RESPONSE TO HYBRID THREATS: POLICIES, CONCEPTS AND STRATEGIC APPROACHES

Abstract

In a changing security environment in Europe, hybrid threats have become a major challenge that requires a comprehensive and adaptive response. Hybrid threats include conventional and unconventional approaches, such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, conspiracy theories, economic coercion, and external warfare, to undermine security, stability and democratic institutions in the region.
Disinformation campaigns or conspiracy theories can be constructed for strategic purposes (for example: to inform or warn others) in order to manipulate, provoke and target specific people or groups for financial or political reasons. Especially in less democratic countries, the purpose of conspiracy theory is to create a feeling that there is a gap between those citizens who feel excluded from decision making or feel powerless of their choices, while decreasing their intention to be included into the political process of voting. However, on the other hand, conspiracy theory can be used as a tactic for politicians, too. A great example is a example of Hungary, where politicians were using the Great Replacement conspiracy theory against refugees and EU policies mobilizing Hungarians to achieve his political goals.
The changing nature of hybrid threats poses complex challenges to European security, as they blur the boundaries between military and non-military action, state and non-state actors, and the physical and virtual spheres.
This article analyses the possible response to hybrid threats, introducing the main actors, under discussions true the policies, concepts and strategic approaches, main focusing on the case of Europe. The article reviews different theories, discussing key concepts and possible cooperation frameworks and the analysis of the legal regulation.