The appointment of the EU Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) as the chair of the EU Agencies Network (EUAN) beginning March 1, 2025, marks a significant step towards strengthening cybersecurity standards across Europe. This new role involves leading inter-agency cooperation to raise the common level of cybersecurity among EU Agencies and Joint Undertakings. The strategic focus will be on good governance, establishing a reputation as a valued institutional partner, and enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture within the EU.
ENISA’s Vision and Commitment
Juhan Lepassaar, the Executive Director of ENISA, has expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming responsibilities, emphasizing the agency’s dedication to fostering a community mindset and striving for excellence. By spearheading the mission of the EUAN, ENISA aims to enhance cooperation and share services among member agencies, ultimately delivering tangible benefits to EU citizens. The collaborative approach is poised to significantly improve the implementation of EU policies and support efforts towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and competitive Europe.
ENISA’s focus as chair will include setting key priorities for the year, continuing the efforts of previous agencies, and aligning with the 2025-2026 Work Programme of the EUAN. This program is in sync with the broader 2021-2027 strategy, which targets administrative excellence and positions the EUAN as a trusted institutional partner. The emphasis will be on ensuring good governance, maintaining proactive and visible interactions to broaden the EUAN’s reach, and aiding agencies in achieving a robust level of cybersecurity.
Strategic Priorities and Governance
To effectively meet these objectives, ENISA will closely collaborate with the EUAN Steering Board. This board comprises outgoing coordinators and representatives from a variety of agencies and is instrumental in implementing the new governance model introduced in 2024. The governance framework includes Assemblies of Heads of Agencies and Heads of Resources, alongside three coordinating Pillars focused on Budget, Finance and Planning; HR and Legal; and Policy Support. This structure is poised to guide the strategic, political, and technical agenda of the EUAN, with thematic Sub-Networks, Working Groups, and Task Forces working diligently to execute the strategy and annual work programs aimed at enhancing inter-agency collaboration.
Additionally, the EUAN Shared Support Office (SSO) will provide crucial assistance in the daily operations of the agencies and joint undertakings, ensuring efficient practical arrangements and maintaining effective communication with EU Institutions. ENISA’s anticipation to successfully implement this new governance model during its year-long tenure as chair highlights the importance of a systematic approach in achieving significant cybersecurity milestones. The agency’s commitment to these priorities underscores its role in elevating the cybersecurity standards across the EU, leveraging its new position to drive meaningful and structured changes within the network.
Enhancing Cybersecurity Across the EU
The EUAN, consisting of 52 EU Agencies and Joint Undertakings employing around 13,000 staff across 24 Member States, serves as a vital platform for members to exchange information and collaborate effectively. This network is pivotal in assisting members to implement EU policies and work towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and competitive Europe. As chair, ENISA’s leadership will play a crucial role in setting the agenda and ensuring that shared goals are met through enhanced cybersecurity measures and robust cooperation.
A key aspect of ENISA’s role will be steering the collective efforts towards achieving a high common level of cybersecurity, thus ensuring that all agencies are well-equipped to safeguard their operations against cyber threats. This involves not only setting the priorities for the year but also building on the achievements of previous chairing agencies to maintain a continuity of efforts. By prioritizing effective governance and proactive engagement, ENISA aims to expand the EUAN’s influence and support agencies in reaching higher standards of cybersecurity.
Future Prospects and Collaborations
The appointment of the EU Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) as the chair of the EU Agencies Network (EUAN) starting March 1, 2025, represents an important move towards bolstering cybersecurity measures across Europe. This new leadership role will involve spearheading collaborative efforts among EU Agencies and Joint Undertakings to enhance the collective cybersecurity level. The strategic objectives include promoting effective governance, building a reputation as a reliable institutional partner, and improving the overall cybersecurity framework within the EU. By chairing the EUAN, ENISA is expected to foster greater inter-agency cooperation, ensuring that all EU entities adhere to higher cybersecurity standards. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, this initiative underscores the EU’s commitment to maintaining robust defenses across its digital landscape, promoting resilience, and safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive data from emerging cyber threats.
