Enhancing Submarine Cable Security
Today in Helsinki, Finland, Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen presented the joint communication from the Commission and the HR/VP focused on improving the security and resilience of submarine cables. Announced by President von der Leyen on February 9 in Vilnius, the communication introduces a series of measures to strengthen the resilience of these critical infrastructures, emphasizing prevention, detection, response, recovery, and deterrence.
Communication cables link various EU member states and carry 99% of intercontinental internet traffic. In recent months, incidents involving submarine cables have nearly caused severe disruptions to essential services in the EU, impacting citizens daily lives. These initiatives directly address these threats.
The communication supports all member states, including those in the Baltic region, which have seen an increase in cable incidents. Key measures include prevention, detection, response, and recovery, as well as deterrence.
These actions complement existing NATO activities and support national and regional efforts, reaffirming Europes commitment to protecting critical submarine infrastructure, essential for global communications and energy security.
More detailed information is available in the press release.
(For more information: Thomas Regnier — Tel. +32 2 299 10 99; Nika Blazevic — Tel. +32 2 299 27 17)
New Election Toolkit and the Digital Services Act
Today, the Commission published an elections toolkit, providing practical details on how the Digital Services Act (DSA) guidelines can be applied during electoral processes. Aimed at national regulators, the toolkit offers advice on practical implementation.
The toolkit summarizes the best practices initiated by national regulators over the past year to mitigate risks on Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Search Engines (VLOSEs) during elections. It offers recommendations in four areas: stakeholder management, communication and media literacy, incident response, and monitoring election-related risks.
The toolkit builds on the Election Guidelines for VLOPs and VLOSEs published in March 2024, and experience gained from implementing the Code of Practice on Disinformation.
(For more information: Thomas Regnier – Tel.: +32 2 299 10 99; Roberta Verbanac – Tel.: +32 2 298 24 98)