The Need for Secure Communications Networks and Global Connectivity

Abstract

Secure communications systems are essential to ail effective and comprehensive crop biosecurity plan. Communications are integral to early warning systems, the implementation of rapid response plans, and law enforcement efforts to apprehend those responsible for intentional introductions of infectious agents. The global nature of food production and distribution systems requires international networks of cornmunications to facilitate prevention and mitigation of disease outbreaks in crop systems. Challenges exist to establishing and sustaining global communications networks for crop biosecurity. Those challenges include the appropriate design and rational deployment of securable communications systems, especially for nations with underdeveloped infrastructure and difficult terrain. Also important to achieving crop biosecurity will be the development of a basis for global connectivity that transcends political boundaries, geography, and the pressures of economic vitality. New technologies with innovative design concepts may provide solutions to only some of these challenges. The challenge of establishing mechanisms for international cooperation that do not compromise global trade needs to be addressed.