Hybrid warfare and gray zone tactics increase global security concerns

Experts are highlighting the rising complexity of hybrid warfare and the 'gray zone'—a space between peaceful competition and open conflict. In this realm, nations utilize aggregated minor actions, such as drone incursions, cyberattacks, economic pressure, and the manipulation of migration, to achieve strategic objectives without triggering a full military response.

In the Netherlands, recent incidents including the placement of tubes on railroad tracks and cable fires near Schiphol airport have prompted security officials to investigate potential deliberate interference. These events reflect a broader pattern of infrastructure disruption seen across Europe. To address these challenges, the ICCT and the Asser Institute are launching a course in The Hague to foster cross-sector cooperation between legal, policy, and security professionals to enhance national resilience.