POLICIES :: eCommunications :: Broadcasting
Broadcasting
More information
- Framework Directive
- Authorisation Directive
- 2 December 2002 - Working Document COCOM 02-31 on the implementation of standards and interoperability of digital interactive television under the new regulatory framework
- 22 July 2002 - Working Document on 'must-carry' obligations under the 2003 regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services
- 8 July 2002 - Working Document on the regulatory treatment of digital radio in the Member States
- 8 July 2002 - Working Document on the regulatory treatment of digital radio in the Member States - Annex (national replies to the digital radio questionnaire)
- 14 June 2002 - Working Document on the 2003 regulatory framework for electronic communications - Implications for broadcasting
Europe is moving towards a new era of broadcasting with the rollout of digital television and radio, and the launch of mobile TV services. The EU’s regulatory environment has been designed to be conducive to innovation, investment and competition, in order to ensure a choice of high-quality broadcast services for consumers.
The Framework Directive and the Authorisation Directive set out the regime for the use of radio frequencies for electronic communications networks and services, including for broadcast purposes.
The Authorisation Directive, in particular, aims to create a single European market for electronic communications by harmonising the rules for authorising the provision of services and networks. Services and networks used for the transmission of radio and television broadcast content, such as satellite broadcasting networks, terrestrial broadcasting networks or cable television networks, are subject to a general authorisation regime which aims to facilitate market access and strengthen competition. As a rule, the Directive stipulates that the allocation and assignment of radio frequencies must be based on objective, transparent, non-discriminatory and proportionate criteria.
Television and radio
The EU policy on television simultaneously pursues the objective of creating a single market in broadcasting while also fostering cultural pluralism and protecting existing national broadcasting markets and institutions. The 1989 Television Without Frontiers Directive set out minimum standards that, if met by any television programme, would allow it to be freely broadcast within the EU without restriction. This Directive, already modified in 1997, is expected to be modified further in early 2008. The revised regulatory framework will cover all audiovisual services, recognising the new variety of delivery routes for the content traditionally viewed only on televisions.
The rollout of digital television across Europe will further expand consumer choice, giving people access to more programmes of higher picture and sound quality as well as the possibility to benefit from interactive services. The Commission is also promoting the rollout of digital radio services through encouraging the use of standards and a favourable regulatory regime.
The Commission is encouraging countries to complete the switchover to digital broadcasting by 2012. This, in turn, will free up premium radio spectrum currently occupied by analogue services for new and innovative communication and broadcast services: the so-called ‘digital dividend’.
Mobile TV
By offering consumers the possibility to watch television anywhere at any time, and allowing them to access interactive services, mobile TV could fundamentally change viewing habits, potentially generating a market of €20 billion worldwide by 2011. To assist in the deployment of mobile TV services, the Commission is encouraging a ‘light-touch’ regulatory environment and promoting the use of standards.