§2349cc–1 Authorization of Assistance and Funding for Cyberspace, Digital Connectivity, and Related Technologies (cdt) Capacity Building Activities

Summary

The Secretary of State can give aid and money to foreign governments and groups to make the internet and digital systems safer and more stable. The help is meant to protect trusted digital networks, grow secure technology, build partners’ cyber skills, and make sure technology supports human rights and democracy, including through the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership. Programs can fund better ICT infrastructure, policy and regulatory help, training, tools, incident response teams, law enforcement cybercrime work, cooperation with U.S. agencies like CISA, and other activities that improve cyber defense, norms, and deterrence. The Secretary decides which countries or groups get programs, how much money they get, and what it can be used for. Each year the Secretary must report detailed reasons and lists showing amounts and types of grants, budget support (if any), and project aid. Using this authority does not stop other U.S. funding sources from being used for the same goals. Money may also be used to strengthen civilian cyber work abroad, including non-military participation by foreign law enforcement and military, and for U.S. contributions to international organizations if essential. Funds must be obligated under the reprogramming notification rules in section 2394–1.