How can we ensure the transition to secure software that will strengthen Ukraine’s cyber resilience?
On April 26, the USAID Cybersecurity Project, the Support for Digital Transformation Project (DTA), and the Aspen Institute Kyiv held a Dialogue “From Risks to Resilience: Rethinking the Use of Software in Ukraine.”
The event aims to discuss a roadmap for transitioning from Russian-origin software to secure CRM systems and accounting software solutions in the private and public sectors. The Dialogue brought together market representatives involved in software development, the public sector, cybersecurity experts, and business representatives. The discussion facilitated collaboration and laid the groundwork for further stakeholder cooperation in this process.
Valeriya Ionan, Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, emphasized in her welcome speech that the Ministry of Digital Transformation regularly works on strengthening cybersecurity and invests in this direction: “For this, we cooperate with international partners and engage the best specialists. Last year, we presented the Innovation Strategy, where cybersecurity is one of the main areas. Our goal is to create a favourable environment for cyber innovations. Software developed in Ukraine already can replace software solutions linked to the enemy today. A complete rejection of enemy products in favour of Ukrainian alternatives will help us attract investments, scale the IT business, and create new jobs.”
During the discussion, held under Chatham House Rule, participants raised concerns about the risks associated with Ukrainian companies and the public sector using Russian software (such as 1C and BAS).
Experts emphasized the need to raise awareness of cyber threats associated with these systems. In addition to the risk of data loss, they could also fall into the hands of the enemy and become the target of attacks or extortion.
Participants discussed the challenges that companies face when implementing new software solutions. These include the need for staff retraining, integration of new systems, economic viability, technical capabilities, and security. Significant attention was brought to the challenges faced by developers of alternative software and ways to overcome them. Overcoming these challenges requires improving Ukrainian software and developing relevant ecosystems.
An important part of the discussion was the role of state policy in reducing dependence on Russian software, particularly in creating a secure and autonomous technological infrastructure. Experts emphasized the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors and the scientific community to develop and implement secure software solutions jointly.
Oleksandr Smychnikov, Managing Partner at 10Guards, and Maria Shevchuk, Executive Director of the IT Ukraine Association, moderated the discussion.
It is worth noting that from 2022 to 2024, 13 dialogue events have been held within “The Cybersecurity Dialogue” program to discuss and find the best solutions in this field to strengthen and improve Ukraine’s cybersecurity. Two more events are planned.
The “Cybersecurity Dialogue” program is implemented with the support of the USAID Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Project in collaboration with the Aspen Institute Kyiv.
