POLICIES :: eCommunications :: Implementation and enforcement of the current rules
Implementation and enforcement of the current rules
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The liberalisation of the European telecoms market from 1998 has brought more competition to the markets, and in turn brought major benefits to consumers in the form of lower prices and better services. Market regulation has nonetheless continued to be necessary and the Commission oversees it is correctly implemented and enforced to ensure that consumers benefit to the maximum.
Competition in the liberalised market is seen as the key to promoting technological progress. It brings rewards and provides opportunities for innovative companies, particularly in a sector that has experienced intense technological convergence in recent years. However, market forces are not always sufficient to generate growth, protect consumers and ensure a level playing field for new entrants in the telecoms sector, where imperfect competitive conditions exist due to the legacy of national, often state-run monopolies.
For that reason, the Commission sees continued regulation as essential in order to counterbalance the significant market power of former monopolies, ensure universal service and protect consumers, especially those social groups that may otherwise face exclusion. To ensure that telecoms markets benefit from continued market regulation, the Commission oversees the correct implementation and enforcement of the Directives.
Our aim is to contribute to the timely and consistent implementation of the regulatory framework for electronic communications by:
- Monitoring implementation in the Member States
- Launching infringement proceedings against Member States when required.
- Ensuring bilateral contacts with Member States' ministries, market players and regulatory authorities
- Carrying out Community consultation procedures through the Article 7 process
- Supporting the work of the Communications Committee which brings together Member States’ officials to coordinate the implementation of the regulatory framework
- Reporting on implementation to the European Parliament and Council
One of the key obligations imposed on Member States is for the national regulatory authorities (NRAs) to define markets appropriate to national circumstances, based on the markets set out in the Commission’s Recommendation on relevant markets. The NRAs carry out market analysis and determine whether effective competition exists in such markets. If competition is found to be lacking, NRAs are required to draft regulatory measures and submit their plans to the Commission for approval. In this way, a consistent approach is developed throughout the internal market, while permitting maximum flexibility to deal with national markets and conditions.
The Commission also publishes a regular report that highlights major trends and developments on broadband access in the EU. The availability of broadband is a key indicator of ICT development.