The U.S.-China Cable Race and the Risks to Subsea Cables
The U.S.-China cable race is putting the essential infrastructure of subsea cables at risk, as existing institutions seem unprepared to step in.
Geopolitical Cable Competition
The U.S.-China cable race is causing concerns about the fragmentation of the global internet infrastructure. The U.S. Department of Justice's Team Telecom regularly interferes to prevent Chinese companies from winning bids or laying direct U.S.-China cable links. China has also been accused of cutting off subsea internet cables at Taiwan's Matsu island. This competition raises questions about the future of the internet.
While the situation is complex, it is worth noting that data flows have never truly been global. The first deep-sea cable connections were primarily used to connect imperial outposts. Despite efforts to regulate and protect deep-sea cables, they remained politically contested. The U.N. Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS) protects companies' freedom to lay submarine cables, but the lack of a robust regulatory environment leads to disputes over subsea cables.
The Role of International Organizations
The International Telegraph Union (ITU), created in 1865, was one of the world's first international organizations. It set technical standards for data cables and adopted regulations for the protection of submarine telegraph cables. However, the ITU's coordination and agenda-setting powers are complicated by the involvement of various players, including governments, private businesses, and industry forums.
Furthermore, the ownership structures of multi-company consortia that build and operate subsea cables are often messy and unclear. This, along with jurisdictional questions, adds to the challenges of regulating the infrastructure. The ITU's Strategic Plan for 2024-2027 aims to ensure equal internet access for everyone, but it may need to assume a stronger role and impose clear rules to address the risks to subsea cables.
The Need for Independent Regulation
As the race for cable dominance continues, it is important to strive for a global data network based on cooperation and independent regulation. The UnderSea Cable Control Act passed by the U.S. Congress highlights the competitive nature of this race and the potential implications for economic and military power.
The ITU must adapt and play a more active role in regulating subsea cables. This includes enforcing clear rules and reining in companies or their state backers. Ensuring the stability and security of the world's data networks is crucial for equal internet access and international cooperation.
