Abstract

Cybersecurity has become a critical aspect of national security, economic stability, and digital transformation. This research aims to identify gaps and shortcomings in Pakistan’s National Cyber Security Policy 2021 by comparing it with Bangladesh’s National Cyber Security Policy 2023. A qualitative analysis is conducted based on key policy factors, including research and development (R&D), cybersecurity education, risk assessment, and counter-cybercrime measures. The study reveals that Pakistan’s policy lacks clear provisions for public-private partnerships, structured capacity-building initiatives, and comprehensive risk assessment mechanisms. Unlike Bangladesh, which emphasizes cybersecurity awareness at all levels and integrates cybersecurity into its national education curriculum, Pakistan’s policy remains limited in scope and implementation strategies. The findings highlight the need for Pakistan to enhance its cybersecurity policy framework by incorporating proactive risk management, increased investment in R&D, and structured legal frameworks to support cybersecurity initiatives. This study contributes to the discourse on improving national cybersecurity policies in developing nations by identifying best practices that can bridge existing policy gaps.