Press release on the SCO member states' initiative titled, ‘The Code of Conduct for International Information Security’

The document is based on an approach set forth in the draft of the Code of Conduct released on behalf of the SCO member states during the 66thsession of the UN General Assembly in 2011. The revised edition of the Code of Conduct is based on the new realities and proposals submitted by the states concerned.

Peacemaking is the hallmark of the SCO initiative. Unlike concepts involving the regulation of cyber warfare, our document is designed to prevent conflicts in the information space. It enshrines the obligation of states not to use information and communications technology for purposes of violating international peace and security, or for interfering in the internal affairs of other countries and undermining their political, economic and social stability. In addition, the Code of Conduct provides for the obligation of the states to refrain from the use of force or the threat to use force in settling international disputes in the digital realm.

In terms of substance, the updated Code of Conduct is different from its previous version in the following ways.

First, it includes an expanded human rights section that enshrines a balanced approach to these matters based on responsibilities. The document notes that the rights that the people enjoy offline must also be protected online. However, enjoying such rights may be subject to certain restrictions in accordance with Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Second, due to the fact that ensuring IIS is inextricably linked with internationalisation of the Internet governance, these issues have been included in the Code of Conduct as a separate provision.

Third, the SCO document focuses particularly on capacity building in the sphere of information security and assisting developing countries in overcoming the digital gap.

The Code of Conduct is open to accession by other states as co-authors.