The application of international law in cyberspace: is there a European way?

International law, and in particular the Charter of the United Nations, is the backbone of international relations and is crucial for maintaining international peace and security. Despite this, the application of international law to cyberspace and cyber operations has been a matter of controversy. The contentious question has been whether cyberspace constitutes a new “Wild Wild West” or whether existing international legal provisions provide sufficient guidance and guarantees for states’ relations in cyberspace. This question has been settled both theoretically in academic literature as well as by state practice: International law applies to cyberspace and cyber operations.