Enhancing Cybersecurity Capacity: Thailand’s Challenges and Responses in the Context of Hybrid Warfare
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Abstract
Over the past five years, international conflicts have increasingly adopted complex strategies, particularly cyberattacks, which enable conflicting parties to achieve strategic objectives without deploying large-scale military forces. This trend is evident in hybrid wars such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict and the Gaza conflict. This study examines Thailand’s capacity to respond to cyberattacks in the event of a similar conflict scenario. It assesses which dimensions of cybersecurity capabilities require development in comparison to international case studies. The research employs secondary data on cyberattack patterns and defense mechanisms from the Russia–Ukraine and Gaza conflicts, along with in-depth interviews with Thai cybersecurity firms to reflect the national context. A comparative analysis is conducted across five dimensions: (1) legal measures, (2) technical measures, (3) organizational measures, (4) capacity building, and (5) cooperation. The study proposes strategic guidelines to enhance Thailand’s cybersecurity posture. It finds that Thailand has established key legislation, including the Cybersecurity Act B.E. 2562 (2019), as well as other supporting laws. However, significant challenges remain in strengthening technical capabilities, improving institutional integration, and raising public awareness. Furthermore, laying the foundation for cyber sovereignty is deemed essential for securing Thailand’s long-term national security.
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