Submarine Cables Protection and Regulations: A Comparative Analysis and Model Framework

This book emphasizes the importance of timely approval for carriers and cable repairing ships, as well as the need for a dedicated national instrument on submarine cables. It conducts a systematic inquiry and analysis of submarine cable regimes and relevant authorities, suggests measures for cable laying and security risks, and proposes a common minimum framework for national instruments to strengthen the management of the cable system. The book is a useful reference for stakeholders in the cable industries, pipeline, fishing, shipping, academia, government authorities, international bodies, and the maritime community.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 177 pages
Publication date: 09 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the critical importance of laying, quick relinking, and protecting submarine cables through timely approval for carriers and cable repairing ships. It highlights the challenges faced in many jurisdictions, particularly in appreciating the need for a dedicated national instrument on submarine cables. Currently, there is a lack of a model legal framework for national instruments on submarine cables. To address these gaps, the book conducts a systematic inquiry and analysis of submarine cable regimes and relevant authorities. It consults existing knowledge on international law on cables, analyzes specific principles and provisions on laying, repair, and maintenance of submarine cables, and examines the obligations of states towards protecting cables from vulnerabilities. The book also touches upon cable regulation in the deep sea, particularly concerning the International Seabed Authority and proposed biodiversity agreements. It provides suitable measures for cable laying and addresses security risks in the marine space beyond national jurisdictions.

To assess the responses of states, the book explores the domestic cable regimes, including selected jurisdictions such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. It analyzes specific legal provisions and institutional set-ups and demonstrates state practices, approaches, and loopholes in the governance of the cable system within national jurisdictions.

In conclusion, the book suggests adopting a spatial ocean management approach, establishing a dedicated regulatory authority, establishing a competent enforcement agency, imposing strict liability with exemplary punishment for cable damage, and developing a comprehensive cable system to enhance its management. Additionally, it proposes a common minimum framework for national instruments seeking coastal states' deliberation. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen the governance and protection of submarine cables, ensuring the seamless connectivity and reliability of our global communication networks.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811634383
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021