The conceptual framework of Hybrid Threats

The 'hybrid threats' concept refers to coordinated action conducted by hostile state or non-state actors with the deliberate goal to undermine or harm democratic states. Although the topic is high on the political agenda, our understanding of hybrid threats is often limited to past experiences and known forms of interference, such as disinformation and terrorism.

Working together with the Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats (Hybrid CoE), the JRC has developed a conceptual framework, which describes the components of hybrid threats in terms of actors, their objectives, tools, the domains that can be compromised as well as the different phases of action.

"Awareness of the importance of the initial phases of Hybrid Threats provides the right arguments for engaging in further activities that would help to improve resilience and counter potential hostile actors."

The work aims to facilitate the early detection of hybrid threats, the identification of gaps in preparedness and response and the development of effective measures to counter this complex phenomenon. The research teams call for a whole-of-society approach, which brings together all civil, military and political actors for a more effective response to hybrid threats.