The European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association has taken a bold step in its battle against US tech giants. In a recently published position paper, the association, which represents Europe’s largest telecoms operators, calls for a level playing field in the regulatory landscape.
Telecoms demand fair treatment
ETNO’s position highlights the growing divide between European telecoms and US tech giants like Netflix and YouTube. At the heart of the conflict is the disparity in regulatory constraints and profit distribution. Telecoms operators argue that while investing heavily in infrastructure, content providers are capitalising on these networks without bearing equivalent costs or regulatory oversight. reported Euractive.
Regulatory divergences
Paolo Grassia, senior director of public policy at ETNO, highlighted the disparities in regulatory treatment. He cited issues such as contractual terms, bundling and emergency reporting obligations, which are stricter for telecoms than for U.S. tech companies providing similar services.
Related: UK passes Digital Markets and Competition Bill to rein in tech giants
Calls for regulatory parity
ETNO’s position paper responds to the European Commission’s (EC) recent White Paper on telecommunications and ongoing public consultations. The association advocates for harmonisation of regulatory frameworks in order to create a level playing field in the telecommunications and technology sectors.
Evolution of telecommunications regulations
GSMA’s Laszlo Toth highlighted the need to adapt regulatory frameworks to technological advances. He suggested extending telecoms regulation to the entire connectivity value chain, including cloud infrastructure, to ensure comprehensive oversight.
Future prospects
The debate, sparked by the European Commission’s White Paper on Telecoms, marks a turning point in Europe’s digital strategy. As the consultation period draws to a close, stakeholders are awaiting potential policy changes that could impact the future of connectivity and competition in the EU.
Source: Euractive
