UN Forms New Organization to Protect Submarine Internet Cables

The UN forms an international advisory body to enhance the resilience of undersea internet cables, ensuring the stability and security of global communications infrastructure.

Geneva — In today’s hyper-connected world, the reliability of undersea internet cables is critical. These cables, responsible for transmitting over 99% of global digital data, power essential services across industries like finance, commerce, healthcare, and education. To safeguard this vital infrastructure, the United Nations has unveiled a bold new initiative.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the UN, has announced the formation of the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience. This agency will work alongside industry leaders to bolster the security and resilience of submarine cables, which are increasingly vulnerable to disruptions.

Submarine cables are the silent backbone of the digital age. Stretching thousands of miles across oceans, these cables facilitate the exchange of international data at lightning speed. From sending emails to conducting billion-dollar financial transactions, their functionality is indispensable.

According to the ITU, over 200 cable repair incidents were reported in 2023, an alarming figure that underscores the urgent need for action. Threats range from natural disasters to human activities like fishing and anchoring, with occasional concerns about geopolitical sabotage.

The International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience has laid out a comprehensive plan to protect this infrastructure:

• Strengthening Cable Resilience: Developing strategies to minimize risks and enhance the durability of existing networks.
• Promoting Best Practices: Encouraging governments and industries to adopt uniform safety standards.
• Fostering Rapid Repairs: Ensuring swift action to restore connectivity when cables are damaged.
• Encouraging Collaboration: Facilitating dialogue among governments, regulators, technical experts, and private stakeholders.

This multi stakeholder approach is vital, as undersea cables underpin not only the digital economy but also critical governmental and financial operations.

While the ITU avoids delving into politically sensitive matters, such as speculations of sabotage by state actors like Russia or China, it acknowledges the rising risks. The sheer volume of incidents—averaging more than three repairs per week—highlights how exposed this infrastructure is to both accidental and deliberate damage.

Geopolitical tensions have further complicated the situation, making collective global action imperative. “We cannot overstate the importance of these cables,” an ITU official remarked. “Securing them ensures stability for the entire world’s communications.”

The International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), a trade organization working alongside the advisory body, underscores the importance of cooperation. Protecting submarine cables requires synchronized efforts from multiple entities, including technical experts, governments, and private firms.

By fostering open communication and sharing expertise, the ITU and its partners aim to create a framework that not only responds to current challenges but also anticipates future risks.

As the UN steps up to protect this invisible yet essential infrastructure, the focus shifts to ensuring uninterrupted global connectivity. The ITU’s initiative is a testament to the growing recognition that the world’s reliance on digital networks demands robust safeguards.

From facilitating international trade to enabling virtual learning, submarine cables are the lifeline of our globalized society. By taking these proactive steps, the UN aims to secure a more resilient digital future.

• Submarine Cables Matter: Over 99% of global data flows through these undersea networks.
• Rising Threats: Natural disasters, human interference, and potential sabotage make them vulnerable.
• UN’s Response: A new international advisory body aims to enhance cable security and resilience.
• Collaborative Efforts: The initiative encourages dialogue among governments, industries, and experts.