Telecom giants caution against mandatory fee rollouts amid overhaul
European Commission Anticipated to Unveil Digital Networks Act in December
The European Commission is set to introduce the Digital Networks Act in December, a crucial step toward strengthening digital infrastructure across the EU.
Key Elements of the Act
- Enhanced security protocols for online services
- Clear guidelines for data transparency
- Robust measures against malicious content
Stakeholders are expected to watch closely as the Commission finalizes the draft, aiming to foster a safer and more efficient digital environment.
Digital Networks Act Faces Resistance from 84 European Associations
Why the “fair share” mechanism is contested
In a collective statement, 84 organisations—including the EBU, Euroconsumers and EDRi—voiced opposition to a prospective mandatory fee that would earmark revenue for telecom infrastructure expansion. This proposal would force content owners to pay network operators for the passage of data.
Core Arguments Against the Fee
- Net Neutrality at Risk: The “fair share” policy could distort the balance of open internet access.
- Cost Inflation: Adding interconnection charges is likely to increase overall business expenditures.
- Limited Choice: Consumers might encounter fewer options for digital content.
- Erosion of Quality and Variety: The result could be cheaper, lower‑quality services with reduced diversity.
Current Legislative Phase
The Digital Networks Act, slated for submission by the European Commission in December, is built on a white paper issued in February of last year. The public consultation, which ends this Friday, continues to assess whether the proposed fee should be incorporated.
Influence of the Telecom Industry
Originating as a recommendation by former EU Tech Commissioner Thierry Breton, the plan aimed to levy charges on online platforms and other network users to fund infrastructure growth. Over time, the provisions have been softened, but the debate remains vigorous.
Potential Regulatory Extensions
- Widening the scope of existing telecom regulations to create an unbiased field for all network players.
- Introducing new measures for spectrum management and sustainability targets.
Connect Europe, the telecom providers’ association, recently published a call for higher sector investment, underscoring the importance of modernizing the network while safeguarding consumer interests.
