The implementation of the NIS2 Directive and the Cybersecurity Act in the Czech Republic brings new opportunities and challenges. Effective cooperation between the public and private sectors and flexible adaptation of legislation to the constant evolution of cyber threats are key. The Czech implementation of the Cyber Law is part of the European efforts to strengthen cyber security. It also raises the question of coordinating the EU cyber strategy and finding a balance between security measures and innovation for the competitiveness of the digital economy.

The European NIS Directive2 and the draft new law on cyber security in the Czech Republic reflect evolutionary trends in the context of growing cyber threats. The approval of NIS2 in December 2022 showed that the European Union is aware of the complexity of today's cyber challenges and is working to prevent potential threats. The introduction of the directive into Czech legislation through a new law reflects the desire to adapt to current challenges and strengthen overall cyber resilience.

The draft law on cyber security in the Czech Republic highlights the need to modernise the legal framework to better reflect current and future cyber threats. It emphasises the expansion of regulated entities and the implementation of new processes and tools to strengthen cybersecurity. At the same time, it introduces measures aimed at ensuring the security of supply chains to reduce dependence on external suppliers as a potential strategic threat.

From a European perspective, the harmonisation of legal frameworks between Member States is a key step towards overall strengthening of cyber security within the European Union. This harmonisation of approaches across the EU is helping to create a single standard for cyber security, enabling effective responses to the challenges of the modern cyber age. The implementation of NIS2 and the new law on cyber security is thus not just a legislative step, but a strategic step towards strengthening the overall security of the Czech Republic and the European cyber space.

The increase in cyber threats demanded action, and so the National Cyber and Information Security Bureau (NCIS) introduced an innovative law on cyber security. This legislation introduces new processes, tools and simplifications to the legislation contained in the proposal, highlighting their potential benefits to strengthen the Czech Republic's cyber resilience.

The new legal framework encourages the expansion of the NCIB's competences and provides tools for far-reaching monitoring and protection of cyber assets in the Czech Republic. It also brings measures to protect strategically important sectors, where the need to have control over supply chains is emphasised. These measures not only reduce the risk of cyber attacks, but also strengthen the Czech Republic's sovereignty in the area of cyber security.

In parallel with strengthening cybersecurity at national level, the NIS2 and the Czech law represent a significant step towards coordination and harmonisation within the EU. Effective cooperation in the field of cybersecurity is essential, especially at a time when threats cross borders and can have a systemic impact. Harmonisation of regulations and standards within the EU allows for faster and more effective responses to new threats and thus strengthens the collective resilience of Member States. In this way, the Czech Republic is actively contributing to building a unified and resilient European cyber infrastructure.

The implementation of the NIS2 Directive and the Cybersecurity Act in the Czech Republic brings new opportunities but also challenges. Effective cooperation between the public and private sectors, including other stakeholders and interested parties, is crucial for the successful implementation of these measures. It is important to pay attention to the constant evolution of cyber threats and to flexibly adapt legislation to adequately reflect these threats. This implementation in the Czech Republic is not an isolated effort, but part of a broader European effort to strengthen cybersecurity. The question then is how the EU will continue to coordinate its cyber strategy, including the possible further development of the NIS2 Directive. Member States are expected to work together to strike the optimal balance between security measures and fostering innovation, which is essential for the competitiveness of the digital economy.

In the context of global interconnection of digital spaces, it is crucial to strengthen international cooperation. The Czech Republic and the EU can actively contribute to shaping international cybersecurity standards and strengthening global cybersecurity stability. Participation in international initiatives and partnerships enables more effective resistance to threats that know no borders.

At the same time, it is important to support education and information campaigns aimed at raising cyber awareness in civil society. Security awareness in the population is key to overall cyber resilience. Broad collaboration between the public and private sectors in this area strengthens society's ability to quickly identify and respond to cyber risks.

The implementation of the NIS2 Directive and the new Cybersecurity Act paves the way for further steps in the field of cybersecurity in the Czech Republic and the EU. However, it is necessary to monitor not only the dynamic nature of cyber threats, but also to respond flexibly to new technological developments. Future success will depend on the ability to adapt to changing challenges and to create an innovative and resilient cyber ecosystem.