Hybrid threats and human security: the impact of hybrid war and hybrid interference on civilians

Purpose This paper examines the evolving landscape of hybrid warfare and hybrid interference and the impact of these hybrid threats on the lives of civilians. Design/methodology/approach This paper outlines the origins of the concept of hybrid warfare, its strengths and limitations and the push for conceptual refinement, leading to the introduction of the concept of hybrid interference. The key characteristics of hybridity are addressed, particularly in relation to actors and strategies. Key domains of hybrid attacks are explored. Findings Drawing on a human security lens, this paper reveals the profound ways in which the people’s daily lives are affected by hybrid threats in the realms of information, cyber and economics. It highlights the importance of moving beyond macro-level understandings of hybrid threats to include the security of everyday people. Social implications The implications of hybrid threats are examined, alongside key strategies for tackling hybrid threats, including resilience building and a whole-of-society approach to countering hybrid threats. Originality/value While the issue of hybrid threats has been explored extensively, as well as its macro implications, little attention has been paid to micro-level implications. This paper addresses the impact of hybrid threats on the daily lives of civilian populations.