Hey there, Bay Area friends! Let’s take a minute to chat about something that affects us all, whether we realize it or not. You know, the one thing we all love to hate but can’t live without – security, specifically, national security. We’ve all got our own systems, our own little failsafe rituals to keep our homes and our bodies safe. But when it comes to the security of an entire nation, well, that’s a whole other ballgame, isn’t it?
Let’s consider our pals in Ireland. It seems they’ve been working on a national security strategy for so long it might feel like they’re trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. This saga started way back in 2018 when their government wanted to establish a strategic threat analysis center, an all-seeing eye to help keep the Emerald Isle safe and sound. Set slap bang in the middle of co-ordinating their various intelligence agencies, it ought to provide top-notch defense analyses and functions.
Two years down the line, in 2019, they started calling this hub the National Security Analysis Centre. Fair enough, it has a nice ring to it. They even appointed a director to take the reins, and began public consultation on a security strategy that would see them safe until 2025. But somehow, it’s 2022 and they’re still without a completed strategy. Imagine finally assembling a state-of-the-art home security system, and then leaving the front door unlocked.
It’s hard to say whether it was unavoidable circumstances, like the global pandemic, or something else causing the delay, but it has left a noticeable effect. This crumbling security situation has been marked with cyberattacks from a Russian hacker group on their healthcare systems and a worryingly close physical presence of Russian naval vessels. On top of that, valid concerns over the safety of their undersea data cables and energy pipelines are mounting.
But it’s not just outside threats that cause concern, in the heartland, an ascent of far-right groups and related violence has led to threats against high-ranking politicians. The potential for domestic terrorism, from radicalisation and disinformation tactics on social media, is a cause for worry.
This isn’t just me blabbing either. Folks like Professor Ben Tonra and Professor Andrew Cottey have been speaking their minds on the issue. They’ve outlined how this failure to present a security strategy paints a grim picture, especially since Ireland’s been dealing with some pretty heavy stuff, including the threats mentioned.
They also point out how out of step Ireland is with most European countries, who have clear national security strategies in place. In our modern age, where everything from cyber threats to subversion activities represents real danger, you’d think a secure strategy would be a top priority, wouldn’t you?
To make matters worse, proposed strengthening measures for their security and intelligence seem stalled. There’s talk about ring-fenced budgets, direct recruitment, and fancy legal and tech experts, but it seems like most of this is off the table for now.
So, fellow Bay Areans, as we sip on our chai lattes and catch the latest Warriors game, let’s spare a thought for our Irish friends. While we grapple with our own beasts in healthcare and cybersecurity, they have their battles. We’re all in this together, aren’t we? Let’s keep pushing for better, faster, and stronger security measures across the globe – remember, the rising tide lifts all boats. Stay safe, folks!
by Morgan Phisher | HEAL Security
