Electronic communications

The European Union (EU) regulatory framework on electronic communications is governed by Directive (EU) 2018/1972, which establishes the European electronic communications code.

The directive:

• contains a set of updated rules to regulate electronic communications (telecoms) networks, telecoms services, and associated facilities and services;
• sets out the tasks for national regulatory authorities and other relevant authorities, and establishes a set of procedures to ensure that the regulatory framework is harmonised throughout the EU;
• aims to stimulate competition and increased investment in 5G and very high capacity networks, so that every citizen and business in the EU can enjoy high-quality connectivity, a high level of consumer protection and an increased choice of innovative digital services.

Other legislative acts relevant to electronic communications include Regulation (EU) No 531/2012 (now replaced by Regulation (EU) 2022/612) on roaming on public mobile telephone networks within the EU and Directive 2002/58/EC on data protection in the electronic communications sector.

It should be noted that Directive (EU) 2018/1972 does not cover the content of services delivered over electronic communications networks using electronic communications services, such as broadcasting content, financial services and certain information society services.

SEE ALSO

• Electronic communications networks
• Electronic communications services
• Trans-European networks (TENs)
• Universal service
• Competition in electronic communications and services (summary)
• Data protection in the electronic communications sector (summary)
• European Electronic Communications Code (summary)
• Roaming charges within the European Union (summary)
• Electronic communications (European Commission).