The State Department formally launched its new Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy on Monday, aimed at emerging technology issues in diplomacy
According to a statement, the bureau will address the “national security challenges, economic opportunities, and implications for U.S. values associated with cyberspace, digital technologies, and digital policy.”
The new bureau will consist of three units, including International Cyberspace Security, International Information and Communications Policy and Digital Freedom, per The Hill.
It will eventually be led by a Senate-confirmed ambassador. For the meantime, Jennifer Bachus, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, will serve as principal deputy assistant secretary until an appointee is confirmed.
Additionally, Michele Markoff will serve as Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Cyberspace Security, Stephen Anderson as Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Information and Communications Policy, and Blake Peterson as Acting Digital Freedom Coordinator.
The State Department said it will also focus on hiring individuals with science and technology expertise to address emerging threats.
“By taking these steps, we will be better able to make sure that the United States remains the world’s innovation leader and standard setter,” Antony Blinken said last year.
