Europe - Regulatory Environment Overview

Synopsis

The history and framework of European telecommunications market liberalisation is covered here, including the most important regulatory institutions, and issues. EU competition law is considered alongside the numerous Directives that have shaped the markets. As well as the 1998 introduction of liberalisation, the 1999 review is addressed, and the scope of the new regulatory framework is detailed. The region’s regulatory authorities are mentioned, as well as the licensing regimes and the privatisation of state-owned incumbents. The report is best read in conjunction with the Europe – Regulatory Environment – New Regulatory Framework report. The EU conducted a mid-term review of its eEurope 2005 plan in late 2003, and is in the process of formulating new regulatory responses and initiatives.

Table of Contents

• 1. Synopsis
• 2. Telecommunications regulatory environment
  • 2.1 The EU influence
  • 2.2 Brief history of liberalisation
  • 2.3 Harmonisation measures
    • 2.3.1 Open Network Provision (ONP)
  • 2.4 Competition rules
    • 2.4.1 Significant Market Power (SMP)
  • 2.5 Mergers and acquisitions
  • 2.6 Europe wants interoperable 3G and digital TV
  • 2.7 Reviews – 1999 and 2002
    • 2.7.1 New framework adopted – April 2002
    • 2.7.2 Framework Directive and controversial veto
  • 2.8 New legal framework – July 2003
    • 2.8.1 Access and interconnection Directive
    • 2.8.2 Authorisation and market access Directive
    • 2.8.3 Universal service and consumer rights Directive
    • 2.8.4 Data protection Directive
    • 2.8.5 LLU Regulation
    • 2.8.6 Market specific regulation
  • 2.9 Issues for successful implementation
• 3. Regulatory authorities
  • 3.1 EU regulation
  • 3.2 National regulatory authorities (NRAs)
  • 3.3 European Regulators’ Group
  • 3.4 Security agency
• 4. Licensing of fixed networks and services
• 5. Privatisation
  • 5.1 Golden share problems
  • 5.2 State aid back - Analysis updated 2003
    • 5.2.1 Telcos in need of rescue
    • 5.2.2 France and Germany
    • 5.2.3 The broader information highway
• 6. Related reports