Telecommunications in the Pacific Islands region
International undersea internet cables for Pacific Island countries. Image: Dr Amanda H A Watson and CartoGIS ANU
This paper describes the main challenges for digital connectivity in the Pacific Islands region. It discusses how the Quad could engage with leaders in the Pacific to ensure both access and redundancy.
Key points
- Three main challenges for digital connectivity in the Pacific Islands region are cyberattacks, natural disasters, and cable protection.
- There have been numerous telecommunications initiatives in the Pacific. Nonetheless, more could be done to achieve ubiquity and resilience.
- Access to, and uptake of, telecommunications varies between Pacific Island nations.
Policy recommendations
- The Quad could work with leaders of Pacific Island countries to ensure both access and redundancy.
- Whenever possible, it would be ideal for Quad countries to coordinate directly with local communication ministries to channel funding towards national needs and priorities.
- Alternatively, the Quad could engage with regional Pacific bodies, such as the Pacific Islands Forum and the Pacific Region Infrastructure Facility.
About the series
This paper has been written for the Quad Tech Network Dialogue, as part of the Quad Tech Network (QTN) initiative. QTN is an initiative of the NSC, delivered with support from the Australian Government. It aims to establish and deepen academic and official networks linking the Quad nations – Australia, India, Japan, and the United States – in relation to the most pressing technology issues affecting the future security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific.
