Yes, countries can choose to have stricter cybersecurity standards as long as these rules align with European Union laws; the NIS2 directive sets a minimum cybersecurity standard, allowing flexibility for Member States to introduce measures providing even higher cybersecurity protections specific to their national needs and circumstances.

Minimum harmonisation’ means the NIS2 directive defines basic cybersecurity standards every EU country must follow, but it also allows countries to implement stronger rules if they wish, ensuring each nation can respond effectively to their unique security risks and challenges beyond what is minimally required by the directive.

Additional cybersecurity measures introduced by Member States must not conflict with existing European Union obligations; all new national rules must consistently support EU principles and laws and not undermine or contradict established cybersecurity frameworks set forth at the EU level under the NIS2 directive.

Countries might choose stricter cybersecurity measures to address unique threats or vulnerabilities particular to their infrastructure, industry, or public services, striving to protect sensitive national assets or provide stronger protection for critical sectors beyond the standard requirements featured in the NIS2 directive’s minimum cybersecurity rules.