Satellite technology is
advancing and being implemented at an alarming pace, with new potentials of
internet connectivity and consumer use. As satellite technology continues to
advance, it offers a promising solution to bridge the digital divide and
enhance global connectivity. However, this development raises several legal
concerns related to sovereignty, data protection, cybersecurity, and
international cooperation that all nations needs to consider.
اضافة اعلان
Access to the internet has
become an essential tool for economic growth, social development, and political
participation in the modern world. However, many countries still lack reliable
internet infrastructure, particularly in remote or underserved areas.
Also, this industry
continues to grow at an alarming rate, global satellite internet market size
was valued at $2.93 billion in 2020, and is projected to reach $18.59 billion
by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 20.4 percent from 2021 to 2030.
How it works
Satellite internet is
accessed through the high-speed internet connectivity from satellites orbiting
the earth. It is much quicker than traditional internet service and different
than land-based internet services, such as DSL and cable, which transmit
information through wires. The radio waves used in satellite internet
technology communicate with satellites encircling the earth.
The satellite internet platform
retrieves and sends information through a communication network and then sends
the data out to a space satellite through a satellite dish, then back again to
ground stations.
As satellites operate
beyond national boundaries, it becomes crucial to establish clear legal
frameworks that define a country's rights over its airspace and regulate the
use of satellite communication within its territory. International agreements
should be developed to address potential conflicts arising from overlapping jurisdictions.
Satellite-based internet
services involve transmitting vast amounts of data across borders, raising
concerns about data protection and privacy regulations. Countries must ensure
that appropriate legal safeguards are in place to protect user data from
unauthorized access or misuse during transmission or storage on satellites or
ground stations.
Hence, I am wondering if
the Jordanian authorities will recognize the upcoming changes in Jordanian Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) and will the Jordanian Parliament think outside
the box and enact a comprehensive legislation?
Security risks
Furthermore, the increased
reliance on satellite-based internet introduces new cybersecurity risks that
can potentially compromise national security interests. Satellites are
vulnerable targets for cyberattacks due to their complex infrastructure and
limited ability for real-time monitoring or remotely patching vulnerabilities.
Governments must
collaborate with industry stakeholders to establish robust cybersecurity
measures and protocols to safeguard satellite networks from malicious
activities. However, Jordanian cybersecurity policies are currently ineffective
and the attack on the Ministry Of Political Affaires website is an excellent
example of the weakness of cybersecurity measures that has been taken by the
Jordanian government.
Required steps
Satellite internet
providers require access to specific frequency bands or spectrums to transmit
signals between satellites and user terminals on the ground. Governments need
to allocate suitable spectrum resources for satellite internet services through
a fair and transparent process. This ensures efficient use of limited spectrum
resources while avoiding interference with other services.
Regulatory frameworks
should clearly define the liability of satellite internet providers in case of
service disruptions, data breaches, or other incidents that may cause harm to
users or third parties. These frameworks should outline the responsibilities of
providers regarding data protection, privacy, security measures, and
compensation mechanisms for affected parties.
To address potential
conflicts between satellite internet providers and users or other stakeholders,
countries should establish effective dispute-resolution mechanisms. These
mechanisms can include specialized tribunals or arbitration processes that are
capable of handling complex technical issues related to satellite
communications.
It is important to note
that regulatory frameworks must strike a balance between promoting innovation
and competition while safeguarding public interest objectives such as universal
access to affordable broadband services, consumer protection, and fair market
practices. By developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks covering
licensing, spectrum allocation, liability provisions, and dispute resolution
mechanisms, countries can provide a stable and predictable legal environment
for satellite internet provision. This, in turn, encourages investment,
innovation, and the expansion of satellite internet services while mitigating
legal uncertainties.
Hamza Alakaleek is a Corporate lawyer and tax consultant
with post-graduate degrees in international political economy, international
business law, and law and technology with a focus on internet of things,
artificial intelligence and data protection.
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