Submarine cables, stretching over 1.7 million kilometres globally, form the backbone of digital connectivity for countries, communities, businesses, and individuals. Despite their critical role, these cables are vulnerable to damage from human activity, natural hazards, and equipment failure. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding this infrastructure, countries and companies are increasingly cooperating to enhance the resilience of submarine cables.
The International Telecommunication Union ITU and the International Cable Protection Committee ICPC have collaborated to strengthen this critical infrastructure. In 2024, the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience was established, led by Nigeria and Portugal, bringing together 42 members from governments, operators, and the cable industry. Its mission is practical: to improve cable protection, accelerate repairs, mitigate risks, enhance redundancy, and share best practices globally. The first Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Abuja, Nigeria, in early 2025, demonstrated the value of cross-border collaboration. The second summit, scheduled for 1-2 February in Porto, Portugal, aims to solidify cooperation on these critical issues.
Submarine cables face roughly 200 faults annually, with over 80 caused by fishing and anchoring, while the rest result from natural hazards or technical failures. Expanding cable networks and growing global demand for AI, cloud services, and industrial applications have increased the stakes for connectivity. Challenges such as regulatory barriers, limited repair vessel availability, and strategic risk zones like the Red Sea highlight the need for coordinated action. The Advisory Body promotes practical cooperation among governments, private operators, and international organizations to streamline repairs, diversify cable routes, improve information-sharing, and support countries vulnerable to single points of failure. The upcoming summit in Porto seeks to move from discussion to actionable steps, reinforcing the collective responsibility to maintain these vital digital lifelines.
