FGGA's Cyber Week: research and innovation for a better digital world
During Cyberweek from 17-24 October, the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs (FGGA) spotlighted its research and teaching on cybersecurity, digital developments, and their societal impact.
Each day, cyber-related research was highlighted on the faculty’s social media channels, where researchers from various institutes shared insights into the digital world’s future and the challenges facing public organisations in this rapidly changing environment. Below is a summary of the research showcased during the week.
Responsible AI integration in the public sector
PhD candidate Friso Selten at the Institute of Public Administration is investigating how government organisations can responsibly and effectively implement artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT. His research focuses on digital innovations within public institutions, drawing from interviews with managers and technical professionals at Dutch government agencies.
The results reveal different approaches to AI integration: some organisations create structured innovation teams, while others allow employees the freedom to experiment. Selten concludes that a hybrid approach, combining both strategies, is the most effective for digital innovation. He emphasises that rapid developments in generative AI necessitate continuous evaluation and improvement within government organisations to enhance efficiency and deliver better public services.
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Cybersecurity integration in software and government Policy
PhD candidate Parto Mirzaei, specialising in Cyber Security and Public Governance at the Institute of Security and Global Affairs, investigates how cybersecurity can be effectively embedded into software development and government policy through the C-SIDE project. The project highlights the often unclear definition of ‘Security by Design’, which leads to varying interpretations and applications by developers. The project has resulted in an extensive dataset on cybersecurity vulnerabilities and guidelines for ethical decision-making in digital security. A comprehensive overview of Dutch government agencies involved in cybersecurity governance has also been created.
Mirzaei stresses that dependency on digital systems increases vulnerability, making it essential to educate future experts through the new bachelor's programme in Cybersecurity & Cybercrime.
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The complex interaction between international law and digital technology
Assistant Professor Barrie Sander at Leiden University College focuses on the complex interaction between international law and digital technologies, with a particular emphasis on human rights and the governance of digital platforms. His research began with the legal implications of cyber interference in Brazilian elections and expanded to explore the application of human rights to the regulation of digital platforms and content management. His findings have led to publications in academic journals and form the foundation for new collaborative projects that critically reflect on the legal challenges and opportunities in digital regulation. This research remains relevant in a time of continuous digital developments.
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Gamification in cybersecurity education
Cristina Del Real, a researcher at the Institute of Security and Global Affairs, explores how gamification can contribute to cybersecurity education with her project ‘Unlock the Cyber Crisis’. This escape room-style game teaches students to handle cyber threats and promotes teamwork and problem-solving. By integrating realistic scenarios, the game makes theoretical concepts practically relevant.
This innovative educational tool is now part of the bachelor's programme in Cybersecurity & Cybercrime and the master’s in Crisis and Security Management, equipping students to face future digital security challenges.
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Strengthening cybersecurity: The Hague Programme on International Cyber Security
The Hague Programme on International Cyber Security, part of the Institute of Security and Global Affairs at Leiden University, has been active since 2017, connecting academics, policymakers, and experts to address global cyber challenges. Supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the programme serves as a collaboration hub and focuses on enhancing knowledge about cyber norms and digital world developments.
Each year, the programme organises two major events: an academic conference in November and the Hague Threat Intelligence Exchange (Hague TIX). By bringing together academics and professionals, the network of Associate Fellows strengthens collaboration with national and international cybersecurity experts. These joint efforts contribute to a better understanding of cyber norms and the evolution of the digital world.
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Deepfakes and fake news: the history of political misinformation and conspiracy theories
Assistant Professor Jacqueline Hylkema at Leiden University College researches the history of fake news and conspiracy theories in the Netherlands. She demonstrates that understanding deepfakes and fake news requires studying the historical roots of today’s online deception. Misinformation played a crucial role in politics even during the Eighty Years' War. Kicking off Cyber Week, Hylkema delivered an interactive lecture featuring historical examples of political misinformation, such as the Dutch invasion of England in 1688, drawing parallels with fake news during the COVID-19 crisis. She examines the similarities and differences between past and present and discusses the dangers of political deception.
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Impact of AI on government organisations
Assistant Professor Hsini Huang at the Institute of Public Administration investigates the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the capabilities and decision-making of public officials in Taiwanese government organisations. Her research examines the interplay between human and artificial discretion within administrative processes. Experiments with officials reveal both the benefits and challenges of AI applications, such as image recognition and predictive analytics, in decision-making. Huang notes that the rise of generative AI (GenAI) presents new possibilities for knowledge creation, but more research is needed to understand the transformation of bureaucratic thinking and public bureaucracies so organisations can continue functioning effectively in the digital age.
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Digital solutions for decision-making
Assistant Professor Marco Cinelli at Leiden University College is developing digital tools to make complex information about energy technologies accessible to decision-makers. His interactive and customisable solutions help policymakers and the public make informed decisions in multi-stakeholder situations.
One example is an index that assesses the safety, sustainability, and circularity of products, with modules for individual assessments and a summary score. Cinelli emphasises that these digital solutions are essential for transparent decision-making processes, enabling all stakeholders to contribute to shared decisions.
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Cyberweek showcased a portion of the diverse expertise and research at The Hague-based Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs (FGGA), which plays a leading role in developing knowledge and innovative solutions in cybersecurity and digital governance. The Hague, as the international city of peace and justice, contributes to global progress in digital resilience and complex security issues.
It’s important to note that only a small portion of ongoing cybersecurity research was covered; FGGA has much more to offer in this area. Follow the faculty on LinkedIn and explore our research projects to stay updated.
Text: Benedicte Dobbinga en Peter Koekoek