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Do States Constrain Non-State Hackers? International Telecommunication Union Elections and Non-State Cyber Aggression

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Listed:
  • Conner B. Joyce

Abstract

Do states constrain non-state hackers? This article extends research on the role of transnational cyber aggression in international relations, showing that governments can be incentivized to mitigate non-state hacking. To test this argument, I leverage competitive elections to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which requires states to campaign on their cybersecurity record. By exploiting this variation, I demonstrate that states are responsive to incentives. Candidates reduce non-state cyber aggression to increase their likelihood of election. This finding demonstrates the potential utility of international institutions as a policy solution to transnational hacking, suggesting that structural incentives can induce states to constrain hackers operating in their territory.

Suggested Citation

  • Conner B. Joyce, 2025. "Do States Constrain Non-State Hackers? International Telecommunication Union Elections and Non-State Cyber Aggression," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 69(10), pages 1687-1712, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:69:y:2025:i:10:p:1687-1712
    DOI: 10.1177/00220027251323557
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Andrea Calderaro & Anthony J. S. Craig, 2020. "Transnational governance of cybersecurity: policy challenges and global inequalities in cyber capacity building," Third World Quarterly, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 41(6), pages 917-938, June.
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