國際海洋資訊

As the world grapples with multiple challenges—climate change, extreme weather events, resource competition, and regional security—the role of the ocean becomes ever more vital. As Minister of the Ocean Affairs Council, I have always believed that Taiwan is a gentle yet steadfast force in the Pacific. We are not only users of the ocean but also its guardians. More importantly, we hope to instill a deep reverence for the sea in the hearts of our people—so that the vision of becoming a "marine nation" is not just political rhetoric, but a shared philosophy of life.

We have redesigned the International Ocean Information quarterly. This is not merely a visual update, but the beginning of a fresh perspective. Our hope is for this publication to connect researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and everyone who cares about the ocean—in Taiwan and across the globe. Through in-depth thematic discussions, we aim to amplify Taiwan's voice internationally and showcase our expertise, sense of responsibility, and commitment to ocean affairs. 

This quarter, we have taken strides onto the global stage. In April, we participated in both the Our Ocean Conference (OOC) and the 5th APEC Ocean-Related Ministerial Meeting (AOMM5). There, we engaged in meaningful dialogues with global policymakers and experts on key issues including marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries, marine pollution, climate change, maritime security, the blue economy, and digital ocean initiatives. I led the Taiwanese delegation to AOMM5, where we held seven bilateral meetings over two days and shared Taiwan's practical policy achievements. These engagements have not only increased Taiwan's visibility but also strengthened our position within the global current of ocean governance—contributing pragmatically to sustainability and peace.

In June, we will celebrate both World Oceans Day and National Oceans Day. The theme for World Oceans Day— Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us—reminds us that while we marvel at the ocean's wonders, we must also sustain those wonders through concrete actions. The theme for Taiwan's National Oceans Day—Diverse Oceans, Sustainable Harmony—continues to deepen public marine awareness. In July, the Ocean Affairs Council will host the International Ocean Forum, bringing together global experts—including contributors featured in this issue—to discuss maritime security and the blue economy. We warmly invite you to join us in experiencing the flow of ideas and the power of global connection.

The ocean offers not just resources, but ever-changing possibilities and an embracing inclusiveness. We believe that a gentle and steadfast conviction is the driving force for change. May International Ocean Information be more than just the start of your reading journey—let it be an extension of actions. Together, let us write a profound blue chapter for Taiwan and for our shared planet.

International Ocean Information has now entered its sixth year with the publication of Issue No. 35. Starting this year, the journal has been revamped into a quarterly publication. To better align with global developments, each issue will focus on core themes with a transnational perspective, connecting our readers to international trends while enhancing domestic dialogue. We are also honored to have calligrapher Wu Jui-tien inscribe the journal's new title—his brushwork captures both the stillness and dynamism of the ocean, symbolizing our care for and visual conception of these vast blue waters. 

Why focus on submarine cables and maritime security in this issue?

The ocean is not merely the endpoint of a nation's territory—it is the starting point of national security, technological advancement, and international connectivity. Much of the internet we use, the videos we watch, and the messages we send travel through submarine cables spanning the ocean floor. Despite this crucial role, these cables are only a few centimeters in diameter and have been vulnerable to disruptions from ship anchors, fishing trawls, and underwater construction activities. These damages can trigger massive internet outages, halt financial transactions, and even pose national security risks. More recently, however, an alarming rise in deliberate cable sabotage has emerged, with a particular state even developing specialized equipment for such purposes.

And that is why this issue of International Ocean Information takes "Maritime Security" as its central theme, focusing particularly on the safety of submarine cables and responses to gray-zone activities. We examined the severity of the threat and explored prevention and protection strategies. 

Through case studies of recent cable damage incidents in Taiwan and abroad, we invited Professor Chiang Yachi of National Taiwan Ocean University, John F. Bradford—executive director and senior fellow of the Yokosuka Council on Asia-Pacific Studies (YCAPS), research fellow Mingi Hyun, and maritime security expert Benjamin Blandin to assess legal gaps, technological limitations, and the lack of backup systems associated with global communications infrastructure. Their insights are complemented by a review of the European Union's action plan, which outlines a four-pronged approach—prevention, detection, response, and deterrence—to safeguard submarine cables.

On the topic of gray-zone challenges, we address the increasing frequency and complexity of ambiguous regional maritime activities. Contributors include Atsuko Kanehara from Japan's Sasakawa Peace Foundation, strategic studies scholar Renato Cruz De Castro from De La Salle University in the Philippines, and Senior Analyst Su Tzuyun from Taiwan's Institute for National Defense and Security Research. Together, they explore how legal tools, technological support, and international cooperation can reinforce maritime security governance and help build a shared national consensus on a "blue homeland" strategy to enhance both oceanic resilience and public awareness.

In our People column, we highlight the theme of "Ocean Women's Power in Taiwan," featuring three female leaders—Minister Kuan Bi-ling, Deputy Minister Huang Hsiang-wen, and Dr. Chen Chung-ling, President of the National Academy of Marine Research. These distinguished leaders made impactful appearances at the 5th APEC Ocean-Related Ministerial Meeting (AOMM5), The Economist's World Ocean Summit, and the Our Ocean Conference, showcasing Taiwan's capabilities in ocean governance and promoting gender diversity.

Their participation ensured that Taiwan's voice was heard on the global stage and demonstrated the power of female leadership in shaping international marine agendas.

To keep readers informed on cutting-edge marine technologies, we have introduced a new Tech Pulse section. This issue features insights into submarine cable deployment, risk typologies, and monitoring technologies. Our new Think Global section introduces key international ocean think tanks and NGOs, highlighting how the third sector is driving institutional innovation and strategic cooperation. We hope this revamped International Ocean Information will help you "see the ocean from a different side" and inspire deeper thought and action for the future of Taiwan's oceans. If there are topics you care deeply about, we sincerely welcome your input—together, let us ensure Taiwan's voice is heard firmly and clearly in global ocean dialogues.