Resilience of telecommunication/ICTs

The resilience of global telecommunication and ICT networks is essential for maintaining connectivity, economic stability, and access to critical services during disruptions. Telecommunications infrastructure relies on a complex ecosystem of interconnected systems, including terrestrial networks, submarine cables which carry over 99% of international Internet traffic, and satellite systems that provide redundancy and connectivity in remote and underserved regions. Ensuring the resilience of this infrastructure is increasingly important as societies become more dependent on digital networks for essential services, emergency response, and economic activity.

This theme explores how new and emerging technologies are transforming approaches to strengthening telecommunications resilience. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and advanced monitoring systems are enabling real-time risk detection, predictive maintenance of critical infrastructure, and faster response to network disruptions. At the same time, strengthening resilience requires coordinated policy frameworks, international cooperation, and investments in robust infrastructure, cybersecurity, and disaster preparedness to ensure that telecommunication and ICT services remain reliable during crises.

Related ITU initiatives

Submarine Cable Resilience Initiative – A multi-stakeholder effort led by ITU  and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) to strengthen the protection, deployment, and repair of submarine cables that underpin global connectivity.