International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) have jointly launched International Advisory Body for submarine cable resilience to strengthen the resilience of submarine cables, which are essential to the functioning of global digital economy.
Submarine telecommunication cables are the backbone of global communication, carrying approximately 99 per cent of internet traffic and supporting critical services such as commerce, finance, government operations, digital health, and education. However, these cables are vulnerable to damage, with an estimated 150-200 faults occurring globally every year. Damage is caused by a range of factors including fishing, anchoring, natural hazards, and equipment failure. The advisory body has been formed to address such challenges.
The international advisory body will work towards promoting best practices across governments and industries to improve cable resilience, reduce risks of damage, and ensure the swift repair and deployment of these vital systems. The advisory body will also provide strategic guidance to address challenges related to increasing traffic, aging infrastructure, and growing environmental threats to submarine cables.
Comprising 40 members from around the world including ministers, heads of regulatory authorities, and senior experts in telecommunications, the body reflects a diverse global perspective. Members come from all regions including Dr Neeraj Mittal, secretary (T), Department of Telecommunications, representing India. It has been ensured that the voices of both small island nations and large economies are represented. The collective experience of the body will help address the needs of those whose livelihoods depend on submarine cables, as well as those responsible for deploying, maintaining, and protecting this critical infrastructure.
The body will be co-chaired by H.E. Minister Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy of Nigeria, and Professor Sandra Maximiano, chair of the board of directors of Portugal’s National Communications Authority (ANACOM). The body will meet at least twice a year to consult on international policies, telecommunications infrastructure, and best practices for improving resilience.
The inaugural virtual meeting is scheduled for December 12, 2024, followed by a physical meeting at the Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Abuja, Nigeria, in February 2025.
