Viewpoint
The International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) is calling on governments and industry to facilitate and expedite the deployment, operation, and repair of submarine fibre optic cables during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to protect increasingly important broadband internet connectivity and the governance, health, education and commerce activities that depend on such connectivity.
The ICPC sets out the following key points in their statement:
– Submarine cables are critical internet infrastructure
– Continuing installation and repair during the pandemic are vital
– There is a need for continuing cross-border operations
– Specific measures are recommended
You can view the statement in full here.
About the ICPC
The International Cable Protection Committee was formed in 1958 and its primary goal is to promote the safeguardiang of international submarine cables against manmade and natural hazards. The organisation provides a forum for the exchange of technical, legal and environmental information about submarine cables and, with over 180 Members from over 60 nations, including cable operators, owners, manufacturers, industry service providers, as well as governments, it is the world’s premier submarine cable organisation.
