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- GovTech
Tallinn Mechanism: Two Years of Coordinated International Support for Ukraine’s Cyber Resilience
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- 3 min
In the context of a full-scale war, cyber resilience has become a core pillar of national security. On December 20, 2023, Ukraine and its international partners launched the Tallinn Mechanism — an institutional framework designed to coordinate international assistance in the field of cybersecurity.
Over the past two years, the Tallinn Mechanism has evolved from an act of solidarity into a structured platform for providing systemic support to Ukraine’s cyber resilience. The initiative has brought together 13 partner countries and mobilized €241.7 million in international support to strengthen cyber resilience, protect digital sovereignty, and secure critical infrastructure. The European Union, NATO, and the World Bank participate as official observers.
From solidarity to an institutional framework
The first year of the mechanism focused on institutionalizing project selection and coordination processes across government institutions and critical infrastructure operators. This governance model enabled a shift from fragmented responses to coordinated, long-term planning aligned with national priorities.
Ukraine is facing the world’s first cyberwar, and we are shaping new approaches to cyber resilience. Every day, Ukraine finds effective solutions and sets the pace in countering digital threats. This is why partner support is critically important for us. The Tallinn Mechanism is centered on trust between states, rapid decision-making, and systematic support. Such a partnership enables a rapid response to challenges and helps build a secure digital environment — for Ukraine and for the entire democratic world
Key results after two years
- €241.7 million secured in international support for cybersecurity projects;
- 13 countries participating, with the EU, NATO, and the World Bank as observers;
- cybersecurity and cyber-risk assessments conducted for around 30 critical infrastructure facilities;
- a transparent system for selecting and coordinating cyber assistance projects established;
- ongoing initiatives to strengthen professional capacity in the cybersecurity sector.
Coordination and implementation
The mechanism operates through a multi-level governance model that combines technical project assessment with strategic prioritization. The Tallinn Mechanism Project Office (TMPO) serves as a permanent coordination hub between international partners and Ukrainian institutions, ensuring alignment, transparency, and continuity.
Supported projects are being implemented across central government bodies, digital public service platforms, critical infrastructure operators, and at the regional level.
Investing in people and the next phase
Beyond infrastructure and systems, the Tallinn Mechanism places increasing emphasis on human capital. Training programs and practical initiatives are designed to ensure that cybersecurity support translates into sustainable institutional capacity.
The next phase of the mechanism focuses on deeper engagement with the private sector. The Tallinn Mechanism Platform, a dedicated digital platform scheduled to launch in early 2026, will expand opportunities for business participation in joint cyber initiatives and further strengthen transparency and trust among donors, public institutions, and the private sector.
