This part-time online course was delivered between 17 June and 29 September to a combined audience of EU Member States and the beneficiaries of the ENP and IPA projects. The course aimed to develop the necessary knowledge and skills of maritime inspectors in the field of cybersecurity, enabling them to effectively identify, assess, and manage cybersecurity risks in compliance with EU and international regulations and standards.

As ships become more connected, automated, and reliant on digital systems, they are also becoming more vulnerable to cyber threats such as hacking, malware, and ransomware attacks that can have a significant impact on the maritime industry, ranging from financial losses to potential safety hazards. Considering these realities, it is crucial that maritime inspectors from national competent authorities have a thorough understanding of the risks and best practices associated with cybersecurity in the maritime domain.

The EU has recognised the increasing threat of cyber-attacks to the maritime industry and has taken concrete steps to mitigate these risks through various initiatives and regulations. From an EU perspective, the training course is a critical step towards enhancing the safety and security of its Member States’ maritime operations and through the Neighbourhood Projects, this expertise has been made available to third countries as well.

Since the maritime industry is also subject to a range of international regulations and guidelines related to cybersecurity, including the International Maritime Organization's guidelines on maritime cyber risk management, this course aligns the EU's efforts with the overall cybersecurity posture of the maritime industry.

By equipping national maritime inspectors with the necessary knowledge and skills, the course contributes to the goal of ensuring the safety and security of maritime operations in an increasingly digital world.