Urgent need for a common framework for security screening
The problems with security checks across Nordic borders are at the expense of the Nordic region's overall security. At a time of deteriorating security and persistent hybrid threats, cybersecurity has become a high priority. Our member companies are investing heavily in security, but further measures are needed to support their work.
With Finland and Sweden as new members of NATO, together with Norway and Denmark, the Nordic region has a historic opportunity to strengthen its digital resilience. However, practical obstacles in the security screening of employees risk slowing down efforts to further increase protection.
Effective cybersecurity work requires access to the right specialists. However, security clearance processes are currently so lengthy and vary so much between the Nordic countries that they reduce mobility, slow down the exchange of information, and delay action.
That is why the Nordic industry organizations within IT and tech are issuing a joint appeal:
We must quickly create a common Nordic framework for security checks in order to better protect ourselves. The Nordic industry organizations behind the appeal are TechSverige in Sweden, IT-Branchen in Denmark, FiCom in Finland, and Tek Norge in Norway.
"We welcome the Swedish government's decision to fundamentally review the security clearance system, but the process could take several years. In the meantime, Swedish authorities must take steps to make the current security clearance process smoother and faster—especially when it comes to neighboring Nordic countries," concludes Åsa Zetterberg, CEO of TechSverige.
"We must establish a common Nordic framework for security screening based on NATO principles. In the meantime, we look forward to close dialogue with the authorities to find a practical solution that will immediately improve the conditions for IT and telecom companies to operate and protect critical digital infrastructure in the Nordic region," says Natasha Friis Saxberg, CEO of IT-Branchen.
New measures are needed to facilitate cooperation on security across the Nordic region.”
From Tek Norge, CEO Øyvind Husby warns of the same thing:
“The Nordic governments and NATO emphasize the need for strong cybersecurity and urge companies to contribute. But governments also have a responsibility. New measures are needed to facilitate cooperation on security across the Nordic region. Decisions cannot be postponed any longer. Delays will come at the expense of the Nordic region’s overall security.”
The solution to the problem is within reach, but now requires political action. Four measures are prioritized:
- A political decision: The Nordic governments must agree on a common framework for security checks and commit to a binding timetable.
- Harmonized processes: Security authorities should, in close cooperation with companies, develop a faster cross-border model for security screening. Specialists should be able to undergo security screening through a unified process that applies throughout the Nordic region.
- Implementation and follow-up: The new model will be put into practice, tested through joint exercises, and firmly established within NATO cooperation.
- A temporary solution: The Nordic countries should enter into an agreement that makes it easier for digital infrastructure and security personnel to move across national borders here and now.
Cybersecurity is not just about preventive measures; it is an integral part of society's overall security. A strong and robust digital infrastructure is crucial for a resilient society.
"Cybersecurity depends on highly qualified specialists, and it is crucial to be able to security clear them. Today, security clearance processes vary across the Nordic region and can take more than a year. This hinders the mobility of experts, slows down the exchange of information, and weakens our ability to respond quickly to cyber threats," says Elina Ussa, CEO of FiCom.
The Nordic countries have a long tradition of cooperation. Now this cooperation should be taken to the next level within NATO. Harmonizing security screening procedures is the first necessary step—and it must be done as quickly as possible.