and providing necessary on the ground logistical support. The joint project between MDDIC, JICA, the FCDO and the GCSCC highlights the strong partnerships that Mongolia has cultivated to strengthen its cybersecurity framework.

As Mongolia continues to embrace digital transformation, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has become more pressing. The CMM review is providing a platform for evaluating Mongolia’s cybersecurity maturity across various sectors, bringing together representatives from government agencies, universities, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, and international bodies.

Miyagi Kensuke, the Chief Representative of JICA’s Mongolia Office, emphasised the significance of this review, stating:

This survey convened a diverse group of stakeholders to assess the state of cybersecurity in Mongolia. We believe that the findings will offer valuable insights into the country's current capacity and guide future initiatives.

The British Ambassador to Mongolia, Fiona Blyth, who was present at the CMM focus groups, underscored the importance of such collaborative efforts. She remarked,

Cybersecurity knows no borders, and regional collaboration is essential in addressing the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats. This partnership between the UK, Mongolia, and Japan is a testament to our shared commitment to secure cyberspace and foster innovation and collaboration.

The CMM review represents not just an assessment but a roadmap for Mongolia’s cybersecurity future. With the rapid digitisation of public services and the economy, Mongolia faces challenges such as enhancing digital literacy, building cybersecurity expertise, and protecting critical infrastructure from increasingly complex cyber threats. Through initiatives such as this, Mongolia is taking proactive steps to secure its digital future.

With over 90 countries having undergone the CMM review, Mongolia joins a growing list of nations dedicated to improving their cybersecurity postures. The results of this review are expected to inform more targeted and measurable interventions, paving the way for a safer and more secure digital environment.

As Mongolia looks to the future, this collaboration with international partners signals a strong commitment to not only enhancing national security but also fostering a more stable and prosperous cyberspace for all.

If you are interesting in conducting a CMM review or stay up to date about the CMM in Mongolia please email cybercapacity@cs.ox.ac.uk