SFU Hybrid Warfare Student Competition

🎉 Successful Conclusion of the Inaugural Hybrid Warfare Student Competition 🎉

As we close the final chapter of the inaugural Hybrid Warfare Student Competition, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've all been a part of.

From the insightful presentations to the rigorous policy analysis, our simulation participants have shown exceptional skill in engaging multiple national security threat scenarios and crafting policy recommendations for the Canadian government to address these hybrid threats. The final day was a testament to the hard work and preparation of all involved.

Swipe through to see the event highlights ➡️

A heartfelt thank you to all the students, mentors, judges, speakers, and esteemed guests from Public Safety Canada | Sécurité publique Canada, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) | Service canadien du renseignement de sécurité (SCRS), Canadian Armed Forces | Forces armées canadiennes, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, Convergence, NATO Field School and Simulation Program, Canadian Association for Security and Intelligence Studies - Vancouver, The University of British Columbia, University of Calgary and Simon Fraser University. Your expertise and insights have been invaluable.

This event has been a melting pot of ideas and solutions, with robust discussions and a steadfast dedication to deepening our understanding of the hybrid threats that Canada faces and how to best respond to these novel security threats.

Here's to the knowledge gained, the networks established, and the friendships forged.

We look forward to seeing you at the 2024 Hybrid Warfare Student Competition!!

Team Spotlight: 🌟 Team Prometheus 🌟

Representing Simon Fraser University from the beautiful British Columbia, we're excited to have Team Prometheus join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.


Team bio:
Our name, "Prometheus," is inspired by the Greek Titan who brought fire to humanity, which we used as both a tool and a weapon. Our name symbolizes our species’ use of information technologies in this same way. Also, it symbolizes our team’s commitment to shedding light on complex security challenges leading to tailored, community-based, people-first solutions. Team Prometheus is a dynamic group of five students from SFU, each bringing unique skills and expertise from fields such as Computer Engineering, Engineering Science, Political Science, Communications and Sociology. We are extremely grateful to Reboot Communications for supporting us and allowing us a chance to compete in this event.
Antonia Angueira, a driven third-year SFU student hailing from Bogotá, Colombia, delves into the intricate realm of Communications with a focus on the interplay of power dynamics. Majoring in Communications with a minor in Sociology, her passion lies in micro and macro power dynamics as well as the use of information and technology for propaganda in an international context.
Ahmad is a student at Simon Fraser University majoring in Communications and Sociology. He brings forth a rich and diverse educational background having lived and attended school in 5 different countries. Some of his other academic interests include criminology, psychology and sustainable development.
Ben Djukastein is a fourth-year Software Systems student at Simon Fraser University, currently working as a web developer for green building controls manufacturer Reliable Controls. He’s a Victoria-born student leader with recent roles as the Vice Chair of Competitions for 2023’s Western Engineering Competition and as 4th Year Representative for the Software Systems Student Society.
Nathaniel Hunt, the founder of Team Prometheus, is an award-winning writer and former football player at SFU. He majors in Communication while pursuing a minor in Political Science. His focus has been on propaganda and societal persuasion by using narratives as they relate to business and government, emphasizing communication technologies.
Yu-Xing is a second-year Engineering Science student at SFU. He is very passionate about leadership and community. He plans to concentrate on Engineering Physics and hopes to contribute to the aerospace industry.

Team Spotlight: 🌟 Team Prometheus 🌟 Representing Simon Fraser University from the beautiful British Columbia, we're excited to have Team Prometheus join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition. #HyWSC Team bio: Our name, "Prometheus," is inspired by the Greek Titan who brought fire to humanity, which we used as both a tool and a weapon. Our name symbolizes our species’ use of information technologies in this same way. Also, it symbolizes our team’s commitment to shedding light on complex security challenges leading to tailored, community-based, people-first solutions. Team Prometheus is a dynamic group of five students from SFU, each bringing unique skills and expertise from fields such as Computer Engineering, Engineering Science, Political Science, Communications and Sociology. We are extremely grateful to Reboot Communications for supporting us and allowing us a chance to compete in this event. Antonia Angueira, a driven third-year SFU student hailing from Bogotá, Colombia, delves into the intricate realm of Communications with a focus on the interplay of power dynamics. Majoring in Communications with a minor in Sociology, her passion lies in micro and macro power dynamics as well as the use of information and technology for propaganda in an international context. Ahmad is a student at Simon Fraser University majoring in Communications and Sociology. He brings forth a rich and diverse educational background having lived and attended school in 5 different countries. Some of his other academic interests include criminology, psychology and sustainable development. Ben Djukastein is a fourth-year Software Systems student at Simon Fraser University, currently working as a web developer for green building controls manufacturer Reliable Controls. He’s a Victoria-born student leader with recent roles as the Vice Chair of Competitions for 2023’s Western Engineering Competition and as 4th Year Representative for the Software Systems Student Society. Nathaniel Hunt, the founder of Team Prometheus, is an award-winning writer and former football player at SFU. He majors in Communication while pursuing

Volunteers Wanted! 🌟

We're seeking enthusiastic individuals to join us as volunteers for the Hybrid Warfare Student Competition. Be a part of this exciting event and gain valuable experience! Interested? Please DM us or send an email to: [email protected]

Team Spotlight: 🌟 SFU SONAR 🌟

Representing Simon Fraser University from the beautiful British Columbia, we're excited to have Research Raccoons join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.


Team bio:
Team SFU Sonar is comprised of 5 female students passionate about international relations, security, and defense. Our experience in Model United Nations has allowed us to pursue creative problem solving in simulation scenarios, which we hope to bring to the NATO exercise. As a team, we are excited to further challenge ourselves to find novel ways of presenting policy options on pressing international questions.

Team Spotlight: 🌟 Team Maple Driven 🌟

Join us in welcoming Team Maple Driven from York University, Ontario, to the Hybrid Warfare Student Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.


Team bio:
Team Maple Driven (MD), we are a dynamic group of highly motivated individuals comprising both graduate and undergraduate students with a passion for political science. United by a common interest in understanding and navigating the complex landscape of hybrid warfare, our team includes Christian Rudorfer, Dheman Abdi, Dylaney Day, Kristin Dattoo and Viththaki Uthayakumar, all political science students in undergraduate and graduate studies. We hope to combine our diverse perspectives, academic rigor, and strategic thinking in this competition.

Team Spotlight: 🌟 Research Raccoons 🌟

Representing Simon Fraser University from the beautiful British Columbia, we're excited to have Research Raccoons join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.


Team bio:
Pranjali, Atena, Natasha, Anne and Arjun make up the Research Racoons team based out of Simon Fraser University. The students of the RR team comes from diverse backgrounds and seek to apply an intersectional and critical perspective in our approach to Hybrid Warfare and Security. Pranjali is a fourth year Communications and International Studies student, currently working as a researcher and comms lead at Digital Democracies Institute. She's an incoming masters student, working on climate change communication, democratic online exchange, Internet theory, disinformation currency, propaganda wars, media studies, and scholarly work around UNCLOS. Atena is a political science student with a diverse educational background in science, psychology, law, and government. She is presently employed as a legal assistant, working in the immigration and refugee field. Natasha is a third year student in the field of international studies with a focus on international security and conflict. Her additional interests center on criminology and economics. Anne is a fifth year student and entrance scholar majoring in International Studies and minoring in Sustainable Development. Academically, her focus has been on peace, security, and human rights in the Asia-Pacific, with special interest in Southeast Asia as the region where she was born. Before applying to law school, she will be completing an internship in Thailand come Spring. Arjun is a fifth year International Studies student whose work has focused on human security, defense spending, and south asian politics and who is currently serving as Editor-in-chief of the Confluence Academic Journal. The team is advised by Professor Nicole Jackson of SFU's School for International Studies.

Team Spotlight: 🌟 University of Manitoba 🌟

Join us in welcoming the team University of Manitoba to join the Competition! Dive into their team bio and get to know the brilliant minds representing their institution at the Hybrid Warfare Student Competition.


Team bio:
Hailing from Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba team is comprised of political studies students Eleni Iskierski, Wes Bunn, Ivan Nunez Gamez, Ethan Boyda, Sadie Loughlin, and faculty advisor Bryce Offenberger. With each bringing a distinct political perspective and range of experience to the competition, they are keen to explore the scenario to the fullest!

Team Spotlight: 🌟 Her Majesty's Smurfs 🌟

Representing Simon Fraser University from the beautiful British Columbia, we're excited to have Her Majesty's Smurfs join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.


Team bio:
The members of “Her Majesty’s Smurfs” come from diverse backgrounds, and include current and former members of the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as a member of Doctors Without Borders (MSF). They draw from a wealth of experience gained operating in complex and contentious regions including Ukraine, Iraq, and NATO's eFP in Latvia

Team Spotlight: 🌟 TEAM UBC 🌟

Representing the University of British Columbia, we're excited to have TEAM UBC join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.


Team bio:
Hi Everyone! We are TEAM UBC and we are very excited to take part in this student competition. We are 5 third-year students from UBC’s IR program: Sriya Srivastava (she/her), Nana Yamamoto (she/her), Fiorella Vargas (she/her), Nuray Omirbek (she/her), and Varsha Gangadharan (she/her). We come from a variety of countries, including India, Japan, Kazakhstan and Peru. We are eager to learn more about Canadian perspectives on security and peace resolution while connecting with students of different institutions and cultural backgrounds. We look forward to meeting you!

Team Spotlight: 🌟 UBC Hybrid Warfare Center of Excellence 🌟

Representing the University of British Columbia, we're excited to have the team UBC Hybrid Warfare Center of Excellence join the Competition. Swipe to discover more about their team members and what they bring to this competition.

Team bio:
Introducing the UBC COE team: Sophie, Michael, Azaly, and Ashlee, who bonded during the 2023 NATO Field School Program. They spent an unforgettable summer abroad in Europe immersing themselves in the complex world of international defence and security. They hope to embark on this new challenge and advance their understanding of global security in the landscape of hybrid warfare!

🚫 The registration window has officially closed! 🚫

🎉 A huge shoutout and congratulations to all the teams who made it before the deadline. 🎉

Introducing our fantastic lineup of 13 teams:

Team 1. UBC Hybrid Warfare Center of Excellence
Team 2. TEAM UBC
Team 3. Her Majesty's Smurfs
Team 4. Horizon for Peace
Team 5. University of Manitoba
Team 6. Research Raccoons
Team 7. Lions of the Dessert
Team 8 from York University
Team 9. SFU SONAR
Team 10 from Simon Fraser University
Team 11 from the University of Calgary
Team 12. Muslimahs
Team 13. Poli 349

Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for an exciting competition ahead! 🏆

🔥 TODAY IS THE DAY! 🔥

Hey everyone! It's the LAST DAY to jump into our competition. If you've been waiting for a sign, this is it!

Filling out the application form is easy - enter school name, advisor contacts, member information -> Email!

AND: There are still 2 days left to make the final call for that hotel booking discount. Use the special rate code “SFU” at hotel booking before October 6 and lock in those savings for an unforgettable stay. 🏨🎉

No more waiting. Let's make today count!
https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

Good things come to those who wait! Due to popular demand, we're extending the special rate for Holiday Inn bookings! 🏨✨

New Deadline: October 6th.
Group code: SFU

If you missed out earlier, here's your golden chance. Use the special rate code and lock in those savings for an unforgettable stay.

Don't let this slip away again. Book now and enjoy the perks!
https://www.holidayinn.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=HI&localeCode=en®ionCode=1&hotelCode=YVRBW&_PMID=99801505&GPC=SFU&cn=no&viewfullsite=true

⏰ Only 1 Day Left! ⏰

Hey everyone! The countdown is real. If you haven't jumped into the competition yet, now's your LAST CHANCE!

Filling out the application form is easy - enter school name, advisor contacts, member information -> Email!

What is waiting for you:
🏆Epic Prizes 🤝Connect & Network 🚀 Level Up 🎉 Pure Fun
PLUS: Tomorrow is the final day to snag that hotel booking discount. Double the reason to act fast! 🏨✨

Time's almost up. Let's do this!
https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

🚨 Only 2 Days Left! 🚨

If you haven't joined our competition yet, now's the time! Here's why:

🏆 Amazing Prizes: Not just bragging rights, but some seriously cool rewards await the winners.
🤝 Networking: Meet like-minded folks and industry leaders. Great opportunity to expand your circle!
🚀 Skill Boost: Challenge yourself and learn something new. Every competition is a chance to grow.
🎉 Fun Times: Because who doesn't love a bit of friendly rivalry?

BONUS: Remember, the competition deadline is ALSO the last day to use that special discount code for hotel bookings. Don't miss out on a double win! 🏨💰

Tick-tock, the clock's ticking. Dive in and make the most of it!
https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

🚨 Attention everyone! There are only 3 days left to submit your application. Don't miss out on this opportunity. Mark your calendars and finalize your submissions. ⏳ The countdown begins! 📝🔜https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

📢 Good news! The PDF application form has been fixed and the updated version is now available on our website. Thank you for your patience and understanding. We encourage you to download the new form and proceed with your application.

📣The Double-Edged Sword of Smart Cities: Progress vs. Vulnerability📣

Hello Everyone,

Smart cities, with their blend of technology and urbanization, promise a brighter, more efficient future. As we embrace the promise of futuristic urban living, the vulnerabilities of smart cities become increasingly evident. Let's explore the challenges and implications that come with innovation.

🌆 What Makes a City "Smart"?
Smart cities aren't just about technology. At their core, they integrate digital, physical, and human systems to create sustainable, inclusive urban environments. They represent the future of urbanization, driven by technological advancements and the promise of a better quality of life. Think of Seoul, where technology and infrastructure merge for efficient living.

🔗 Interconnectivity's Double-Edged Sword
While interconnected systems can streamline services, they also introduce vulnerabilities. For instance, older legacy systems – foundational to many cities – are often riddled with cyber vulnerabilities. As cities become smarter, they increasingly rely on technology and data. From cyberattacks to foreign hybrid influence, these threats are real and multifaceted.

👥 Societal Impacts
Emerging technologies can sometimes inadvertently introduce biases. Facial recognition, for example, has faced criticism for inaccuracies, especially with certain demographics, leading to potential social unrest.

📱 Tech Giants & Data
With a significant portion of IoT devices originating from China, there are rising concerns about data security, particularly concerning user data privacy. Platforms like TikTok have come under scrutiny for potential data access by foreign entities. Even tech giants like Apple have had to navigate complex geopolitical waters.

🚦 Tangible Threats in Daily Life
The impact of cyberattacks can be immediate and widespread. Imagine a scenario where a cyberattack disrupts traffic systems during rush hour or compromises a city's water purification process. Cities like London, a major financial center, is a prime target for cyber threats. A disruption in such a city could have ramifications not just locally but on an international scale.

These incidents are real and are happening today. An example would be Russia’s alleged hacking of Ukraine's electricity grid to disrupt daily life and military operations.

In Conclusion, while smart cities represent the pinnacle of technological progress, they also introduce new vulnerabilities. Therefore, it is imperative to strike a balance between innovation and security.

Stay informed and be prepared. The future of urban living depends on it.

📣 Want to explore these issues in a real-world scenario? Register for our upcoming Hybrid Warfare Competition by October 4th.
🔗 https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

📣 Deadline Extended to October 4th! 📣

We've heard your requests and are excited to announce that the registration deadline for our Hybrid Warfare Competition has been extended to October 4th!

Don't miss this opportunity to delve into critical topics like artificial intelligence, disinformation, and autonomous weapons. Secure your spot now!
https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

📣 The Rise of Robotic Weapons: A New Frontier in Modern Warfare 📣

Hello Everyone,

As we navigate the complexities of modern conflicts, one topic that is gaining traction is the role of robotic weapons. Let's dive into some key insights.

🤖 Who's Leading the Robotics Revolution?

Contrary to popular belief, the US is not leading the robotics revolution. Drones are now used by numerous states, including non-state actors like ISIS and Hamas.

🌏 Global Landscape

Over 90% of international armed drone transfers come from China.
While the US and UK are cautious, Russian companies are boasting about autonomous features in their weaponry.

🤔 To Automatize or Not to Automatize?

Should weapons be fully automatized?
In the current landscape, most states have decided to keep humans in the loop but are also hedging their bets for the future.

🔍 Transparency Challenges

While the US and UK are more transparent with weapon automatization due to pressure from civil society, Russia does not share the same level of transparency.

⚠️ Are We at the Starting Line of a New Arms Race?

While it is too early to declare an arms race, the technology is readily available.
The only missing ingredient is software, which is becoming increasingly easy to come by.

📣 Get Involved!

Want to explore these issues in a real-world scenario? Register for our upcoming Hybrid Warfare Competition by September 20th. https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

📣 Emerging Technologies & National Security: The Invisible Battlefield 📣

Hello Everyone,

As technology evolves at a breakneck pace, it is crucial to understand its impact on national security. Let's explore some key technologies and their implications.

🤖 Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Impact: AI can transform military operations from intelligence gathering to data processing.
Ethical Concerns: The use of AI in military contexts raises ethical questions, especially regarding accountability and the risk to human lives.
Global Race: Countries like the US, China, and Russia are vying for AI dominance, potentially triggering a new arms race.

🌐 Internet of Things (IoT)

Impact: IoT can enhance surveillance and data collection but also opens up new vulnerabilities.
Local Threat: Malicious actors can easily target smart cities and disrupt anything from money transfers to causing blackouts and limiting water availability. This requires a rethinking of national security policies.

📡 5G Networks

Impact: 5G is crucial for both civilian and defense applications.
Geopolitical Context: The rise of 5G technology introduces new vulnerabilities such as exposing communications infrastructure to malicious hardware and software which increases risks in confidentiality.

🔮 Quantum Computing

Impact: Quantum tech could give nations capabilities that are currently unimaginable.
Canadian Perspective: Canada has been a leader in quantum research, focusing on sensing tech and strategic partnerships.
🛡️ Common Themes

Ethical Framework: An ethical framework is needed to guide the use of these technologies in a military context.
Global Governance: International norms and regulations are essential to manage the security implications of these technologies.

Want to delve deeper into these fascinating topics? Register for our upcoming Hybrid Warfare Competition by September 20th. https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

Disinformation VS Misinformation

📣 Disinformation vs Misinformation: Navigating the Grey Zone of Information Warfare 📣

Hello Everyone,

As we delve deeper into the complexities of Hybrid Warfare, it's essential to understand the role of information—or rather, the manipulation of it. Today, let's clarify two often-confused terms: Disinformation and Misinformation.

🤔 Disinformation vs. Misinformation

Disinformation: Deliberately false or misleading information spread with the intent to deceive. It is a calculated move, often used by state actors, to create confusion, sow discord, or influence public opinion.

Misinformation: False or misleading information shared without malicious intent. While the information is still incorrect, the person sharing it believes it to be true.

🎯 Why Does It Matter in Hybrid Warfare?

Information can be used as a weapon. Understanding the source and intent behind false information can help in crafting effective counter-strategies.

🌍 Real-World Examples

Disinformation: Country X announces they've developed "invisible tanks," causing a stir among international defense communities. In reality, there is no such technology; it is a strategic move to divert attention from their actual military capabilities.

Misinformation: Citizen John from Country Y leaks a "classified document" about a moon base with Earth-targeting lasers. The media goes into a frenzy only to find out the document was a prop from a sci-fi movie.

🛡️ How to Combat These Challenges

Critical Thinking: Always question the source and intent of the information.
Fact-Checking: Use reliable sources to verify information before sharing it.
Public Awareness: Educate the public on the importance of information integrity.

📣 Get Involved!

Want to apply these insights in a real-world scenario? Register for our upcoming Hybrid Warfare Challenge by September 20th. https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

Hybrid Warfare Student Competition The Hybrid Warfare Student Competition is designed for undergraduate and graduate students from Canadian universities and professional military educational institutions who want a better understanding of the policy challenges associated with hybrid (grey zone) warfare.

📣 Understanding Grey Zone Warfare: A Brief for Beginners 📣

Today, I'd like to demystify a term that is becoming increasingly relevant but is often misunderstood: Hybrid Warfare.

🔍 What is Hybrid Warfare?

Also known as Grey Zone Warfare, Hybrid Warfare is a form of conflict that exists between the traditional definitions of war and peace. It involves a range of activities – both military and non-military – aimed at gaining strategic advantages without triggering a full-blown war.

🛠️ Grey Zone Toolkit / Tactics Involved

Information Operations and Disinformation: Spreading false information to create confusion.
Political Coercion: Influencing internal politics to create discord.
Economic Coercion: Using economic tools to exert pressure.
Cyber Operations: Targeting critical infrastructure.
Space Operations: Manipulating or disrupting satellite communications.
Proxy Support: Using third parties to engage in conflict indirectly.
Provocation by State-Controlled Forces: Inciting incidents to test responses.

🛡️Why Should We Care?

Grey Zone Warfare poses a unique set of challenges for policymakers and security analysts. It requires a multi-disciplinary approach to counter these threats effectively, involving everything from cyber-security measures to diplomatic efforts.

📣 Join the Conversation in Action! Register for our upcoming Hybrid Warfare Challenge by September 20th to apply these insights in a real-world scenario. https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

Let's stay informed and vigilant! Knowledge is our first line of defense. 🇨🇦

Ready to challenge your policy skills and claim $1,500 prize?

📣 Announcing Canada's Premier Hybrid Warfare Student Competition: The Ultimate Policy Challenge! 📣
Hello, Future Leaders and Policy Makers! 🌟
We are excited to announce a new and exciting competition for undergraduate and graduate students across Canada! Founded by Dr. Elis Vllasi, the Hybrid Warfare Student Competition will bring together 16 teams mentored by experts in the field to tackle an evolving scenario exercise involving a major hybrid attack on Canada and its allies.

📅 Date: November 6 – 8, 2023
📍 Venue: SFU's Harbour Centre campus in Vancouver

👥 Judges: Experts from federal agencies, industry, and academia.
📝 Criteria: Policy response, decision-making, and oral presentation
👉 Mentorship: Team up with a mentor and get invaluable feedback.

🎟️ Application Fee: FREE
⌛ Deadline: September 20
Register Now! https://www.sfu.ca/politics/affiliated-programs/hybrid-warfare-student-competition.html

Let's come together to make our nation stronger and safer! 💪