Ahead of the first substantive plenary of the UN Global Mechanism, EU Cyber Direct – EU Cyber Diplomacy Initiative convened the inaugural Cyber Diplomacy Compass in New York on 16–17 July 2026. Bringing together UN delegates and expert stakeholders from across regions and sectors, the two-day event created a dedicated space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and practical collaboration on the opportunities and challenges shaping the Global Mechanism's first substantive cycle.
The programme featured discussions on the implementation of norms, international law in cyberspace, cyber capacity-building, and the implications of artificial intelligence for responsible State behaviour. Participants also took part in a collaborative cyber diplomacy scenario exercise, applying cross-community cooperation to a realistic cyber governance challenge.
Highlights of the programme included two fireside chats with H.E. Ambassador Egriselda López, Chair of the first biennium of the UN Global Mechanism, and Katherine Prizeman of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), who shared reflections on the priorities, opportunities, and future direction of the Global Mechanism.
The event report provides an overview of the discussions, key takeaways from each session, and reflections on how stronger engagement between diplomatic and expert communities can support the work of the UN Global Mechanism in the years ahead.
Read the full event report here.
