Is Europe's Open Internet at a Crossroads? The European Commission's upcoming Digital Networks Act (DNA) promises to be a game-changer, but it's also sparking heated debates. This legislation aims to rewrite the rules governing telecom operators, cloud services, and content providers, raising crucial questions about fairness, competition, innovation, and the very essence of our open internet. But here's where it gets controversial: Could this act, intended to modernize, actually threaten the internet's openness and accessibility?
Join us for a thought-provoking hybrid event where we dissect the DNA's implications. We'll explore the risks and opportunities it presents, and engage in a lively debate on shaping a DNA that truly benefits Europeans in the digital age.
And this is the part most people miss: The DNA isn't just about technical regulations; it's about the future of how we connect, communicate, and innovate.
Panel 1: Leveling the Playing Field - Fact or Fiction?
At the heart of the matter lies a fundamental question: Should regulations originally designed for telecom operators be applied to the broader tech sector? The European Commission argues for increasing convergence between telecoms and tech giants, particularly cloud and content providers. Telecom companies, unsurprisingly, advocate for a unified regulatory framework.
This panel will delve into the distinct structures and functions of these sectors, while also examining their interdependence. We'll navigate the complex web of existing EU regulations to address a critical question: Is extending the EECC to digital players necessary, fair, or even feasible?
A bold perspective: Could this convergence lead to a monopolistic tech landscape, stifling innovation and consumer choice?
Panel 2: The DNA and the Open Internet: A Delicate Balance
What concrete threats does the DNA pose to the open internet? This panel will scrutinize the reality of telecom-tech collaboration and analyze recurring proposals that raise red flags, as seen in the DNA call for evidence and public consultations.
A key focus will be the potential for IP interconnection disputes to morph into network fees, fundamentally altering how the internet operates today. Experts with firsthand experience will share their insights, highlighting the real-world consequences for competition, innovation, and everyday users.
Food for thought: Could the DNA inadvertently create a two-tiered internet, favoring established players over newcomers?
Panel 3: Crafting a DNA That Works for Europe
How can we ensure the DNA delivers on its promise of best-in-class connectivity and fosters a vibrant competitive landscape? This panel will move beyond rhetoric to examine the realities: the financial health of telecom companies, the progress of network roll-outs, and the complex dynamics between tech giants and telecom providers.
We'll dissect the persistent arguments driving the DNA debate – investment gaps, exploding data traffic, and the impact of AI – alongside the telecom sector's push for consolidation. Most crucially, we'll explore legislative design choices that can make the DNA a powerful tool for European consumers, businesses, and innovators.
Organized by: The Computer and Communications Industry Association (CCIA Europe)
Media Partner: Euractiv
Let's continue the conversation: What are your thoughts on the DNA? Does it strike the right balance between regulation and innovation? Share your perspectives in the comments below – we want to hear from you!
