Latvian Cyber Delegation visits Norwich University

Norwich University recently had the privilege of welcoming five representatives from the Latvian government to increase the exchange of knowledge on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and to discuss its utilization by different countries and agencies. This visit was a part of the delegation’s tour throughout the state of Vermont, representing an ongoing effort to enhance U.S.-Latvia collaboration on cybersecurity measures. The visit was sponsored by the Open World Leadership Council and hosted by the Vermont Council on World Affairs. The Latvian Cyber Delegation spent a productive week in Vermont engaging with key stakeholders in cybersecurity; a valuable opportunity to expand the mutual understanding of global OSINT and cybersecurity practices.

The Latvian delegation was led on a campus tour by Director of the Peace and War Center, Dr. Travis Morris. The walking tour included a discussion of the rich Norwich history, the school’s founding, and the effective Norwich leadership in both academic and non-academic spheres. Of particular interest to the delegation was a walkthrough of the Senator Patrick Leahy School of Cybersecurity and Advanced Computing. The school was renamed in honor of the former Vermont senator as a tribute to his tireless efforts and commitment to enhance investment in the realm of cybersecurity.

The delegation had the opportunity to observe the ongoing OSINT Academy, a first of its kind at an American university, dedicated to teaching high school students about OSINT and its respective applications. Simultaneously, the delegation interacted with members of the Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI) staff and undergraduate researchers who were actively engaged in OSINT studies. During the first day of the delegation’s Norwich visit, Dr. Morris led a comprehensive briefing covering the Norwich University Peace and War Center, the upcoming 30th annual Military Writers’ Symposium, and various worldwide trips cadets have taken in conjunction with the Olmsted Foundation. Highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering multicultural understanding and international relationships, he discussed how Norwich has become a driving force in promoting cultural exploration and building relationships that transcend national barriers.

Following the presentation by Dr. Morris, Norwich’s Senior Information Warfare Research Analyst, Mark Perry, led a discussion regarding the practical application of OSINT technology to detect global conflict propaganda. Multiple students from Norwich gave presentations, providing further insight into their work and how this cutting-edge technology could make a difference. Additionally, these briefings served as an intellectual exchange, where the Latvian Delegation offered valuable suggestions and real-world applications related to NUARI, Norwich, and student activities. Equally important were the one-on-one interaction sessions that the delegation had with members of NUARI and Norwich students.

The Latvian Delegation presented on their specific use of cybersecurity tools and OSINT in their respective fields. The briefing was a comprehensive discussion on financial security, criminal fraud detection and mitigation, as well as a holistic approach to cybersecurity threats on an international scale. A valuable experience for the Norwich students, the briefing seamlessly integrated practical cybersecurity practices within the vast sphere of geopolitical context, thereby deepening their understanding.

Members of the Latvian Cyber Delegation:

Kaspars Polis
Digital Policy Governance Senior Consultant, Digital Policy Department
Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development of the Republic of Latvia (VARAM)

Kate Elizabete Kanasta
Deputy Head of the Cybersecurity Policy Coordination Section
Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Latvia

Ligita Pula
Head of Innovations and IT Division
Financial Intelligence Unit of Latvia (FIU Latvia)

Olegs Filatovs
Head of Second Unit, Cybercrime Enforcement Department, Central Criminal Police Department
State Police of Republic of Latvia

Rita Broka
Deputy Head of First Unit, Cybercrime Enforcement Department, Central Criminal Police Department
State Police of Republic of Latvia