Cybersecurity: EU Parliament votes to strengthen EU cybersecurity - by Clare Murphy

"The leak was worse than we first thought"

EU MEPs voted to ensure continued cybersecurity across the EU on 16 April by granting the European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) an extended seven-year mandate to strengthen and modernize their system.

The plenary vote (646 for, 45 against) is the result of extensive political debate between Council members and Parliament. With further support being handed to ENISA, the newest regulation that was adopted on February 8 can go into effect. The goal of this regulation is to help the EU, it’s member states and private stakeholders develop their capabilities and preparedness to prevent, detect and respond to cyber-security challenges. Furthermore, ENISA will play a greater role in the EU Cybersecurity strategy that was adopted in January.

"Today's vote offers a new start for a new ENISA: with expanded tasks, a more agile and efficient organization and governance,” said Commission Vice President Neelie Kroes. “This will help secure European networks and information systems, in line with our cybersecurity strategy."

Read more: Parliament votes to strengthen EU cybersecurity | New Europe