This paper aims to focus on the complexity of the cyberspace policies and strategies on both national and international levels, especially between the U.S., Russia, and China. With the continuing progression of the Global Information Age, the diffusion of power and responsibility when it comes to cybersecurity remains unclear. Furthermore, there exists a gap between acquired IR knowledge, evidence, and research and the actual national strategies adopted by the state. The article points out that the U.S. tends to take more impersonal, informal approaches to cybersecurity while Russia and China focus more on multilateral frameworks and on developing international treaties. With regard to the 3 dimensions of cybersecurity: military, espionage, and cybercrime, the U.S. has historically invested more on cybercrime. The concept of “information colonialism” was also brought up. The U.S. often acts like the victim in all situations, never acknowledging their contributions to the problem. Using economic game theory, the author mentions that there is “low perceived trustworthiness” between the U.S. and both respective countries. In order to successfully move forward, the paper notes that “clear boundaries, and shared norms and patters of reciprocity” are necessary.
