Global Telecom Leaders Unite to Boost Submarine Cable Security

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) have united to establish an advisory body focused on enhancing submarine cable resilience. This initiative is timely, given the recent incidents involving subsea cables in the Baltic Sea.
Submarine cables are crucial as they handle over 99% of international data transfers, powering e-commerce, financial systems, and essential services. However, they face risks such as damage from fishing, anchors, natural hazards, equipment failure, and potential sabotage. The ITU reports around 150 to 200 faults annually.

This advisory body will unite governments, industry leaders, and experts to craft strategies for cable protection, accelerate repairs, and mitigate risks to the network. “The formation of this International Advisory Body with ITU marks another step toward safeguarding our global digital infrastructure,” said Graham Evans, ICPC Chair. By facilitating global cooperation, the group aims to establish consistent practices to protect vital cable networks, supporting global connectivity.

The advisory group comprises 40 members, including government officials, telecom regulators, and industry experts. It is co-chaired by Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Sandra Maximiano, Chair of Portugal’s National Communications Authority (ANACOM).

The initial virtual meeting is scheduled for next month, with an in-person gathering planned at the Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Nigeria in February. This new initiative follows the breaking of submarine cables in the Baltic Sea, which captured international attention. An investigation suggests possible sabotage by state actors, reflecting the importance and vulnerability of these networks.

The Swedish Prime Minister requested the return of the Chinese cargo ship Yi Peng 3 for investigation, as the incident occurred within Sweden’s exclusive economic zone. There is suspicion that the ship might have deliberately dragged its anchor, damaging the cables over a 100-mile stretch.

The investigation remains active, with cooperation from the ship’s crew. Experts from Chatham House, like Katja Bego, note that both sabotage and accidents are being considered.