Note: The National Center for Cyberspace was established in 2011 by the decree of the Supreme Leader with the purpose of providing governance and regulation for the country’s cyberspace. Below is a report on the missions and activities carried out by this center.

The National Center for Cyberspace was established in 2011 by the decree of the Supreme Leader. As an overarching and governing institution, it is responsible for guiding the country’s cyberspace. The primary objective of establishing this center has been the proper management of cyberspace and leveraging its opportunities for the country’s progress.

Missions and Objectives

The objectives and missions of this center include:

• Formulating high-level cyberspace policies: Developing laws and regulations related to cyberspace;
• Overseeing the performance of executive bodies: Ensuring alignment of activities with overarching policies;
• Developing digital infrastructure: Supervising the implementation of national projects such as the National Information Network;
• Enhancing cybersecurity: Countering cyber threats and ensuring data security.

Major Activities

Over the years, the National Center for Cyberspace has undertaken numerous initiatives to regulate the country’s cyberspace, not all of which can be detailed in this report. However, some of the most significant activities, considered major undertakings, are as follows:

1. Policy and Regulation Development: The National Center for Cyberspace plays a key role in drafting and approving the country’s strategic policies in the cyberspace domain. Some of the most important actions include: a. Approving the National Information Network document: Establishing independent and secure infrastructure for the country; b. Issuing cybersecurity policies: Defining frameworks to counter internal and external threats; c. Promoting the digital economy: Formulating programs to strengthen digital businesses and startups.
2. Supervision and Coordination, including: a. Coordination among government entities: Ensuring alignment of organizations in implementing policies; b. Oversight of institutional performance: Monitoring activities related to cyberspace.
3. Support for Infrastructure Development, including: a. Investment in the National Information Network infrastructure; b. Support for knowledge-based companies to develop indigenous technologies.

Strategic Projects

a. National Information Network: The most critical strategic project of the National Center for Cyberspace is the creation of the National Information Network. Designed to ensure the independence and security of the country’s communication infrastructure, its outcomes have been clearly demonstrated in recent years, particularly during the 12-day war.

The main objectives of this project are to reduce dependency on the global internet, enhance the security of Iranian users’ data, and provide fast and reliable services. However, the project has faced challenges, including difficulties in securing hardware and software infrastructure and countering external threats.

b. Cybersecurity: Another key project of the National Center for Cyberspace is the formulation and implementation of cybersecurity policies. Actions taken include identifying and countering cyberattacks and strengthening security systems for the country’s critical infrastructure.

c. Digital Economy Development: To achieve this project, the following actions have been taken:

• Supporting startups: Promoting technology-based emerging businesses;
• Creating e-commerce platforms: Expanding domestic online markets.

National and International Achievements

The National Center for Cyberspace has achieved significant milestones at both national and international levels.

At the national level, examples include the increased production of indigenous content in cyberspace, the launch of domestic social media platforms, and reduced reliance on foreign services such as messaging applications.

At the international level, active participation in global forums such as the ITU and collaboration with like-minded countries to counter cyber threats are among these efforts.

Challenges and Constraints

The activities of the National Center for Cyberspace come with their own specific difficulties and challenges, which can slow down or complicate project implementation. Some of these challenges include:

a. Dependence on foreign technologies: Iran’s reliance on foreign technologies in many areas poses challenges to the development of national projects. b. Sanctions: International sanctions have restricted Iran’s access to advanced tools and software. c. Lack of coordination among institutions: Incomplete coordination among relevant entities has slowed the implementation of certain policies.

The National Center for Cyberspace plays a fundamental role in advancing the country’s cyberspace through its responsibilities in policymaking, supervision, and management. Despite challenges, the center has achieved notable successes. The continuation and strengthening of its activities can contribute to realizing the country’s overarching goals in the cyberspace domain.