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The 11th Ocean Dialogue

Hybrid activities were introduced in the early 2000s, referring to the combined use of conventional and unconventional means (both conventional and unconventional techniques) in a wide range of dimensions (on land, in the air, or at sea; on the battlefield or in the political arena, physical or cyberspace) by various actors (from armed forces, academics, to irregular actors such as militia or bloggers) in order to win a competitive situation. In terms of academia, the concept of hybrid activities is still undergoing debates due to its ambiguous nature. It is particularly relevant to the range of tactics and activities that can be included in a hybrid strategy (some even include information diplomacy and lawfare as hybrid tools). The use of hybrid activities has already become widespread around the world. Session 1 will include case studies and typical hybrid activities, as well as possible scenarios, followed by a discussion of lessons learned.

A growing trend in hybrid activities is the use of non-kinetic techniques, which refer to methods other than direct military action (such as economic warfare, information warfare, or lawfare, etc...). Hybrid warfare is also characterized by the important role of non-state actors, which could consist of militias, armed groups, and private security companies. In this session, panelists will discuss various non-kinetic, non-military aspects of hybrid warfare and gray zone operations.

The rapid development of high technology, such as the Internet of Things, big data and artificial intelligence, has greatly simplified life in many ways. Nevertheless, they can also offer new weapons for warfare and create new battlefields in a hybrid or gray zone environment. Session 3 focuses on the relationship between hybrid warfare and new technologies. As an example, how has the cyberspace been used (or misused) as a new battlefield between nations and how have autonomous vehicles become such an important weapon that could determine the outcome of a conflict?

Once the threats posed by hybrid warfare and gray zone operations have been explored, the central question for international policy-makers is how to manage hybrid activities. In this manner, nations are able to take full advantage of the advances in science and technology without opening a Pandora's box filled with more deadly and dangerous weapons of war. At Session 4, panelists and participants will have the opportunity to discuss policy and legal recommendations for managing threats associated with hybrid and gray zone activities.