Germany’s ministry proposes plan to safeguard critical infrastructure

The proposed plan is to protect critical infrastructure, focusing on unified regulations, minimum standards for operators, prompt reporting of disruptions, and a clear definition of critical infrastructure, driven by concerns about foreign influence and the vulnerability of conflicts like Ukraine.

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With the aim of tackling concerns about foreign influence on critical infrastructure, Germany’s Interior Ministry is set to introduce a draft plan that emphasizes the establishment of unified regulations across all 16 states. The primary goal of the plan is to protect strategically important infrastructure in key sectors of the economy. Operators will be required to adhere to minimum standards and develop thorough plans that address potential risks comprehensively, ensuring resilience. Moreover, any significant disruptions will be mandated to be promptly reported.

These proposed measures are largely influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and other related factors that have raised awareness about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. The Interior Ministry intends to present a finalised bill to the cabinet by the end of the year. A key objective of the plan is to provide a clear and comprehensive definition of critical infrastructure, encompassing vital sectors such as energy, transport, and telecommunications.