Public-Private Ties Necessary to Tackle Cyber Talent Gap: WEF

As cyberthreats grow in complexity and frequency, the global shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals is widening, placing critical digital infrastructure at risk. A new report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) emphasizes that bridging this talent gap requires more than individual efforts; it demands strategic collaboration through public-private partnerships (PPPs).

The cybersecurity talent shortage is impacting countries worldwide, including Mexico, according to Erika Urbina, Country Manager, Trellix. This gap persists despite organizations spending US$200 billion annually on cybersecurity, with a 28% vacancy rate in cybersecurity roles hindering their ability to respond effectively to escalating threats, according to Boston Consulting Group.

To help close this gap, a new report from the World Economic Forum highlights the role public-private partnerships (PPPs) can take in accelerating cybersecurity talent development by combining the strengths of both sectors. While private entities offer technical expertise, agility, and funding, public institutions provide policy support, broader reach, and long-term strategic alignment.

“Cooperation between public-private organizations is essential to combat the growing cyber threat,” says Omar Alcalá, Cybersecurity Director, Tenable Latin America.

However, the WEF notes that forming and sustaining effective partnerships is not without obstacles. Differing operational speeds, misaligned expectations, and limited access to key stakeholders often hinder collaboration. Additionally, global initiatives may overlook regional specificities, reducing their effectiveness on the ground.

To address these barriers, the WEF calls for partnerships that are both inclusive and context-aware. A critical success factor is the integration of project management practices that keep efforts aligned with evolving industry needs and local realities. The report also stresses the importance of establishing sustainable mechanisms, such as permanent training centers, to ensure long-term impact.

The findings suggest that when strategically designed, PPPs can drive scalable and sustainable initiatives, including targeted training programs and public awareness campaigns. These efforts can help produce a cybersecurity workforce capable of protecting organizations and institutions against emerging threats.