Francesca Bosco

Francesca Bosco is Deputy Head of UNIDIR’s Security and Technology Programme, where she contributes to research, policy dialogue and practical approaches to emerging technology-related security challenges. She is an international expert and strategic adviser on digital resilience, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, with more than two decades of experience at the intersection of technology, international security, human rights and global cooperation.

Prior to joining UNIDIR, Francesca served as Chief Strategy Officer at Protect.NGO, where she led strategic development, partnerships and initiatives advancing digital resilience, cybersecurity and responsible technology. She previously held senior roles at the World Economic Forum and the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), working at the intersection of cyber, emerging and enabling technologies and international security. Her work has examined how technologies including cloud and quantum computing, artificial intelligence and robotics, and their increasing convergence are reshaping security, crime prevention and resilience, as well as the associated governance, human rights and responsible-use implications.

Across these roles, she has worked with governments, international organizations, civil society, academia and the private sector to translate complex technological developments into policy, governance and operational approaches. She has also contributed to the strategic governance of international initiatives through board and advisory roles spanning cybersecurity, technology governance and the public interest.

Francesca holds a Master’s degree with honours in International Law from the University of Turin. She speaks Italian, English and French.