Proposed Amendments in Security Aspects of Draft Broadband Security Policy 2021 Framework for Pakistan, Based on Best Practices Involved in Broadband Security Framework of Contemporary Countries and International Standards

Abstract

Broadband security is an essential component of modern life and a requirement for economic growth, education, health care, and public safety. Maximizing broadband coverage and meaningful use is an imperative for national and individual success. Advances in wired and wireless broadband technology have dramatically changed the way we work, play, and connect with each other. Future proof fiber optics and the next generation of wireless network technology, or 5G, will be transformational. Through forward-looking policy that supports research and development, enables access to spectrum, takes into account security, considers the important role of standards, and provides government incentives and funding to ensure ubiquitous access to connectivity, countries around the world can ensure the successful deployment of broadband and 5G technologies. Following the same level of broadband security requirements other sovereign countries like USA, China, Russia and Malaysia took lead and developed and updated their broadband security framework through coordinated effort amongst business industry and government. This framework comprises of measures, rules, and practices to showcase the safety of imperative foundation. Broadband security policy of Pakistan was issued by Ministry of Information Technology (MoIT) in 2004 which has become outdated with time. Thus a new broadband security policy is required for furthering the initiative of Digital Pakistan. It is pivotal to craft a policy vision that is user-centric, market-oriented, simple to govern, and all-inclusive, laying a strong foundation to address outstanding issues expediently and explore new opportunities in the most agile manner. This broadband security framework will provide a general perspective on all components of digital development and broadband security that need to be considered by ministries and Government agencies in digitizing information. Accordingly, the ministries and agencies of Pakistan will develop their respective Department's broadband policies based on this framework and the Public Sector broadband security Policy to manage and ensure that all activities carried out in the Department comply with the requirements highlighted.