The EU is making recommendations to further emphasize the importance of the submarine cable infrastructure. Member States are encouraged to invest more in this infrastructure and to prioritize related applications.

The Commission has put forward recommendations calling on Member States to invest more in undersea internet cable infrastructure. The EU wants to improve the security and resilience of this critical infrastructure, as it forms the crucial basis of international internet traffic. In times of war and conflict, communications via submarine cable infrastructure is a critical and weak link. Therefore, EU Member States are asked to give top priority to all requests related to cable infrastructure.

Importance of submarine cable infrastructure

European economies and societies are increasingly reliant on the internet and international connectivity. The submarine cable infrastructure plays an important role here, as the majority of international data traffic runs via this route. In times of war and conflict, it is crucial to provide additional protection for this important link.

With the new recommendations, the Commission calls for faster processing of applications related to submarine cable infrastructure for construction, operation, maintenance or repair work. The EU’s advice to its member states is therefore reversed “To give submarine cable infrastructure the status of highest possible national interest.” bee The recommendations also became one White paper published analyzing why the need for a more resilient digital infrastructure is so important.

Turbulent times

From a security perspective, the Commission wants EU Member States to adequately manage and control infrastructure to protect it from external threats. Member States should carry out a cybersecurity and physical security risk assessment, but also impose obligations on suppliers and operators to provide additional security.

Due to the unrest in the world, such important connections receive special attention when it comes to security. For example, in 2022, a submarine cable in the United Kingdom was damaged and another cable was severed. The current conflicts mean that we work with particular caution.