Strasbourg, 25/10/2002 (Agence Europe) - The European Parliament opted for a European approach to the security of computer networks and electronic communications by adopting the report by Elena Paciotti (PES, Italy) on the Commission's Communication suggesting a European policy in this field. The EP argues that a solution based only on a voluntary commitment by stakeholders to be unsuitable given the variety of behaviour, lack of common standards and speed of changes in technology.
Among measures that could be taken at European level, the EP calls on the Commission to propose an action plan to encourage the use of electronic signatures through the adoption of European standards that would immediately come into operation in Community institutions. The EP also endorses the idea of setting up a network security research group as soon as possible with the task of identifying national authorities responsible for network management and coordination in the event of crisis, coordinating such activities, setting up a centre of excellence for the exchange of information and preventative measures including the collection and analysis of data and risk, and organising European discussion forums. The Commission unveiled its Communication a year ago.
The European Parliament endorsed the report by Charlotte Cederschiöld (EPP-ED, Sweden) on the framework decision on attacks against information systems by 329 to 43 with 29 abstentions. Her report highlights the importance of respecting fundamental rights and protection of private life. The European Parliament's opinion is not binding.