網路選舉干預於國際法之合法性—以網路攻擊為中心

Abstract

網路選舉干預近年來成為世界各國無論有無意識皆經歷的現象。網路時代的到來使對於國家的攻擊不再須要透過傳統武力或威脅。這意味著，受害國將面臨訊息和網絡勢力的全新挑戰。本論文將借助國際法原則，包括禁止武力使用、不干預原則、主權原則以及民族自決原則進而探討網路選舉干預在國際法上的合法性。將在釐清「網路攻擊」與「網路干預」之前提下，以網路攻擊為前提進行合法性之檢驗。

本文在討論國際法之系爭原則時，將透過研究2007年愛沙尼亞遭受俄羅斯的網路攻擊導致網絡癱瘓、2010年震網（Stuxnet）攻擊伊朗納坦茲（Natanz）核設施，以及2016年俄羅斯干預美國總統大選的案例疏理目前國際法於網路上之適用。在嘗試闡明這些國際法原則在網路之適用範圍的同時，將以美國遭受選舉干預為借鏡，並以其法理探討中國針對臺灣長期的干預是否為國際法廣義上之「網路攻擊」。

This thesis examines the consistency of cyber election interference under international law, with a focus on the events that Taiwan has been subject to during its recent elections. By exploring various international norms, this thesis aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the considerations surrounding cyber election interferences within the framework of cyber-attacks under international law.

The thesis addresses these questions by delving into four key aspects of international law. First, it explores the prohibition on the use of force in the context of cyberspace. Second, it examines the principle of nonintervention, considering elements like coercion. Third, it scrutinizes the principle of domaine réservé. Lastly, it assesses the potential violation of self-determination. To support this analysis, the thesis employs case studies of notable cyber-attacks, primarily focusing on the Estonia cyberattacks, the Stuxnet incident, and the 2016 U.S. election interferences.

Although activities in cyberspace are relatively new and require thorough discussion, this thesis investigates the implications of election interference from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in Taiwan’s elections. The various forms of interference, ranging from missile launches in the Taiwan Strait to propaganda and disinformation campaigns during critical election periods.

This thesis will conclude that while current cyber election interference operations may not unequivocally violate international law, the unique circumstances of Taiwan’s relationship and interactions with the PRC cast a new light on the existing principles of international law.