Securization of cyberspace: The case of NATO

In the 21st century, security is extremely important for actors in the international arena. If there is anything as crucial as security for actors, it is time and information. The security of information and its constant accessibility are considered the most critical elements today. Information security is essential not only for traditional security paradigms but also for expanding security approaches today. Therefore, information security has become an issue that actors attach great importance to. While keeping information secure, it is also necessary to make it accessible, which makes the security of information difficult. Technological developments are accelerating rapidly, and much of what we do in our daily lives can now be accomplished through tangible assets thanks to technology. This structure, formed by tangible assets connected through network systems, has created cyberspace. It has greatly facilitated information storage, constant accessibility, and time savings. However, it has also introduced challenges related to secure storage and continuous accessibility. This study, grounded in the Copenhagen School theoretical framework, explores the escalating cybersecurity issues driven by technological development. It focuses on the level of the relationship between cyberspace and securitization theory, and whether it is suitable for securitization. As an example of this examination, NATO's view of cyberspace, which updates itself by developing new security concepts after the Cold War, is examined. The approach of this organization, which is the largest security organization in the world and whose members are mostly major states, will provide us with insight into the global perspective.