Panel 3 – Legal and Regulatory Tools to Reduce Risks and Strengthen Resilience
3 Feb 2026 10:15h - 11:30h
Panel 3 – Legal and Regulatory Tools to Reduce Risks and Strengthen Resilience
Session at a glance
Summary
This discussion featured a panel of telecommunications regulators from Singapore, Brazil, Bahrain, the European Commission, and Cape Verde discussing submarine cable protection and resilience strategies. The moderator, Augusto Fragoso, emphasized that submarine cables are critical infrastructure, noting that “without submarine cables, every country, every continent is in fact an island.”
Singapore’s representative, Ng Cher Pong, described their successful “single window approach” for managing 32 submarine cables, which includes coordinated government agency cooperation, protected shipping corridors, and deeper cable burial to prevent cuts. Singapore has achieved zero cable cuts in territorial waters and leads ASEAN efforts to streamline regional cable protection through enhanced guidelines requiring 7-10 day approval processes and single points of contact across member states.
Brazil’s Gustavo Borges shared their experience protecting cable infrastructure in Fortaleza from a desalination project that threatened existing cables, demonstrating how regulatory coordination with industry and international bodies like ICPC can successfully resolve infrastructure conflicts. Bahrain’s Philip Marnick explained how classifying submarine cables as critical infrastructure has improved protection, while also developing cable corridors and interconnection frameworks to enhance routing diversity around geopolitical hotspots.
The European Commission’s Johannes Theiss outlined their 2024 recommendations and 2025 action plan, which include risk assessments, security toolboxes, and hundreds of millions of euros in funding for cable projects and repair capacity. Cape Verde’s Leonilde Tatiana described their strategic positioning as an Atlantic digital hub, with three submarine cables and comprehensive inter-island fiber networks, while developing new regulatory frameworks for incident reporting and emergency response.
All panelists agreed that the primary challenge is implementing existing recommendations rather than creating new frameworks, emphasizing the need for practical regional cooperation over unified global regulations.
Keypoints
Major Discussion Points:
– National approaches to submarine cable protection and regulation: Panelists shared diverse strategies including Singapore’s single-window approach for managing 32+ cables in constrained waters, Brazil’s experience protecting cable infrastructure from competing projects like desalination plants, and Bahrain’s classification of cables as critical infrastructure with comprehensive territorial planning.
– Regional cooperation and harmonization efforts: Discussion of ASEAN’s Enhanced Guidelines on submarine cable resilience, the EU’s comprehensive action plan with risk assessments and funding initiatives (hundreds of millions of euros), and the challenge of balancing global recommendations with local regulatory realities across different legal frameworks.
– Practical implementation challenges and solutions: Focus on reducing cable repair times, ensuring adequate repair capacity as cable numbers grow, coordinating between multiple government agencies, and addressing cross-sector conflicts (fishing, shipping, offshore development) that threaten cable infrastructure.
– The role of international bodies and knowledge sharing: Examination of how organizations like the International Advisory Body (IAB), ITU, and regional groups facilitate best practice sharing, with emphasis on moving from recommendations to concrete actions and avoiding regulatory frameworks that solve the wrong problems.
– Funding and capacity building initiatives: Discussion of public-private cooperation, EU funding for stress tests and regional cable hubs, emergency repair capacity, and the need for capacity building workshops to help countries implement international guidelines effectively.
Overall Purpose:
The discussion aimed to examine how different countries and regions are developing legal and regulatory frameworks to protect submarine cable infrastructure, share best practices for cable resilience, and explore how international cooperation can strengthen global connectivity while addressing practical implementation challenges.
Overall Tone:
The discussion maintained a collaborative and constructive tone throughout, with panelists openly sharing both successes and challenges from their respective jurisdictions. There was notable humor and warmth (references to port wine, tuna, and local hospitality), but the conversation remained focused on serious infrastructure protection issues. The tone became increasingly practical and action-oriented as the discussion progressed, with participants emphasizing the need to move from recommendations to concrete implementation rather than creating more theoretical frameworks.
Speakers
Speakers from the provided list:
– Augusto Fragoso – Moderator of the panel discussion
– Ng Cher Pong – Chief Executive Officer, Infocom Media Development Authority, Singapore
– Gustavo Borges – Executive Superintendent, National Telecommunications Agency (ANATEL), Brazil
– Philip Marnick – General Director, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Bahrain
– Johannes Theiss – Head of Sector of the Director General for Communications Network, Content and Technology (DG Connect), European Commission
– Leonilde Tatiana – Chairperson of the Administration Board, ARM (Economic Sectorial Regulatory Agency), Cape Verde
– Moderator – (appears to be the same person as Augusto Fragoso based on context)
– Audience Member – Multiple audience members who asked questions during the Q&A session
Additional speakers:
– Neşet Dejdedi – Representative from Turkey’s Information and Communications Authority (identified during audience Q&A)
Full session report
This comprehensive panel discussion brought together telecommunications regulators from five jurisdictions to examine the critical challenge of submarine cable protection and resilience in an increasingly connected world. Moderated by Augusto Fragoso, who opened with humor about the planned rain being appropriate for discussing “underwater matters” and eloquently framed the discussion by noting that “without submarine cables, every country, every continent is in fact an island,” the session explored how different regulatory approaches are evolving to protect what has become the backbone of global digital connectivity. Fragoso described the panelists as “architects of the legal life jackets that keep the underwater cables afloat” and structured the discussion as a round of questions with five minutes for each panelist to respond.
National Approaches to Submarine Cable Protection
The discussion revealed diverse but complementary strategies for protecting submarine cable infrastructure at the national level. Singapore’s approach, presented by Chief Executive Officer Ng Cher Pong from the Infocom Media Development Authority, demonstrated how geographical constraints can drive innovative regulatory solutions. With 32 submarine cables currently landing in Singapore and ambitions to accommodate another 20 over the next decade, the city-state has developed what they term a “single window approach” or “one-stop shop” born out of necessity. Operating within just 700 square kilometres whilst hosting the world’s second busiest port creates unique challenges that require coordinated government response.
Singapore’s success in achieving zero cable cuts within territorial waters stems from comprehensive inter-agency coordination. They work closely with land use authorities to secure dedicated landing sites, collaborate with the Maritime Port Authority to establish protected corridors where ships cannot anchor, and coordinate burial requirements in territorial waters. This coordinated approach addresses significant threats to cable infrastructure, with Ng Cher Pong referencing statistics from “Ken’s presentation yesterday at ICBC” indicating that commercial fishing and anchors account for 70% of all cable cuts globally.
Brazil’s experience, shared by Executive Superintendent Gustavo Borges from the National Telecommunications Agency (ANATEL), illustrated how regulatory authorities must sometimes intervene to protect existing infrastructure from competing development projects. The case study of Fortaleza demonstrated the complex political and technical challenges involved when popular public projects—in this case, a desalination plant intended to provide potable water to drought-affected populations—threaten critical telecommunications infrastructure. The months-long process involved formal opposition, media engagement during election season, and coordination with industry partners, ultimately succeeding in relocating the desalination project. This highlighted the growing problem of cross-risk between submarine cable landing areas and other infrastructure developments.
Bahrain’s approach, outlined by General Director Philip Marnick from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, showcased how small island nations can leverage regulatory classification to enhance protection. By formally classifying telecommunications submarine cables as critical infrastructure, Bahrain has created a comprehensive framework that addresses both current and future challenges. Their approach includes holistic planning that accounts for the nation’s expanding land mass through artificial island construction, coordination with shipping movements in the busy Gulf waters, and the development of cable corridors that remain viable over time. Particularly innovative is their consultation on interconnection between international cable systems, enabling routing diversity around geopolitical hotspots by allowing one cable system to connect with another across Bahraini territory.
Cape Verde’s positioning as an Atlantic digital hub was described by Chairperson Leonilde Tatiana from the Economic Sectorial Regulatory Agency (ARM). With ten islands (one uninhabited) connected by 11 fiber optic segments in a ring configuration for redundancy, and three submarine cables including the Axe-Ella Link, Cape Verde demonstrates how strategic planning and institutional stability can create attractive investment environments. Their geographic position offers significant advantages as a connection point for Atlantic submarine cables.
Regional Cooperation and Harmonisation Efforts
The discussion revealed that effective submarine cable protection increasingly requires regional coordination, as individual national efforts prove insufficient for infrastructure that spans continents. Singapore’s leadership role in ASEAN exemplifies this approach, with Ng Cher Pong describing how they chair a working group on submarine cables and recently launched the Enhanced ASEAN Guidelines on Strengthening the Repair and Resilience of Submarine Cables, endorsed by ASEAN Digital Ministers.
These guidelines represent a significant step towards regional harmonisation, incorporating International Advisory Body (IAB) recommendations and establishing concrete commitments such as streamlining approval processes to 7-10 working days and designating single points of contact across all ASEAN member states. The next phase focuses on implementation through capacity building workshops, recognising that commitments must translate into practical action.
The European Union’s approach, presented by Johannes Theiss from the European Commission’s DG Connect, demonstrates how regional bodies can develop comprehensive policy frameworks while maintaining flexibility. The EU’s February 2024 recommendations on secure and resilient infrastructures, followed by the 2025 EU plan for cable security, represent what Theiss described as “comparably soft policy that is able to move rather fast and agile.” The expert group model, including Commission representatives, EU member states, and the European Cyber Security Agency, has delivered on key objectives including infrastructure mapping, coordinated risk assessment, and identification of priority funding areas.
Significantly, the EU has committed substantial financial resources, with hundreds of millions of euros allocated for submarine cable projects. This includes immediate funding of €10 million for stress tests (with applications due by March deadline) and another €10 million for regional cable hubs in the Baltic, with additional hundreds of millions planned to help projects overcome profitability gaps. A conference scheduled for March 24th in Brussels will provide additional details on these initiatives.
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
A central theme throughout the discussion was the recognition that the primary challenge lies not in developing new recommendations but in implementing existing ones effectively. This consensus emerged strongly across all panelists, with particular emphasis on addressing practical bottlenecks that affect cable resilience.
Ng Cher Pong highlighted two critical implementation challenges that require immediate attention. First, average cable repair times have increased, necessitating systematic analysis of delay causes and practical solutions. Second, with the growing number of submarine cables globally, there are legitimate concerns about whether sufficient repair capacity exists to handle anticipated future needs. He questioned whether market forces alone would address these capacity gaps, suggesting potential need for coordinated intervention.
The Brazilian experience emphasised the value of cross-sector coordination, particularly between telecommunications experts and naval authorities. Gustavo Borges described how joint exercises and simulations create shared knowledge and responsibility, enabling teams to “think outside the line” when developing solutions for critical disruptions. These coordination exercises have proven valuable for updating regulations and improving emergency response capabilities.
Philip Marnick provided crucial insight into the challenge of regulatory learning and adaptation. He warned against the common practice of copying other countries’ regulatory solutions without understanding the underlying problems they were designed to address, noting that regulators often “have a fantastic solution for something that may not be their problem.” This observation influenced the broader discussion about the limitations of harmonised legal frameworks and the importance of context-specific solutions.
Governance Models and Regulatory Innovation
The discussion revealed innovative approaches to regulatory governance that address the complex interdependencies of modern digital infrastructure. Cape Verde’s multisectoral regulatory model represents a particularly interesting approach, with ARM regulating telecommunications, energy (including electricity and fuels), water and sewage, and urban transport. This integrated model appears well-suited to address the complex requirements of modern digital infrastructure, particularly data centres that require coordination across telecommunications, electricity, and water services.
Leonilde Tatiana described their market study identifying operators with significant market power and imposing regulatory measures, demonstrating how multisectoral authorities can address competition issues across interconnected infrastructure sectors. Cape Verde also participates in cross-border cooperation frameworks and holds the presidency of the association of regulators from Portuguese-speaking countries, illustrating how smaller nations can leverage regional relationships to enhance their regulatory effectiveness.
Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building
The discussion highlighted significant gaps in knowledge sharing and capacity building that limit effective implementation of submarine cable protection measures. Gustavo Borges made a particularly important observation about representation gaps in international bodies, noting that he was “the only member for the South America country” in the IAB, suggesting that entire regions lack adequate voice in developing global recommendations.
This representation gap has practical implications for implementation, as global recommendations may not adequately address regional-specific threats and situations. Borges proposed establishing regional forums to debate recommendations and facilitate better understanding of how global guidelines can be adapted to local contexts. This suggestion gained support from other panelists who recognised the importance of regional approaches as stepping stones to global coordination.
Audience Questions and Interactive Discussion
The session included substantial audience participation, with several important questions that expanded the discussion. A representative from Turkey proposed creating a dedicated knowledge platform within the ITU to centralise regulations, rules, cases, and best practices, recognising that current information sharing mechanisms may be inadequate for the complexity of modern submarine cable governance.
A software developer asked about maritime domain awareness systems and surveillance above submarine cables, raising important questions about the division of responsibility between military and civilian authorities. The Brazilian experience of coordination between ANATEL and the Navy suggests that hybrid approaches may be necessary, combining telecommunications expertise with maritime security capabilities.
The final rapid-fire question to all panelists asked about major legal challenges, revealing the breadth of issues facing regulators from implementation gaps to cross-sector coordination challenges.
Financial Mechanisms and Economic Considerations
The discussion revealed a notable shift towards public sector involvement in submarine cable infrastructure, traditionally considered a private market domain. The European Union’s commitment of hundreds of millions of euros represents a significant policy evolution, justified by the critical nature of submarine cables for economic security and digital sovereignty.
Johannes Theiss explained that EU funding aims to address market failures by helping projects overcome profitability gaps rather than replacing private investment. The approach includes targeted support for emergency repair capacity, recognising that while private markets function well under normal circumstances, additional security layers may be necessary during crisis situations.
Singapore’s approach reflects the economic imperative driving cable protection efforts, with the digital economy comprising 18% of GDP making submarine cables strategically critical infrastructure. This economic dependency justifies the substantial coordination efforts required across multiple government agencies and the investment in protective measures.
Consensus on Implementation Over Innovation
Perhaps the most significant outcome of the discussion was the strong consensus that emerged around prioritising implementation of existing recommendations over developing new regulatory frameworks. This consensus cut across different regulatory philosophies and national contexts, suggesting a mature recognition that the submarine cable protection challenge is primarily one of execution rather than policy development.
The moderator’s observation that “the time is to acting not as producing more acts, but putting in practice the ones that we already have” captured this sentiment effectively. This shift towards implementation focus has important implications for international cooperation, suggesting that future efforts should concentrate on practical mechanisms for coordination, capacity building, and resource sharing rather than additional policy development.
Conclusion
The discussion revealed a regulatory community that has evolved significantly in its understanding of submarine cable protection challenges. The movement away from purely national approaches towards regional coordination, the recognition of implementation gaps over policy gaps, and the acceptance of public sector roles in traditionally private infrastructure markets all indicate a maturing field.
The path forward appears to lie in practical, incremental steps that build trust, share knowledge, and create the relationships necessary for effective coordination when cable protection challenges inevitably arise. As the session concluded with thanks to the panelists and an invitation to lunch, the consensus was clear: the focus must shift from developing new frameworks to implementing existing solutions effectively across diverse national and regional contexts.
Session transcript
Good morning all. Ashley, my dear colleague that has engaged on organizing all these, Ilda here, failed on something. We have water, we don’t have port wine on those cups.
It would be much more interesting and more creative to have Well, Sandra said yesterday at dinner that we are very good at improvising. Actually, we are also very good at planning. That’s why we have planned all this water, all this rain, because we thought if it’s to discuss underwater matters, we might as well do it hands -on in a very, very wet environment.
So we didn’t fail there. So we failed on the port wine, but not in the wet environment. It’s said that no man is an island, but without submarine cables, every country, every continent is in fact an island.
And what we have here today in this panel and who we have here today in this panel are exactly the architects of the legal life jackets that keep the underwater cables afloat. So, ladies and gentlemen, let’s welcome Sandra. our speakers, Mr.
Ng Cher Pong from the Infocom Media Development Authority in Singapore and is the Chief Executive Officer. Applause to him. Mr.
Gustavo Borges, Executive Superintendent from the National Telecommunications Agency in Brazil. Mr.Philip Marnick, the General Director of Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in Bahrain. Mr.
Johannes Theiss, Head of Sector of the Director General for Communications Network, Content and Technology, DG Connect actually, from the European Commission. And Mrs. Leonilde Tatiana, the Chairperson of the European Commission.
of the Administration Board of ARM, the Economic Sectorial Regulatory Agency in Cape Verde. So we will be conducting a round of questions. One to each person, five minutes to the answer.
And I will start at the far end with Mr. Pong. Singapore’s single window approach for handling submarine cables matters is often cited as a good practice.
Could you share your experience overall and after all these years having that practice? So what’s working actually and what’s not working? Because we always say that we like to learn from others.
So from our own errors that we produce, I prefer to learn from other errors. So what works, what not works in the model, what you think could be improved and your vision about it.
Okay, sure. Thank you very much. Well, Singapore’s single window approach or what we call in Singapore one -stop shop, right, was really born out of necessity and it’s because, I mean, just to give a bit of context, we currently have 32 cables that land in Singapore for submarine cables.
We have ambitions to land another 20 over the next 10 years, right? And this is crucial for us because the digital economy forms 18 % of Singapore’s GDP. So we take cables very seriously.
They are of strategic importance to Singapore. But at the same time, we’re probably one of the most constrained countries when it comes to landing cables because we also happen to be only 700 square kilometers in land size. We have a lot of land.
We have the second busiest port in the world. in the world and many of the big ships are actually parked on our territorial waters, sinking cables. And if you recall, I think Ken’s presentation yesterday at ICBC, commercial fishing and anchors account for 70 % of all cable cuts.
And therefore, because of that, years ago we decided that we needed to take a coordinated approach across government agencies. We worked with land use authorities to secure landing sites for landing stations. We worked very closely with the Maritime Port Authority, for example, to make sure that there is a protected corridor in our shores where actually the ships cannot park, cannot sink anchors, and we use that for submarine cables to land.
And of course, as an added precaution, we make the operators bury the cables deeper. So they bury the cables somewhere between 4 to 12 meters deep. in our territorial waters.
So as a result of that, I mean, I mean, we’re happy to say actually we don’t have cable cuts in our territorial waters. It does take an incredible amount of effort, though, just coordinating with other government agencies because obviously every government agency has their own requirements, has their own interests, and we have had to work hard at it.
But I’m happy to say I think today we have a system that works. Where it hasn’t worked as well, I think, is exactly the point of the IAB, which is you can protect your cables within your territorial waters, but it’s no good because the cables work only when they’re well -connected around the world.
And therefore, we have been working together with the region in ASEAN itself to make sure that there is emphasis on cable protection, on resilience, repair of cables. In fact, Singapore, we chair a working group on submarine cables in ASEAN, and because we’re also a member of IAB, where that’s helped us, we try to coordinate. the recommendations coming out from IAB, translate that into how the approach that ASEAN takes.
So earlier, a couple of weeks ago, we just launched in ASEAN the Enhanced ASEAN Guidelines on Strengthening the Repair and Resilience of Submarine Cables. That was endorsed by the ASEAN Digital Ministers. Within the guidelines, the ASEAN countries have committed to working towards best practices in line with IAB recommendations, such as shortening the, streamlining the approval process so that there’s a reference to working towards giving approval for submarine cables within seven to ten working days.
There is, within the Enhanced Guidelines as well, a single point of contact across all the ASEAN member states. So maybe I’ll just stop there. Thank you.
Well, thank you. It’s impressive because in Singapore, there are landing there 30 -something cables. Next question would be for Gustavo.
Gustavo. Gustavo. Gustavo has fled.
active role in protecting submarine cable infrastructure in the landing zone of Fortaleza, Brazil. And we know that there is a high demanding process related with the salinization project that endangered extensive infrastructure in that area. Could you share with us your experience and key insights from this process, including your coordination with ICPC?
Yes, thank you. Yes, I want to share some information about this project that was an experience that we faced. The major part of the submarine cables, they came to a state that we call Ceará in Brazil, the northeast.
And at that very moment, the government, the local government has announced a new project of building a new submarine cable. A new using of decriminalization. That means that if he will take the water from the sea, proceed in it, returning sail to the sea and taking, delivering potable water to the population.
This is a region where we suffer about dry weather and conditions, and so this is a huge popular project, bringing potable water to the population. But the real problem was the place that they chose to start this project. They bought terrain very near from the sunburned cables, and so at that moment we noticed that and started to say to the government that it was not a good idea.
We wanted to start this project in this area, but as the project was very popular, also reflects on elections and so they were very intended to maintain this project and then they started to provide some engineering solutions like i will put a great wall here dividing the space and we said no there’s no way to to to be together this these two uh infrastructure and we started to make some formal positive of that that project and after a while the discussions scaled to other authorities and agencies in brazil and after a while the media starts to cover and so at that very moment we start to see the problem through all the televisions from the people looking to the problem and so after months of discussion the local governmental decide to move and play this new project in another place.
So it was a victory about the submarine resilience and risk management. And I do like to thank the ICPC because their support and their recommendations were fundamental on this discussion, and also with the industry and companies. They were very cooperative working with the Anatel, which is their regulatory body, to make the protection of this critical infrastructure.
So I think this makes a highlight of what we are doing here. We are providing new recommendations. It’s an advisory body of international committee, so it’s very strong.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you. and sensibilizing the other authorities about the protection that we need in the submarine cables.
That’s it.
Yes, it’s a growing problem. Actually, the cross -risk between other projects and the submarine cable landing areas, we also have it in Portugal, for instance, with the offshore windmills and how all that grows together. My next question would be for Philip.
Philip, Bahrain has recently updated its regulatory framework to classify telecommunications submarine cables as critical infrastructure. We have been talking about this in many countries. Bahrain already did it.
So the question is, has this regulatory change contributed effectively to the reduction in cable damage or improved, in practical terms, protection?
Yes. Obviously, the answer is yes. For all those who don’t know, Bahrain is an island nation in the Arabian Gulf.
Like most islands, we need to be connected. We have phenomenal digital infrastructure on our territory. We have a massive digital economy.
Everything we do is digital. But being digital means that data flows from data centres across the world. People want access everywhere.
We live in a part of the world where occasionally there’s a bit of tension. So, for example, some of our routings around the corner through the Red Sea into Europe occasionally have a slight problem. And for us, therefore, we need to look not just at the access arrangements into the country, but also where is the data going to and coming from, and how are we getting from there to where we are.
So we’re trying to look holistically at the problem we face. In our territorial waters as well, we have another great challenge. Our nation’s land mass grows.
We build new land. We build new islands. We continuously expand.
This therefore means that when we’re looking at where we’re going to put cables, we need to understand with a good view of the future where actually the sea will be. Where will the land be? So we’re planning across the government and all the agencies, how do we make sure we know where there’s landing sites to enable us to terminate and land cables where we need them to give diversity so that we understand if this point you land here, where else can you actually land in the territory?
We’re looking at all the sea routes we have, where the shipping comes and goes. The Gulf is quite a busy place. Are we quite?
shallow, we also take a lot of sand from the sea. We’re also looking again, where can we have cable corridors and cable routes that enable them to be stable in there for a while? Noting it was said yesterday, everyone wants the shortest route.
Is the shortest route the shortest route today, or the shortest route tomorrow? And we’re looking at that as well. So we’ve tried to make sure that we have very firm corridors and routes, we understand where they are, and when new cables come, we know where they’re going to be.
We make sure our mapping systems are solid right across the Gulf area to make sure that people know where cables are. We’ve taken regulatory action with the Coast Guard and others to make sure that people do not anchor in the places where they shouldn’t be, and we take action there. We have an awful lot of shipping movements around, and we need to make sure we take care of that.
So those are the practical things we’re doing to try and build where we’re trying to get cables. The second bit for us we’ve looked, which is currently a bit of regulation we’ve been consulting on, is we’re looking at how we introduce… the concept of interconnection between international cable systems.
This will enable then somebody with one cable system to land in one place and actually use a different cable system to exit across the territory to enable them to go onwards to different ways. This we’re finding is routings to enable diversity around some of the world’s hot spots because it enables them to actually have a routing that should have gone that way to a routing that comes this way and then goes to a cable that way.
We work with our neighbour countries to do that. So for us, our planning is to make sure we have good routes, to make sure we have good protection, to make sure the cables are safe. The cables are safe in both the short, medium and long term but also to make sure that we have a regulator regime that encourages the deployment of cables, make sure we’ve got resilience and make sure we are never ever disconnected or anybody can ever think there’s any reason why you wouldn’t host your data centres where we are.
Thank you.
Well, the next one is from Johannes. One year now, in February 2024, the European Commission released its recommendations on secure and resilient infrastructures. They were outlining a series of actions to be taken at national and EU level.
This was followed up now in 2025 by a EU plan for cable security. What is the status of these initiatives? What are the next steps?
Thanks, first of all, for inviting the European Commission to this conference and to ANACOM for being such gracious hosts. I think we greatly appreciate it. And to your question, I think it’s an interesting case because it’s comparably soft policy that is able to move rather fast and agile.
So, as you said, we had in 2024 a recommendation and then followed that up last year with an action plan. The recommendation was focusing on data cables. The action plan also included energy cables.
But I will limit my intervention today to the. data cables part because I’m in the digital department of the European Commission. So what is important is the expert group led to the creation of an – the recommendation led to the creation of an expert group where there’s the Commission but also various EU member states.
And I’m actually very happy to have seen some of the representatives here today from Latvia, Germany, the Netherlands, Greece. Those were just the ones that I saw at this conference. And it’s a nice forum to discuss and agree on things in a, let’s say, not so strict and necessarily binding context.
So in that expert group, you have the Commission, you have the EU member states, you also have the European Cyber Security Agency, ANISA. And the four key deliverables that they have worked upon and we worked with them together, you can find them in the action plan and in the recommendation. They are first a mapping of existing and planned infrastructure.
Second, an EU -coordinated risk assessment, including stress test. guidance, then a cable security toolbox of mitigating measures to address those risks, and finally, an identification of priority areas for public funding. We have delivered on two of those deliverables in October last year, so with quite a comprehensive report.
If you haven’t had the chance yet to read it, I invite you to take a look. It’s quite relevant. What is there in that report is really the mapping part, of course, with an EU focus, but I believe the risk assessment part is more horizontal and could be more interesting also for you, because it tries to look comprehensively at what you find in terms of risks based on threats, vulnerabilities, and dependencies in the submarine cable context.
And then we actually combined that report also with public support. We put out 10 million euros to support stress tests on submarine cables. That call is still open until the end of March.
And also another… another 10 million call for regional cable hubs starting in the Baltic to make sure that immediate neighbors coordinate a bit better between each other. And then, as said yesterday by Executive Vice President Henna Virklunen, in the coming days, we are very close to delivering the second part of the deliverables that I mentioned, meaning if we had the risks back in autumn, we’re now talking about the mitigating measures and the cable security toolbox, and at the same time, trying to come up with some priority areas that we would like to support with public funding in the future.
And that means that there are still several hundreds of millions of euros that are coming on stream for the sector to support projects, to get them across the profitability gap, to make sure that these projects can take off the ground.
And we plan to accompany this with a first call already that is focusing on repair capacity. And there again, I know some people always are afraid that it creates issues, disturbance. is in the private market, let me assure you that this is not what we’re aiming for here.
We really aim at emergency scenarios because we are very well aware that the private market is doing a good job there. It’s just a matter of creating an additional layer of security if really need be. And then last but not least, to finish this round of opening, once we have delivered all this, and again, I invite you to take a look also when it comes out in the coming days.
It’s very interesting for you as well because there are very connections for future cable investments that could be interesting for your regions as well. We’re going to take self end of March with a conference, a bit of self -advertising there, 24th of March, more info to follow. We’re going to organize a submarine cables conference in Brussels.
Thanks a lot.
I have noted financing, public financing coming on. In the near future, so it’s noted. Leonid, what’s up in Cape Verde?
How is the government adapting their licensing and cable protection regimes to address significant new cable investments in the region and to promote cable protection?
Thank you very much. I would like to thank you for the opportunity to be here. Here I’m going to speak in Portuguese.
Submarine cable resilience and protection is a fundamental axis. And when we’re talking about a country such as Cape Verde, an island country, it becomes even more essential because our connectivity, our international connectivity, relies almost entirely on this infrastructure.
on this infrastructure. Cabo Verde has strongly invested in telecommunication infrastructure to improve its connectivity and that includes the development of fiber optic networks and the expansion of mobile networks. We are 10 islands.
One is not inhabited but the connection among the islands is made via fiber optics. We have 11 fiber optic segments interconnecting all the islands that are inhabited. It’s almost like a ring to ensure redundancy and service continuity.
At international level, Cabo Verde has three submarine cables. The Axe -Ella Link cable which was the last one that we connected. It is a private initiative and also shares that connects the prior.
So there is a strong commitment of the country to continue promoting physical and geographical redundancy, but also to strengthening the landing points. And we have a modernization project ongoing at that level as well. Let me tell you a little bit about our role, the role of ARM, the Multisectoral Regulatory Agency of the Economy.
And I’m the president of the board of this entity. It is a multisectoral agency, so we regulate electronic and postal communications, but also the energy sector, including electricity and fuels. We also regulate water and sewage and urban and interurban passenger collective transport.
In terms of… of electronic communications, which is what matters here in the context of safety and resilience, the regulator has a strategic role in terms of prevention and response to disasters. But we have the need to strengthen our legal framework and the oversight mechanisms themselves.
Just to give you an idea, we have a legal decree. It’s our mother law on electronic communications. And in 2022, there was an increase of the regulatory competencies of the regulatory authority in terms of, say, network resilience.
But as for submarine cable, the responsibility for creating the rules, the adjustment, the installation of the… the management, installation and exploration, the responsibility for that is up to the government. Cabo Verde in 2019 joined the regulation on submarine cables and therefore we now have a cross -border cooperation framework for regulatory harmonization.
Recently, ARM also reinforced this approach through a market study decision, a market study we conducted in 2025, where we identified the operators with the significance of market power and we imposed some regulatory measures.
And in this decision, we underlined the importance of resilience. and redundancy and of the cooperation among submarine cable operators. And Cabo Verde operates, well, how does our framework work?
We have two main operators. One of them operates the submarine cable through a concession. They have a concession to explore the submarine cable service.
And this operator also participates in consortia which are responsible for this cable. And that’s why this framework of ours highlights the importance of having regulatory tools to fight against monopolist practices in order to ensure a level playing field and transparency between all the operators.
The market for the access to this… The landing station was subject to a market study, and we have some measures to implement in that market, given its critical nature and the international connectivity of the country. And I can say that it’s almost impossible to replicate this infrastructure because it would be highly expensive.
There’s a set of measures that we are implementing within this study to make sure that there is fair, transparent access, but also to ensure the alignment with the CDAO, ECOWAS regulation.
Actually, regulating water, electricity, and telecommunications is the right bucket to regulate data centers. Because we… We have always the problem of getting these three pillars…
managed together and that capacity is very, very interesting. I would return to Mr. Pong, keeping in mind that the idea that one’s neighbor can affect one’s own connectivity.
Singapore has played a leading role in promoting cable protection on regional bases in Southeast Asia, which is as well characterized by being in a very, very busy ocean area about vessels. Actually, if you didn’t fly in Singapore yet, please do, because it’s an ocean of vessels in the ocean. It’s absolutely impressive.
Could you describe the status of those efforts within ASEAN and other bodies and the biggest remaining challenges?
Well, as I mentioned, I mean, we… We have introduced and agreed upon a set of guidelines among ASEAN member states that we just rolled out. It includes a lot of best practices that we talked about at IAB as well.
So I think those are fully aligned. The next phase for us is clearly focused on implementation. Because it’s one thing to commit to something, but you need to see that through to implementation.
So I think Singapore is leaning forward, playing its part. So we are focusing on capacity building workshops for ASEAN member states to make sure that there is some sharing of experiences throughout so that ASEAN as a region can deliver on the enhanced guidelines as we’ve committed to.
So that hopefully will streamline processes for cable repairs, will provide ease and facilitate submarine cable operators to figure out which government agencies to look for across the different ASEAN member states.
So that’s the focus for us. Thank you.
Gustavo, ANATEL and the Brazilian Navy has actively engaged in strengthening submarine cable resilience. Are there plans to conduct stress tests or similar assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in submarine cable systems?
Yes, I think like you said in Singapore, we have been doing some exercises with other agencies of government, and especially with our Navy, because when you put together the experts of telecommunications and experts of the seas, you see bringing together knowledge, a shared knowledge that makes some sense of responsibility, shared responsibility, and the teams start to cooperate each other to bring better solutions.
So when we talk about shared knowledge, we are talking about knowing the characteristics of that infrastructure, that it’s critical infrastructure. And knowing about the characteristics of the frameworks, legal, regulatory procedures, you’re knowing… about the challenges, the limits that you face, you share solutions.
When you do these exercises, making some simulations of critical disrupts, you can think outside the line and making some discussions about how to improve and update our regulations. So I think that’s key and fundamental to understand the better approach to manage these submarine cables. So it’s very, very important to do that discussion and exercises.
Yes, we do fully agree. Actually, very recently we have conducted an exercise about cable security. It was very, very interesting.
It ended up with a lot of insights. Insights that are very important.
Philipp. The ITU facilitates engagement among regulators and between regulators and the industry. For instance, in events such as the Global Summit, our symposium for regulators, how much such engagement is actually being used to promote regulatory regimes and best practices that foster cable protection and resilience?
Thank you. I think one of the challenges everybody faces is if you’re a regulator, you often read other people’s regulations. You read them because what you’re trying always to do is find out what the best practice is.
And to a certain degree, you understand which regulators do which in which areas and who you should listen to. The problem, I find, is that people come up with solutions for their problems. And it’s a problem they had because of some reason, and they’ll write regulations around it.
People then often take that and implement it, and they have a fantastic solution for something that may not be their problem. So for me, one of the greatest challenges in anything to do with regulation is for regulators to talk to each other and actually understand why people are doing things. What was the philosophy and the methodology that the problem was that people brought the regulation in for?
And I think in the ITU, the sharing of that sort of knowledge and interaction enables them, people, to say, ah, I understand what they’ve got as a rule, but whilst it might be best practice, it might not be the right solution for me, but it gives me something to think about how I develop and do things here.
And I think in all of the things we do, it’s really important for us, to engage, to talk and understand. so that people genuinely understand problems and find solutions, as opposed to finding solution and then trying to find the problem it is the solution to. I think things like this event enable people to sit there and listen to what industry says.
Most of the times in regulation, we sit and listen to what industry says, but all they’re doing is lobbying you for a commercial position they want to take. Here, of course people are lobbying for positions, but actually they’re doing it in a slightly more global sense, so they’re not in the individual elements of which you’re trying to get to, and therefore you get to understand a bit more about what the real problems are, and then how you actually find the solutions to those.
So I think for me, engagement amongst regulators is important to understand what the issues are people have to fix and why the regulations came about. Engagement in a wider sense with industry tells you what the real problems are that you’re trying to fix, to make sure that people understand and to make sure that actually you have the solutions to the problems you have, both today and tomorrow, as opposed to just taking someone else’s regulation, imposing it, and finding out it doesn’t actually give you what you thought it was going to give.
Thank you. Johannes , how do the EU risk assessment and cable security toolbox fit with the work that we are doing here in IAB? Do they contradict?
Do they overlap? Do they complement? What do you think about it?
I think they’re actually very complementary to each other. It’s a matter of looking at the different layers. The EU actually contributed to the working groups, and I also can say we can congratulate really all ourselves on the outcome, because it’s very good work there, both on the declaration but also across the three working groups.
So I’m happy that it turned out like this and looking forward to continuing it together. Let me give you one very concrete example that comes out from these recommendations and was also mentioned yesterday and today. It’s the question of increased cooperation between countries.
Various entities, between industry and public sector. authorities but also between public authorities between regulators as Philip just said so there is a bit of room for improvement there to put it carefully and it was a key theme that came out already last October in our risk assessment that was one of the points just giving you this example but that was one of the points that that came out and naturally when we now look towards potential risk mitigating measures so the cable security toolbox a natural kind of point you would find there is how to address that know some ideas were mentioned coordinating entities one -stop shops accelerated permitting so it’s very concrete things that can be done and that we hope we can we can put forward in the end it’s also a question then how do the different layers work work together and also now I talked about more industry and and private but what is the role of the global level such as the ITU it’s precisely what has been done by the international advisory body coming up with higher level and private but what is the role of the global level such as the ITU it’s precisely what has been done by the international advisory body coming up with higher level and private but what is the that can be agreed by everyone and that can then be taken forward also in the more regional context.
In the EU of course we have a big let’s say regional not just policy but also hard legislation in place. We have something called the NIST 2 directive which governs critical infrastructure at large. We also have the critical entities resilience directive.
Those are just two examples which are really horizontal pieces of legislation. With the submarine cables policy that I mentioned it’s really the first kind of sector specific type of policy on submarine cables that we developed in the EU but it’s still rather soft and fits very well with the horizontal pieces of legislation.
So we try to focus on the substance more in a more let’s say agile and not direct legislatory way while at the same time being aware that there are rules in place and that can very well then be adapted or fit very well with what we’re doing.
And I think that’s really important. I think that fits very well also with what ASEAN is doing. Frankly, I think the summit you mentioned is a great success, taking it further.
And, of course, you don’t have legislation in place on a regional level, but it’s precisely then the next step. And then you have the national authorities where, again, there’s a lot of things that need to be done. But there is a lot about enforcement.
How are the rules really being put in practice? What are the challenges there and how can we improve them? And then the role of the industry, we have always exchanged with industry.
We’re very happy to also do so in the future because it gives us a lot of knowledge of how things work on the ground. What are the actual facts? Where do we need to look closer?
Are we on the wrong or the right track? So there are clear kind of roles in play, and it’s just a matter of bringing them better together in fora like these, but also in other groups of stakeholders. Once you have the right people, the right, let’s say, contacts, I don’t know if you’re going to be able to do that, but once you have the right people, once you have them identified, things get much easier and it gets easier to take.
take concrete projects off the ground. So there’s still some room for improvement, but we’re on the right track. And with that, also, thanks again for an opportunity like this.
I think it’s very important.
Thank you. Leonilde, how is Cabo Verde adapting licensing and regulatory processes to reduce potential barriers to timely deployment, the cable repair?
So in CapFair, resilience is strategic everywhere in the world. As I told you, in CapFair, even more, because we are an island country which depends on the very limited number of infrastructure, critical infrastructure, aiming to guarantee our connection with the world.
So whichever the interruption may be, Maybe it will have deep consequences. We’re not just talking about a break in terms of communication. Our economy slows down.
Public services suffer from that. And even national security is exposed, as is the well -being of our citizens. So Cape Verde has, in its strategic documents, its own positioning.
Even in its actions, it has positioned itself to consolidate its role as an Atlantic digital hub. From our geostrategic position, we are in the middle of the Atlantic. Our geographical location is privileged.
We have institutional stability. And international connectivity itself is growing. So digital transition, on the one hand, and energy transition in itself is considered strategic in the country, so submarine cables’ resilience is fundamental.
Broadband internet is also considered a fundamental good, an essential good, so the whole country is committed to digital development. Activities that, and here we’re talking about submarine cables, but there is a set of actions, measures that the country must implement, and we talked about that combination of these entities, but it starts internally.
We have to have that in terms of operators and regulators and citizens themselves. They will be using that infrastructure itself. There’s a program about digital literacy.
We must involve our communities, the schools and universities, and we must have a system that is inclusive. and not just think or implement individual measures. So, yes, regulatory streamlining will clearly facilitate cross -border cooperation, but as regulators, we have a fundamental role regarding possibility, prevention and the response itself.
As regulators, we are taking on a role of alignment with the non -discrimination, transparency, open access principles with some specific measures regarding the obligations of the operator with a significant market power, urgent measures to repair brakes, namely reducing gross prices, reduction of internet circuit prices, all of these measures aimed to establish competitional conditions.
But we are also working, as I said, in 2022. We added competencies to the regulator. We are apparently preparing a regulation for reporting of incidents and network safety and security with a critical component of submarine cables protection.
So we are at the right place today. That integration allows us to draw information from all experiences of the countries included, as our colleague told us here. It happened in that country, but we can use it to foresee some mistakes that we can avoid, committee.
It also helps us see whether those best practices fit our practices. So by working on that regulation, we’ll consider good international recommendations, but they must fit our reality. Within the scope of our risk management and emergency, we are preparing our national emergency plan for telecom.
We received support from the ITU. It’s already under public consultation. We are also…
Cape Verde has joined the initiative of the UN and W4. Also, we have all national conditions established to be able also to approach resilience. Trabalhada.
we are working with the operators this is an event in which submarine cables managers should be here we will do that alignment nationally we will promote a more active participation of operators in such discussion fora and to conclude yes, we are working at national level but we already have at international level as you mentioned here also the mutual help between regulators Cape Verde is currently presiding the association of regulators of Portuguese speaking countries so we have the possibility of discussing that topic as regulators to streamline and align our position but considering submarine cables we came here to listen to best practices and so we are doing thank you
I would have here a ton of questions, but unfortunately we have to make our calendar resilient as well, and therefore I will post a fast, the question is not fast, it’s short, but I would ask you for a fast and short answer as well, and it’s a common question to all our panel members.
By this year, what do you consider to be the major legal challenge to strengthen the global submarine cable resilience? I would start on the far end.
Okay, sure, thank you. I’ll cheat a bit, right? I’ll keep it short, but I’ll cheat a bit.
I’ll give two challenges, and they’re not legal in nature. The first, I think, is that the average time to repair cables has gone up. I think the stats are quite clear.
I do think that it is timely for all of us to look at all the cases for these. and ask ourselves what is the cause of the delay and figure out practical ways to resolve them. I think secondly, I think it’s about repair capacity because the number of submarine cables, as we’ve heard, is growing.
We’ve got to look at where these increases are and ask ourselves, is there sufficient repair capacity to handle the repairs that will surely be needed? Because all things being equal, the number of repairs that are needed will go up. And I’m not sure we have actually looked at that yet.
I’m not necessarily sure that left to the market, it will resolve by itself.
Okay. I think that this moment that we are facing about approving new recommendations of this body, it starts a new opportunity to each country makes his own reflections about this legal and regulatory framework.
And so in Brazil now, we are talking about it. We’ve been… Consultation.
to the society, and I think it’s a great opportunity to do that. But I’d just like to add that I think that we haven’t done yet all the work that we need to do here because, yes, we did a great job doing the recommendations and we published it, but we should now start a campaign of publishing it more with the best we can so it can be reached to all the countries.
But also we should do regional forums to debate these kind of recommendations because, just one example, I am the one member, the only one member for the South America country. So I think that publishing it. It’s a way to get her, but making regional forums.
make it more easier to make a comprehensive debate about that, seeing the regional threats, the regional situations, to develop a better understanding about the recommendations and implementing these recommendations.
So my suggestion is that we should discuss about not closing this work and go further to publish and better doing these regional forums from the bit.
I’m trying not to repeat anything anyone else has said. Turn recommendations into real actions because they don’t work unless we do something about them. Regulations only work when people take action when people breach them.
So. Take action and listening to what people said earlier today, make sure. ensure people have better mapping so people know where cables are and it would seem we should discourage people fishing where there are cables.
Well let me tell you that saying that in a country like Portugal where we have probably one of the highest rate of people eating fish is problematic. We can come back to that later on.
The more we move up in the panel the more it becomes difficult to find new innovative things so I’m not going to even try. The most difficult challenge is really to putting it all on the street or better said under the sea because we have a lot of nice recommendations now a lot of things put on paper and a common situational awareness picture which I feel does not really shift anymore to one big end or another.
There are the same types of issues popping up over and over again. over again, and it’s good to have this at a global level, but also at regional and national levels. Now the challenge is to move from there and really make sure that some of these things actually see the light of day and get implemented in practice.
Cabo Verde has the best tuna in the world, just so you know, so we have the biggest and best tuna in the world. So I would consider the physical protection and integrated cyber security with the growing digitalization. We have face the risk of exposing cables to cyber attacks, the streamlining of instruments.
For the case of Cape Verde, it’s a bit bigger. We have to combine the national and internal regulations. We have to combine the national and internal regulations and must also…
guarantee the alignment between those components, followed by its use in practice. It’s more than regulatory. I think it’s about governance.
Just to add two cents to the conversation, I would say that the time is to acting not as producing more acts, but putting in practice the ones that we already have, and that’s urges to address what we all want to achieve.
Well, I will give now the opportunity to our audience to address and even get some revenge on our panelists with a couple of questions. We have about… Five to ten minutes, so please, any questions?
We have a mic traveling.
Thank you. Thank you very much. I am Neşet Dejdedi from Turkey, Information and Communications Authority.
Do you think that… My question is to the panel so anyone can answer. Do you think that a dedicated knowledge platform may be within I2 is needed?
This will cover regulations, rules, cases, updates, solutions, practices in I2 member countries. As you know, regulatory frameworks… …differ widely between countries.
And as I know, there is no centralized place to track them. Also, this hub could serve… researchers, policymakers and regulators.
Thank you.
Someone wants to take a question about central data.
I believe what we can do here in terms of, for example, IoT is check with the organizations how we can streamline things because the rules are global but they may not adapt to the different realities. For example, we have Arctel and other associations that could have a specific group also to debate those matters. I believe we need to master very well the global guidelines so that we can afterwards define how we can bring them into our legal framework and our specific reality.
Very well. Any other questions? The gentleman there.
I have a question to Gustavo. My business is not telecommunications and not submarine cables. My business is software development.
I’m doing maritime domain awareness systems that survey the sea. So what’s going on at sea level. That’s what I do.
And I found quite interesting your intervention about bringing the guys of telecommunications and maritime guys together just to discuss the threats. In sea. My question is…
there is in any way in Brazil an activity of controlling and survey all the sea under your responsibility so you can know what’s going on at sea level that arms under the sea and the cables so you can just do some action about it.
And a second question related to this, this surveillance activity every day, it is for you a military responsibility or a civil responsibility?
Okay, thank you for this question. Yes, we do have, I see that the Navy has this monitoring system in some parts of the country and so, but the companies, they have too. The owners of the…
The cables, they have contracts and they monitor these submarines, the activities on the water level and they do contract these kind of services as well. and so you have both contracting this kind of services
Okay, we have time for one more question.
into the several continents and excluding Europe because it’s a different legal framework. But if we talk about Africa, where we have several subcontinental communities with different legal frameworks and all the legal fragmentation also within several frameworks, and we also have that in Asia, we also have that in the Americas.
So, my question is, can we really have or will be near a unified solution to solve these questions around the protection and resilience of the submarine infrastructure? Is it an attainable, realistic, smart objective? I’m so glad I’m not a panelist.
So which one of you will…
I’m so glad I’m not a panelist. So which one of you will…
So I mentioned fishing. which only because I listened to the rest of the debate that went on. I think, is there likely to ever be a unified regulatory framework?
In some areas of the ITU’s work and some areas of regulation, there is a unified framework. And sometimes a unified framework is very, very helpful, sometimes a bit of a hindrance. But in reality, you’ve got to ask yourself, it’s mostly been aimed at the telecommunications sector itself to enable it to understand what it’s doing, its stuff.
It’s not pan -sector to tell everybody else what to do. And I think that is our biggest challenge. And as I said in our case, we are very clear about where our corridors are for submarine cables.
And we need to make sure they’re there because there is so much other activity that takes place, whether it’s building, whether it’s extraction, whether it’s oil, whether it’s gas, that you need to understand where they are to enable you to put rules.
And I think that goes around that area. to enable those areas to be protected in the sense of both our national waters and our economic zones. And I think you can do that sort of thing, but it’s very nationalistic because it’s your own laws and your own ability to enforce, where some of the stuff we’ve talked about in regulations, I think it’s very easy to say, here is the right answer.
So how do I apply that to the fishing industry? How do I apply it here? And I think that becomes a challenge that we could talk forever about and always just talk.
It’s also important to not perhaps to aim too high, but start rather with smaller steps that lead into the right direction. So like the saying, yeah, you can reach for the stars to get to the moon. That’s really where you have to start.
From our experience, to give you a concrete example, we didn’t… We did not want to kind of completely redesign and re -regulate… the whole submarine cable space.
First step was really finding out who are the relevant people to talk to. For example, on a regional level, in an EU context, that was really in the member states, that authorities that actually deal with submarine cables. Already there was the challenge that actually in one country there are several authorities that deal with submarine cables, but it had a good effect because then those authorities also started talking to each other.
They started coordinating better with each other and with us, and that already helped us to get a bit of a more coherent picture of what is happening on the ground. And we can build on that. It’s a good basis, and sometimes the first step is really to see who are the right people to talk to and then take it from there.
Like I mentioned before, in the coming days, we’re now putting out an agreed framework for funding priorities. If we had started with that two, three years ago, we probably would have never managed. So it’s really sometimes the smaller steps that get you there.
If I can jump in. Yes. I have to say I’m not the biggest fan of harmonized legal frameworks, just because I think it’s hard, as Philip says, to have a single framework that’s applicable in different contexts, different national contexts.
I think it is clear that it is in every country’s interest to make sure the submarine cables work well, function well, and they’re repaired quickly. And therefore, I start off on the basis that because there is common interest in this, it is better to focus on working on practical solutions. Because often, when you start working on harmonized legal frameworks, they normally take a very, very long time, as all of us know.
So I normally like to start off with practical solutions, figure out what the problems are, and then work as a grouping, particularly on regional groupings, where the number of members is more controlled.
It’s easier to build a consensus around that and to get moving.
Well, may I? I agree with you. both with those but there are some recommendations that we should use in a common way as we did a framework that’s useful to all the countries so making a single point of contact it’s a it works it fits in all the countries I think and that there’s a lot of recommendations that fits all the the countries and situations so just just doing this perspective in line with what I already shared I believe I believe we already have the main principles now we have to consider by country by region this internal and regional and regional and regional and regional and regional and regional and national and later regional stream whining and harmonization so that we can later aim at a global one.
But we have to take this step by step. I believe you are very right. The issue of sharing is fundamental, knowing what others are doing and then combining these best practices.
I’m not sure if it’s going to be with the best in the world from Cabo Verde, but I’m sure it will be a very nice meal prepared by our hosting team. I would end up just thanking Pong, Gustavo, Philip, Johannes, and Leonilde for this incredible panel. Very insightful.
We take a lot from here for sure. I would ask you for a big round of applause to them. Thank you all.
Ng Cher Pong
Speech speed
171 words per minute
Speech length
1079 words
Speech time
377 seconds
Singapore’s single window approach coordinates across government agencies to protect cables in territorial waters and secure landing sites
Explanation
Singapore implemented a one-stop shop approach born out of necessity due to having 32 cables landing in the country with plans for 20 more over the next 10 years. This coordinated approach involves working with land use authorities, Maritime Port Authority, and other agencies to create protected corridors and secure landing sites.
Evidence
Singapore currently has 32 cables landing with ambitions for another 20 over the next 10 years. The digital economy forms 18% of Singapore’s GDP. They work with Maritime Port Authority to create protected corridors where ships cannot park or anchor, and require operators to bury cables 4-12 meters deep in territorial waters. As a result, they have no cable cuts in their territorial waters.
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Gustavo Borges
– Philip Marnick
– Leonilde Tatiana
Agreed on
Cross-sector coordination and single-window approaches improve submarine cable protection
ASEAN launched Enhanced Guidelines on Strengthening Repair and Resilience of Submarine Cables with commitments to streamline approval processes
Explanation
Singapore chairs a working group on submarine cables in ASEAN and helped develop enhanced guidelines that were endorsed by ASEAN Digital Ministers. The guidelines include commitments to work towards best practices in line with IAB recommendations, including streamlining approval processes to 7-10 working days and establishing single points of contact across member states.
Evidence
The Enhanced ASEAN Guidelines on Strengthening the Repair and Resilience of Submarine Cables were endorsed by ASEAN Digital Ministers. Guidelines include reference to giving approval for submarine cables within seven to ten working days and establishing a single point of contact across all ASEAN member states.
Major discussion point
Regional Cooperation and Standardization
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Gustavo Borges
– Johannes Theiss
– Leonilde Tatiana
Agreed on
Regional cooperation and coordination are essential for submarine cable protection
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Explanation
Ng Cher Pong identified two major challenges: the average time to repair cables has gone up according to statistics, and there may be insufficient repair capacity to handle the growing number of submarine cables. He suggests that as cable numbers increase, the number of needed repairs will also increase, but the market may not resolve capacity issues by itself.
Evidence
Statistics show that average cable repair times have increased. The number of submarine cables is growing, which means the number of repairs needed will also go up proportionally.
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Implementation of existing recommendations is more important than creating new regulatory frameworks
Disagreed with
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
Disagreed on
Priority focus for implementation strategies
Gustavo Borges
Speech speed
115 words per minute
Speech length
1098 words
Speech time
572 seconds
Brazil successfully prevented a desalination project from endangering submarine cable infrastructure in Fortaleza through regulatory intervention
Explanation
ANATEL faced a situation where the local government planned a popular desalination project near submarine cable landing areas in Ceará state. Despite the project’s popularity and political importance, ANATEL successfully argued against the location and eventually convinced the local government to move the project to another location to protect the critical cable infrastructure.
Evidence
The desalination project was planned in Ceará state in northeast Brazil where most submarine cables land. The project was popular because it would bring potable water to a region suffering from dry weather conditions. After months of discussion, media coverage, and formal opposition from ANATEL with support from ICPC and industry companies, the local government decided to move the project to another location.
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
Explanation
Gustavo Borges argued that while global recommendations are valuable, there’s a need for regional forums to discuss and adapt these recommendations to regional contexts. He noted that he is the only South American member and suggested that regional forums would facilitate better understanding and implementation of recommendations by addressing regional threats and situations.
Evidence
Gustavo mentioned being the only member from a South American country in the advisory body. He suggested that regional forums would make it easier to have comprehensive debates about recommendations while considering regional threats and situations.
Major discussion point
Regional Cooperation and Standardization
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Johannes Theiss
– Leonilde Tatiana
Agreed on
Regional cooperation and coordination are essential for submarine cable protection
Disagreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Johannes Theiss
Disagreed on
Priority focus for implementation strategies
Coordination exercises between telecommunications experts and naval authorities improve shared knowledge and responsibility
Explanation
Brazil conducts exercises with government agencies, especially the Navy, bringing together telecommunications and maritime expertise. These exercises create shared knowledge about critical infrastructure characteristics, regulatory frameworks, and challenges, leading to better solutions and improved regulations through simulation of critical disruptions.
Evidence
Brazil has been conducting exercises with other government agencies, particularly the Navy. These exercises involve simulations of critical disrupts and discussions about improving and updating regulations. A recent cable security exercise provided valuable insights.
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | Capacity development
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Leonilde Tatiana
Agreed on
Cross-sector coordination and single-window approaches improve submarine cable protection
Philip Marnick
Speech speed
175 words per minute
Speech length
1508 words
Speech time
516 seconds
Bahrain classified submarine cables as critical infrastructure and implemented comprehensive planning for cable corridors and landing sites
Explanation
As an island nation in the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain has implemented comprehensive planning for submarine cable infrastructure including mapping systems, protected corridors, and coordination with various agencies. They also face unique challenges such as expanding land mass through building new islands and busy shipping routes, requiring long-term planning for cable placement.
Evidence
Bahrain is an island nation with phenomenal digital infrastructure and a massive digital economy. They face challenges from regional tensions affecting routes through the Red Sea, busy Gulf shipping, shallow waters, sand extraction from the sea, and continuously expanding land mass through building new islands. They work with Coast Guard and other agencies to prevent anchoring in cable areas and maintain solid mapping systems.
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Leonilde Tatiana
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Submarine cables should be classified and treated as critical infrastructure
Regulators need to understand the philosophy behind other countries’ regulations rather than simply copying solutions
Explanation
Philip Marnick argued that regulators often read other countries’ regulations and implement them without understanding the specific problems they were designed to solve. He emphasized the importance of understanding why regulations were created and what problems they addressed, rather than just copying best practices that may not fit different contexts.
Evidence
He noted that people often create solutions for their specific problems, but others may implement these solutions for problems they don’t actually have. ITU events help regulators understand the real problems behind regulations rather than just commercial lobbying positions.
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Implementation of existing recommendations is more important than creating new regulatory frameworks
Johannes Theiss
Speech speed
185 words per minute
Speech length
1908 words
Speech time
615 seconds
The EU developed recommendations and action plans for secure infrastructure with risk assessments and cable security toolboxes
Explanation
The European Commission released recommendations in February 2024 followed by an EU plan for cable security in 2025. These initiatives include four key deliverables: mapping of infrastructure, EU-coordinated risk assessment, cable security toolbox of mitigating measures, and identification of priority areas for public funding.
Evidence
The recommendation led to creation of an expert group with Commission, EU member states, and European Cyber Security Agency. Two deliverables were completed in October with a comprehensive report covering mapping and risk assessment. The EU put out 10 million euros for stress tests and another 10 million for regional cable hubs in the Baltic.
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Gustavo Borges
– Leonilde Tatiana
Agreed on
Regional cooperation and coordination are essential for submarine cable protection
The EU allocated hundreds of millions of euros for submarine cable projects to support profitability gaps and emergency repair capacity
Explanation
The European Commission is providing substantial financial support for submarine cable projects, with several hundred million euros planned to help projects overcome profitability gaps. They are also planning calls focusing on repair capacity while being careful not to disturb the private market, aiming only to create additional security layers for emergency scenarios.
Evidence
Several hundred million euros are coming on stream for the sector. The first call will focus on repair capacity, specifically for emergency scenarios to avoid disturbing the private market. 10 million euros were allocated for stress tests and 10 million for regional cable hubs.
Major discussion point
Funding and Economic Considerations
Topics
Financial mechanisms | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
Explanation
Johannes Theiss emphasized that while there are many good recommendations and papers with common situational awareness, the main challenge is implementing these recommendations in practice. He noted that the same types of issues keep appearing repeatedly, and the focus should shift from creating more recommendations to actually implementing existing ones.
Evidence
He mentioned having a lot of nice recommendations and things put on paper with common situational awareness, but noted that the same types of issues keep popping up over and over again at global, regional, and national levels.
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Gustavo Borges
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Implementation of existing recommendations is more important than creating new regulatory frameworks
Disagreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Gustavo Borges
Disagreed on
Priority focus for implementation strategies
Leonilde Tatiana
Speech speed
99 words per minute
Speech length
1468 words
Speech time
884 seconds
Cape Verde is strengthening its legal framework and developing incident reporting regulations for network safety and security
Explanation
Cape Verde’s multisectoral regulatory agency ARM is working to strengthen legal frameworks and oversight mechanisms for submarine cables. In 2022, the regulator’s competencies were expanded regarding network resilience, and they are currently preparing regulations for incident reporting and network safety with a critical component for submarine cable protection.
Evidence
In 2022, there was an expansion of regulatory competencies regarding network resilience. ARM is preparing a regulation for reporting incidents and network safety and security with a critical component of submarine cables protection. They conducted a market study in 2025 identifying operators with significant market power and imposed regulatory measures emphasizing resilience and redundancy.
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Gustavo Borges
– Philip Marnick
Agreed on
Cross-sector coordination and single-window approaches improve submarine cable protection
Cape Verde positions itself as an Atlantic digital hub leveraging its geostrategic location and institutional stability
Explanation
Cape Verde has positioned itself to consolidate its role as an Atlantic digital hub based on its privileged geographical location in the middle of the Atlantic, institutional stability, and growing international connectivity. The country considers digital and energy transition as strategic priorities, with broadband internet treated as an essential good.
Evidence
Cape Verde has three submarine cables including the recent Axe-Ella Link cable. The country has 11 fiber optic segments interconnecting all inhabited islands in a ring configuration for redundancy. Cape Verde has joined the UN and W4 initiative and is working on a national emergency plan for telecommunications with ITU support.
Major discussion point
Funding and Economic Considerations
Topics
Information and communication technologies for development | The digital economy
Cape Verde faces unique challenges as an island nation requiring integrated governance combining national and international regulations
Explanation
As an island country dependent on limited critical infrastructure, Cape Verde faces particular challenges where any interruption has deep consequences for the economy, public services, and national security. The country requires integrated governance that combines national regulations with international frameworks and involves multiple stakeholders including operators, regulators, and citizens.
Evidence
Cape Verde is 10 islands with international connectivity relying almost entirely on submarine cable infrastructure. Any interruption affects the economy, public services, and national security. The country has a program for digital literacy involving communities, schools, and universities. Cape Verde presides over the association of regulators of Portuguese-speaking countries.
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Philip Marnick
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Submarine cables should be classified and treated as critical infrastructure
Augusto Fragoso
Speech speed
108 words per minute
Speech length
1164 words
Speech time
643 seconds
Submarine cables are critical infrastructure that prevent countries from becoming isolated islands in the digital world
Explanation
Augusto Fragoso opened the panel by emphasizing that while no man is an island, without submarine cables, every country and continent becomes effectively isolated. He described the panelists as architects of legal frameworks that keep underwater cables functioning properly.
Evidence
He used the metaphor that panelists are ‘architects of the legal life jackets that keep the underwater cables afloat’
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Philip Marnick
– Leonilde Tatiana
Agreed on
Submarine cables should be classified and treated as critical infrastructure
Cross-risk between submarine cables and other infrastructure projects is a growing global problem
Explanation
Augusto noted that the conflict between submarine cable landing areas and other development projects is becoming increasingly common worldwide. He cited examples from Brazil’s desalination project and Portugal’s offshore windmill developments as illustrations of this challenge.
Evidence
He mentioned Portugal’s challenges with offshore windmills and how these projects need to coexist with submarine cable infrastructure
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
The focus should be on implementing existing recommendations rather than creating more regulatory frameworks
Explanation
In his closing remarks, Augusto emphasized that the time has come for action rather than producing more acts or regulations. He stressed the urgency of putting existing frameworks into practice to achieve desired outcomes.
Evidence
He stated ‘the time is to acting not as producing more acts, but putting in practice the ones that we already have’
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
Agreed on
Implementation of existing recommendations is more important than creating new regulatory frameworks
Audience Member
Speech speed
101 words per minute
Speech length
326 words
Speech time
192 seconds
A dedicated knowledge platform within ITU is needed to centralize submarine cable regulations and best practices
Explanation
An audience member from Turkey’s Information and Communications Authority proposed creating a centralized knowledge hub within ITU that would cover regulations, rules, cases, updates, solutions, and practices across ITU member countries. This platform would serve researchers, policymakers, and regulators by addressing the current lack of a centralized place to track diverse regulatory frameworks.
Evidence
The speaker noted that regulatory frameworks differ widely between countries and there is currently no centralized place to track them
Major discussion point
Regional Cooperation and Standardization
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Maritime domain awareness systems should be integrated with submarine cable protection efforts
Explanation
An audience member working in software development for maritime domain awareness systems questioned whether Brazil has surveillance activities to monitor sea-level activities that could threaten submarine cables. They also asked whether such surveillance should be a military or civil responsibility.
Evidence
The speaker mentioned developing maritime domain awareness systems that survey what’s happening at sea level
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Legal fragmentation across different continental frameworks makes unified submarine cable protection solutions challenging
Explanation
An audience member questioned whether a unified solution for submarine cable protection and resilience is realistic given the legal fragmentation across different continents and subcontinental communities. They noted that Africa, Asia, and the Americas all have different legal frameworks and asked if unified solutions are attainable.
Evidence
The speaker specifically mentioned Africa’s several subcontinental communities with different legal frameworks, and similar fragmentation in Asia and the Americas
Major discussion point
Regional Cooperation and Standardization
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Moderator
Speech speed
94 words per minute
Speech length
84 words
Speech time
53 seconds
Submarine cables are critical infrastructure that prevent countries from becoming isolated islands in the digital world
Explanation
The moderator (Augusto Fragoso) opened the panel by emphasizing that while no man is an island, without submarine cables, every country and continent becomes effectively isolated. He described the panelists as architects of legal frameworks that keep underwater cables functioning properly.
Evidence
He used the metaphor that panelists are ‘architects of the legal life jackets that keep the underwater cables afloat’
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Agreed with
– Philip Marnick
– Leonilde Tatiana
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Submarine cables should be classified and treated as critical infrastructure
Cross-risk between submarine cables and other infrastructure projects is a growing global problem
Explanation
The moderator noted that the conflict between submarine cable landing areas and other development projects is becoming increasingly common worldwide. He cited examples from Brazil’s desalination project and Portugal’s offshore windmill developments as illustrations of this challenge.
Evidence
He mentioned Portugal’s challenges with offshore windmills and how these projects need to coexist with submarine cable infrastructure
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
The focus should be on implementing existing recommendations rather than creating more regulatory frameworks
Explanation
In his closing remarks, the moderator emphasized that the time has come for action rather than producing more acts or regulations. He stressed the urgency of putting existing frameworks into practice to achieve desired outcomes.
Evidence
He stated ‘the time is to acting not as producing more acts, but putting in practice the ones that we already have’
Major discussion point
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Agreed with
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
– Augusto Fragoso
Agreed on
Implementation of existing recommendations is more important than creating new regulatory frameworks
Regulating water, electricity, and telecommunications together provides the right framework for data center regulation
Explanation
The moderator observed that Cape Verde’s multisectoral regulatory approach, which combines water, electricity, and telecommunications regulation, creates an ideal framework for managing data centers. He noted this addresses the common challenge of coordinating these three essential pillars for data center operations.
Evidence
He commented on Cape Verde’s ARM agency regulating all three sectors and noted ‘that capacity is very, very interesting’ for data center regulation
Major discussion point
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Agreements
Agreement points
Implementation of existing recommendations is more important than creating new regulatory frameworks
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
– Augusto Fragoso
Arguments
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Regulators need to understand the philosophy behind other countries’ regulations rather than simply copying solutions
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
The focus should be on implementing existing recommendations rather than creating more regulatory frameworks
Summary
All speakers emphasized that the priority should be on implementing existing recommendations and taking concrete actions rather than developing more regulatory frameworks. They agreed that practical solutions and real-world implementation are needed.
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Regional cooperation and coordination are essential for submarine cable protection
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Gustavo Borges
– Johannes Theiss
– Leonilde Tatiana
Arguments
ASEAN launched Enhanced Guidelines on Strengthening Repair and Resilience of Submarine Cables with commitments to streamline approval processes
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
The EU developed recommendations and action plans for secure infrastructure with risk assessments and cable security toolboxes
Cape Verde faces unique challenges as an island nation requiring integrated governance combining national and international regulations
Summary
Speakers agreed that regional approaches are crucial for effective submarine cable protection, with examples from ASEAN, EU, and calls for South American regional forums demonstrating the value of coordinated regional strategies.
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Cross-sector coordination and single-window approaches improve submarine cable protection
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Gustavo Borges
– Philip Marnick
– Leonilde Tatiana
Arguments
Singapore’s single window approach coordinates across government agencies to protect cables in territorial waters and secure landing sites
Coordination exercises between telecommunications experts and naval authorities improve shared knowledge and responsibility
Bahrain classified submarine cables as critical infrastructure and implemented comprehensive planning for cable corridors and landing sites
Cape Verde is strengthening its legal framework and developing incident reporting regulations for network safety and security
Summary
All speakers agreed that coordinating across multiple government agencies and sectors is essential for effective submarine cable protection, with examples of successful single-window approaches and cross-sector collaboration.
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Submarine cables should be classified and treated as critical infrastructure
Speakers
– Philip Marnick
– Leonilde Tatiana
– Augusto Fragoso
Arguments
Bahrain classified submarine cables as critical infrastructure and implemented comprehensive planning for cable corridors and landing sites
Cape Verde faces unique challenges as an island nation requiring integrated governance combining national and international regulations
Submarine cables are critical infrastructure that prevent countries from becoming isolated islands in the digital world
Summary
Speakers agreed that submarine cables constitute critical infrastructure requiring special protection and regulatory treatment, particularly for island nations that depend heavily on these connections.
Topics
Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs | The enabling environment for digital development
Similar viewpoints
These speakers shared skepticism about one-size-fits-all regulatory solutions and emphasized the need for practical, context-specific approaches rather than simply copying other countries’ frameworks
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
Arguments
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Regulators need to understand the philosophy behind other countries’ regulations rather than simply copying solutions
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Both speakers from developing countries emphasized the need for regional approaches that can adapt global recommendations to local contexts and challenges
Speakers
– Gustavo Borges
– Leonilde Tatiana
Arguments
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
Cape Verde faces unique challenges as an island nation requiring integrated governance combining national and international regulations
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Both emphasized the importance of moving beyond policy development to concrete implementation, with financial support being a key enabler
Speakers
– Johannes Theiss
– Augusto Fragoso
Arguments
The EU allocated hundreds of millions of euros for submarine cable projects to support profitability gaps and emergency repair capacity
The focus should be on implementing existing recommendations rather than creating more regulatory frameworks
Topics
Financial mechanisms | The enabling environment for digital development
Unexpected consensus
Preference for practical solutions over harmonized legal frameworks
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
Arguments
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Regulators need to understand the philosophy behind other countries’ regulations rather than simply copying solutions
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
Explanation
It was unexpected that regulators from different regions (Singapore, Bahrain, EU) all expressed skepticism about unified regulatory frameworks, instead favoring practical, context-specific solutions. This consensus suggests a mature understanding that regulatory approaches must be tailored to local conditions.
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Strong support for public funding of submarine cable infrastructure
Speakers
– Johannes Theiss
– Leonilde Tatiana
Arguments
The EU allocated hundreds of millions of euros for submarine cable projects to support profitability gaps and emergency repair capacity
Cape Verde positions itself as an Atlantic digital hub leveraging its geostrategic location and institutional stability
Explanation
The consensus on public funding for submarine cables was unexpected given traditional market-based approaches to telecommunications infrastructure. Both EU and Cape Verde representatives supported government investment, suggesting a shift toward treating submarine cables as public goods requiring state support.
Topics
Financial mechanisms | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Overall assessment
Summary
The speakers demonstrated strong consensus on the need for practical implementation over regulatory development, regional cooperation approaches, cross-sector coordination, and treating submarine cables as critical infrastructure. There was unexpected agreement on avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions and supporting public funding for cable infrastructure.
Consensus level
High level of consensus with significant implications for submarine cable governance. The agreement suggests a mature understanding of the challenges and a shift toward pragmatic, implementation-focused approaches rather than purely regulatory solutions. This consensus could facilitate better international cooperation and more effective protection of submarine cable infrastructure globally.
Differences
Different viewpoints
Approach to achieving unified regulatory frameworks
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
Arguments
I have to say I’m not the biggest fan of harmonized legal frameworks, just because I think it’s hard, as Philip says, to have a single framework that’s applicable in different contexts, different national contexts
Is there likely to ever be a unified regulatory framework? In some areas of the ITU’s work and some areas of regulation, there is a unified framework. And sometimes a unified framework is very, very helpful, sometimes a bit of a hindrance
It’s also important to not perhaps to aim too high, but start rather with smaller steps that lead into the right direction
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
Summary
Speakers disagreed on the feasibility and desirability of unified regulatory frameworks. Ng Cher Pong was explicitly against harmonized legal frameworks, preferring practical solutions. Philip Marnick acknowledged that unified frameworks can be both helpful and hindering. Johannes Theiss advocated for incremental steps rather than comprehensive harmonization. Gustavo Borges supported regional approaches as stepping stones.
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Regional Cooperation and Standardization
Priority focus for implementation strategies
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
Arguments
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
Summary
While all speakers agreed on the need for better implementation, they emphasized different priorities. Ng Cher Pong focused on specific technical challenges like repair times and capacity. Johannes Theiss emphasized the general challenge of moving from recommendations to action. Gustavo Borges prioritized regional forums and capacity building as the key implementation strategy.
Topics
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions | Capacity development
Unexpected differences
Role of public funding in submarine cable infrastructure
Speakers
– Johannes Theiss
– Ng Cher Pong
Arguments
The EU allocated hundreds of millions of euros for submarine cable projects to support profitability gaps and emergency repair capacity
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Explanation
While both speakers identified repair capacity as a challenge, Johannes Theiss advocated for substantial public funding (hundreds of millions of euros) to address gaps, while Ng Cher Pong questioned whether the market would resolve capacity issues by itself but did not explicitly endorse public funding solutions. This represents an unexpected disagreement on the role of government intervention versus market solutions.
Topics
Financial mechanisms | Building confidence and security in the use of ICTs
Scope of regulatory authority for submarine cables
Speakers
– Leonilde Tatiana
– Gustavo Borges
Arguments
Cape Verde faces unique challenges as an island nation requiring integrated governance combining national and international regulations
Brazil successfully prevented a desalination project from endangering submarine cable infrastructure in Fortaleza through regulatory intervention
Explanation
Both speakers represented developing countries but showed different approaches to regulatory scope. Cape Verde’s approach emphasized multisectoral integration (water, electricity, telecommunications), while Brazil’s approach focused on telecommunications regulatory authority intervening in other sectors’ projects. This unexpected difference shows varying models for regulatory integration in similar contexts.
Topics
Submarine Cable Protection and Regulatory Frameworks | The enabling environment for digital development
Overall assessment
Summary
The main areas of disagreement centered on implementation approaches rather than fundamental goals. Speakers disagreed on whether to pursue unified regulatory frameworks versus practical regional solutions, the role of public funding versus market mechanisms, and the optimal scope of regulatory authority.
Disagreement level
The level of disagreement was moderate and constructive. Speakers shared common goals of protecting submarine cable infrastructure and improving resilience, but differed on methods and priorities. These disagreements reflect different national contexts, regulatory philosophies, and resource constraints rather than fundamental conflicts. The implications suggest that while global coordination is possible, implementation strategies will likely remain diverse and context-specific, requiring flexible frameworks that accommodate different approaches while maintaining interoperability and cooperation.
Partial agreements
Partial agreements
All speakers agreed that implementation of existing frameworks is more important than creating new ones, but they disagreed on the best approach. Some favored practical solutions over legal harmonization, others emphasized understanding context before copying regulations, some preferred incremental steps, and others advocated for regional forums as the primary mechanism.
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
– Gustavo Borges
Arguments
I normally like to start off with practical solutions, figure out what the problems are, and then work as a grouping, particularly on regional groupings
Regulators need to understand the philosophy behind other countries’ regulations rather than simply copying solutions
It’s also important to not perhaps to aim too high, but start rather with smaller steps that lead into the right direction
I believe we already have the main principles now we have to consider by country by region this internal and regional and regional and regional and regional and regional and regional and national and later regional stream whining and harmonization so that we can later aim at a global one
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions
Both speakers agreed that the focus should shift from creating recommendations to implementing them, but they approached this from different perspectives – Johannes from the EU policy development standpoint and Augusto from the moderator’s synthesis of the discussion.
Speakers
– Johannes Theiss
– Augusto Fragoso
Arguments
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
The focus should be on implementing existing recommendations rather than creating more regulatory frameworks
Topics
Implementation Challenges and Practical Solutions | The enabling environment for digital development
Similar viewpoints
These speakers shared skepticism about one-size-fits-all regulatory solutions and emphasized the need for practical, context-specific approaches rather than simply copying other countries’ frameworks
Speakers
– Ng Cher Pong
– Philip Marnick
– Johannes Theiss
Arguments
Average cable repair times have increased and repair capacity may be insufficient for growing cable numbers
Regulators need to understand the philosophy behind other countries’ regulations rather than simply copying solutions
Moving from recommendations to concrete actions is the most difficult challenge requiring practical implementation
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Both speakers from developing countries emphasized the need for regional approaches that can adapt global recommendations to local contexts and challenges
Speakers
– Gustavo Borges
– Leonilde Tatiana
Arguments
Brazil advocates for regional forums to debate recommendations and better implement global guidelines at regional levels
Cape Verde faces unique challenges as an island nation requiring integrated governance combining national and international regulations
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Capacity development
Both emphasized the importance of moving beyond policy development to concrete implementation, with financial support being a key enabler
Speakers
– Johannes Theiss
– Augusto Fragoso
Arguments
The EU allocated hundreds of millions of euros for submarine cable projects to support profitability gaps and emergency repair capacity
The focus should be on implementing existing recommendations rather than creating more regulatory frameworks
Topics
Financial mechanisms | The enabling environment for digital development
Takeaways
Key takeaways
Submarine cable protection requires coordinated approaches across multiple government agencies and sectors, with successful models including Singapore’s single window approach and Brazil’s cross-agency coordination with the Navy
Regional cooperation frameworks like ASEAN’s Enhanced Guidelines are essential for cable resilience, with commitments to streamline approval processes to 7-10 working days and establish single points of contact
The transition from developing recommendations to practical implementation is the most critical challenge, with emphasis on moving from ‘producing more acts to putting in practice the ones we already have’
Average cable repair times are increasing while cable numbers grow, creating potential capacity gaps that may not be resolved by market forces alone
Effective regulation requires understanding the philosophy behind other countries’ frameworks rather than simply copying solutions, as problems and contexts vary significantly
Multi-sectoral regulatory agencies (like Cape Verde’s ARM regulating telecommunications, energy, water, and transport) are well-positioned to handle the complex infrastructure interdependencies of modern digital infrastructure
The EU and other regions are providing substantial public funding (hundreds of millions of euros) to support submarine cable projects and emergency repair capacity
Resolutions and action items
Singapore committed to conducting capacity building workshops for ASEAN member states to implement the Enhanced Guidelines on submarine cable repair and resilience
Brazil proposed creating regional forums to debate IAB recommendations and improve their implementation across different regions, particularly noting South America’s limited representation
The EU will release its cable security toolbox and funding priorities framework ‘in the coming days’ following the discussion
The EU scheduled a submarine cables conference for March 24th in Brussels to advance implementation efforts
Cape Verde committed to finalizing its national emergency plan for telecommunications (currently under public consultation with ITU support) and developing incident reporting regulations for network safety
Multiple panelists agreed on the need to focus on practical implementation of existing recommendations rather than developing new regulatory frameworks
Unresolved issues
Whether sufficient repair capacity exists globally to handle the growing number of submarine cables and anticipated increase in repair needs
How to effectively coordinate between telecommunications regulators and other sectors (maritime, fishing, energy, construction) that impact cable infrastructure
The feasibility and desirability of creating unified global regulatory frameworks versus maintaining regional/national approaches adapted to local contexts
How to balance the shortest cable routes with long-term planning considerations as maritime environments change
The specific mechanisms for implementing cross-border cooperation and information sharing between regulatory authorities
How to effectively discourage fishing and anchoring in cable areas while respecting traditional maritime activities and economic needs
The establishment of a centralized knowledge platform within ITU for tracking regulations and best practices across countries
Suggested compromises
Focus on harmonizing practical solutions and common principles (like single points of contact) rather than attempting unified legal frameworks across diverse national contexts
Implement step-by-step regional harmonization before attempting global standardization, building on existing regional bodies like ASEAN, ECOWAS, and EU frameworks
Combine private market solutions with targeted public funding for emergency scenarios and capacity gaps, rather than replacing private repair services entirely
Start with smaller, practical steps like identifying relevant authorities and improving coordination before attempting comprehensive regulatory redesign
Balance cable protection needs with other maritime activities through designated cable corridors and protected zones rather than blanket restrictions
Use soft policy approaches and expert groups that can move ‘fast and agile’ rather than binding legislation that takes longer to develop and implement
Thought provoking comments
It’s said that no man is an island, but without submarine cables, every country, every continent is in fact an island. And what we have here today in this panel and who we have here today in this panel are exactly the architects of the legal life jackets that keep the underwater cables afloat.
Speaker
Augusto Fragoso
Reason
This metaphor brilliantly reframes the entire discussion by connecting the famous John Donne quote to modern digital connectivity. It establishes that submarine cables are not just infrastructure but the very foundation of global interconnectedness, while positioning regulators as essential protectors rather than bureaucratic obstacles.
Impact
This opening comment set the philosophical tone for the entire panel, elevating the discussion from technical regulatory matters to a broader conversation about global connectivity and interdependence. It influenced how subsequent speakers framed their responses, with many referring back to concepts of protection, resilience, and international cooperation.
You can protect your cables within your territorial waters, but it’s no good because the cables work only when they’re well-connected around the world. And therefore, we have been working together with the region in ASEAN itself to make sure that there is emphasis on cable protection, on resilience, repair of cables.
Speaker
Ng Cher Pong
Reason
This insight challenges the traditional nation-state approach to infrastructure protection by highlighting the fundamental paradox of submarine cable security – that unilateral protection is ultimately futile. It introduces the critical concept that cable resilience is inherently a collective action problem requiring regional coordination.
Impact
This comment shifted the discussion from individual country approaches to regional cooperation frameworks. It directly influenced subsequent speakers to discuss their own regional initiatives and cross-border cooperation efforts, making regional coordination a central theme throughout the panel.
The problem, I find, is that people come up with solutions for their problems… People then often take that and implement it, and they have a fantastic solution for something that may not be their problem… it’s really important for us, to engage, to talk and understand… so that people genuinely understand problems and find solutions, as opposed to finding solution and then trying to find the problem it is the solution to.
Speaker
Philip Marnick
Reason
This observation provides a profound critique of regulatory copy-paste culture and highlights a fundamental flaw in how regulatory frameworks are developed globally. It challenges the assumption that best practices are universally applicable and emphasizes the importance of understanding context before implementing solutions.
Impact
This comment fundamentally reframed how the panel discussed regulatory harmonization and best practices. It led to more nuanced discussions about adaptation versus adoption of regulatory frameworks, and influenced the final question about unified global solutions, with multiple panelists referencing this insight in their responses about taking incremental, context-appropriate approaches.
The average time to repair cables has gone up. I think the stats are quite clear. I do think that it is timely for all of us to look at all the cases for these… We’ve got to look at where these increases are and ask ourselves, is there sufficient repair capacity to handle the repairs that will surely be needed? Because all things being equal, the number of repairs that are needed will go up. And I’m not sure we have actually looked at that yet.
Speaker
Ng Cher Pong
Reason
This comment introduces a critical gap between the growing importance of submarine cables and the declining efficiency of repair systems. It challenges the assumption that market forces alone will solve capacity issues and suggests a potential systemic failure in the making.
Impact
This insight shifted the discussion toward practical implementation challenges and resource allocation. It influenced the European Commission representative to mention their specific funding for repair capacity, and contributed to the overall theme that emerged about moving from policy recommendations to practical implementation.
We should now start a campaign of publishing it more with the best we can so it can be reached to all the countries. But also we should do regional forums to debate these kind of recommendations because… I am the one member, the only one member for the South America country. So I think that publishing it… make it more easier to make a comprehensive debate about that, seeing the regional threats, the regional situations.
Speaker
Gustavo Borges
Reason
This comment exposes a critical structural inequality in global governance bodies – the underrepresentation of entire regions in decision-making processes. It challenges the legitimacy and effectiveness of global recommendations when large geographical areas lack adequate voice in their development.
Impact
This observation brought attention to representation gaps in international bodies and influenced the discussion toward more inclusive approaches to global governance. It reinforced the theme of regional approaches as necessary complements to global frameworks, and highlighted the need for better outreach and engagement strategies.
It’s also important to not perhaps to aim too high, but start rather with smaller steps that lead into the right direction… From our experience… we didn’t want to kind of completely redesign and re-regulate the whole submarine cable space. First step was really finding out who are the relevant people to talk to.
Speaker
Johannes Theiss
Reason
This comment provides a pragmatic counter-narrative to ambitious global harmonization efforts, advocating for incremental progress and relationship-building as foundations for effective policy. It challenges the tendency toward comprehensive solutions and emphasizes the importance of stakeholder identification and coordination.
Impact
This insight influenced the final discussion about unified global frameworks, with multiple panelists referencing the importance of incremental approaches. It helped establish consensus around practical, step-by-step implementation rather than ambitious but potentially unrealistic harmonization efforts.
Overall assessment
These key comments fundamentally shaped the discussion by establishing several important conceptual frameworks: the interconnected nature of cable security, the limitations of unilateral approaches, the dangers of regulatory copy-paste culture, and the need for incremental, inclusive progress. The discussion evolved from individual country experiences to regional cooperation models, and finally to pragmatic approaches for global coordination. The most impactful insight was the recognition that submarine cable resilience is inherently a collective action problem that requires context-sensitive, regionally-coordinated solutions rather than one-size-fits-all global frameworks. This realization influenced the entire panel to move away from discussing unified global solutions toward more nuanced approaches that balance global principles with regional adaptation and practical implementation challenges.
Follow-up questions
What are the specific causes of delays in cable repair times and how can they be practically resolved?
Speaker
Ng Cher Pong
Explanation
Average repair times have increased, and understanding the root causes is essential for developing practical solutions to reduce downtime
Is there sufficient repair capacity to handle the growing number of submarine cables and expected repairs?
Speaker
Ng Cher Pong
Explanation
With increasing cable deployments, there’s uncertainty whether current repair capacity can meet future demand, and whether market forces alone will address this gap
How can regional forums be established to better disseminate and implement IAB recommendations?
Speaker
Gustavo Borges
Explanation
Only one South American member exists in IAB, suggesting need for broader regional representation and discussion forums to address regional-specific threats and situations
How can better mapping systems be implemented to ensure all stakeholders know where cables are located?
Speaker
Philip Marnick
Explanation
Improved mapping is crucial for preventing cable damage from fishing, anchoring, and other maritime activities
How can fishing activities be better managed in areas with submarine cables?
Speaker
Philip Marnick
Explanation
Fishing and anchors account for 70% of cable cuts, making this a critical area for damage prevention
Should a dedicated knowledge platform within ITU be created to centralize regulations, rules, cases, and best practices?
Speaker
Neşet Dejdedi (Turkey)
Explanation
Regulatory frameworks differ widely between countries with no centralized tracking system, which could benefit researchers, policymakers, and regulators
What maritime surveillance systems exist to monitor activities above submarine cables, and should this be military or civil responsibility?
Speaker
Audience Member (software developer)
Explanation
Understanding who monitors maritime activities above cables and the governance structure is important for threat prevention and response
Is a unified global regulatory framework for submarine cable protection realistic and attainable across different continents and legal systems?
Speaker
Audience Member
Explanation
Given the legal fragmentation across Africa, Asia, Americas, and other regions, there’s question whether harmonized solutions are achievable or if regional approaches are more practical
How can cross-sector coordination be improved between telecommunications regulators and other industries (fishing, shipping, energy, construction)?
Speaker
Philip Marnick
Explanation
The biggest challenge is applying telecommunications regulations to other sectors that interact with submarine cables, requiring pan-sector coordination
How can the EU’s hundreds of millions of euros in planned funding be effectively deployed to support submarine cable projects?
Speaker
Johannes Theiss
Explanation
The European Commission has significant funding planned for cable security projects, and effective deployment mechanisms need to be established
Disclaimer: This is not an official session record. DiploAI generates these resources from audiovisual recordings, and they are presented as-is, including potential errors. Due to logistical challenges, such as discrepancies in audio/video or transcripts, names may be misspelled. We strive for accuracy to the best of our ability.
Related event
International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit 2026
2 Feb 2026 13:00h - 3 Feb 2026 16:00h
Porto, Portugal