In response to rising vulnerabilities in global telecommunications, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is establishing an International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience. These cables, responsible for carrying over 99 percent of international data, are critical to the global digital economy, enabling communication, finance, and cloud services. However, they are increasingly susceptible to disruptions caused by natural disasters and accidents.
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New Advisory Body
The Advisory Body, set to begin on November 1, 2024, will focus on strengthening the resilience of submarine cables. Co-chaired by Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, and Sandra Maximiano, Chair of Portugal's ANACOM, it will bring together governments, industry leaders, and international organisations.
Focus Area
Key objectives include providing strategic guidance, promoting best practices, and fostering international cooperation on policies, technical advancements, and investment strategies to safeguard these essential systems.
The group's first virtual meeting is scheduled for November 2024, where it will define its agenda and deliverables. Members will also contribute to the upcoming Submarine Cable Resilience Summit, set for early 2025.
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The ITU's initiative underscores the urgency of protecting submarine cables, which are increasingly vital to global connectivity and economic stability.
