![\"Three](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-52.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the opening of MWC26, European CEOs Christel Heydemann, Orange, and Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group, joined industry leaders to chart a path toward a hyper-connected world shaped by AI-native networks and next-generation infrastructure. Discover how operators are rethinking value creation and building the foundations of a more dynamic, intelligent and equitable digital economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Europe’s thought leaders on strategic tech sovereignty<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Four](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Keynote-4-b.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Industry thought leaders from some of Europe\u2019s leading companies, including Eutelsat, Telef\u00f3nica, and Deutsche Telekom, reflected on how the region can strengthen its autonomy while remaining open, innovative, and globally engaged amid rising geopolitical risk and intensifying technological rivalry. Guided by Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the GSMA, the discussion highlighted that strategic investment and strong political commitment will be crucial to shaping a more sovereign, competitive, and resilient future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch Keynote 4<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European Commission takes the spotlight at MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/EC_1024x427.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
MWC26 was honoured to welcome Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy in Barcelona. Henna Virkkunen took the main stage with a keynote titled “Advancing Europe\u2019s Telecom Framework: More Competitiveness, More Single Market, More Resilience”. In her address, she doubled down on the importance of strengthening Europe\u2019s telecom landscape by boosting competitiveness, deepening Single Market integration, and enhancing resilience.
On the same day, EVP Virkkunen also met with the CEOs of European GSMA board members to exchange views on the Digital Networks Act and the future of connectivity in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch EVP Virkkunen’s Keynote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EU Ministers at the GSMA Ministerial Programme<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/EU-Ministerial-Roundtable.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year’s programme brought together EU Ministers and leading European telecommunications industry CEOs to engage in a forward-looking dialogue on the continent\u2019s digital future. The EU Ministerial roundtable focused on the Digital Networks Act (DNA) and served as a timely platform for discussing the implications of the DNA, exploring how this transformative legislation can help Europe build a resilient, competitive, and innovative connectivity landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Split](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-50.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EU Ministers also took the Ministerial Stage to discuss global and European topics such as tech sovereignty, global digital policy cooperation and public\u2013private collaboration to drive prosperity and progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch GSMA Ministerial Programme opening with Cyprus Minister Damianou and Mike Fries, CEO Liberty Global<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch Dr. Karsten Wildberger, Germany’s Federal Minister for Digital Affairs, opening “The Tech Sovereignty Trade-off” session<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European Parliament delegation in Barcelona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Collage](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-51.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA and the European Internet Forum again created a tailor-made programme for Members of the European Parliament visiting MWC26. The activities began with a Welcome Reception for MEPs, EU institutions, and members, featuring insights from EU lawmakers and GSMA’s Laszlo Toth on the future of connectivity in Europe, with a special focus on upcoming policy initiatives such as the Digital Networks Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA also organised a high-level roundtable with Members of the European Parliament and representatives of mobile network operators to discuss the Digital Networks Act. Opened by GSMA’s Elsa Sependa, MEP del Castillo and Jakob Greiner, Chair of the GSMA Policy Group Europe, the roundtable allowed participants to explore in detail the future of Europe\u2019s digital connectivity and the Digital Networks Act proposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Members of the European Parliament also visited the MWC exhibition stands of mobile operators, European telecom vendors, and other industry players.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Digital Networks Act put to the test on the GSMA Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-DNA-Test.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The proposed Digital Networks Act was among the most debated topics this year. To further examine the proposal GSMA’s Laszlo Toth brought together EU policymakers and industry leaders to explore whether the DNA in its current form truly delivers the scale, cohesion, and regulatory clarity Europe needs to stay competitive in the global digital economy. Panellists included Renate Nikolay, Deputy Director\u2011General at DG CONNECT in the European Commission; Micha\u0142 Kobosko, Member of the European Parliament; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; and Juan Montero Rodil, Chief Public Policy, Competition and Regulatory Officer at Telef\u00f3nica S.A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch “Europe’s DNA Test” Panel<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Competition in the Digital Age<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-53.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This session with Dominique Leroy, Member of the Board of Management and CEO Europe of Deutsche Telekom, Pietro Labriola, CEO & General Manager of TIM and Marcelo Benitez, CEO of Millicom, moderated by Professor Alexandre de Streel explored new thinking on mobile market structures, weighing the role of consolidation, regional variation, and investor confidence in building resilient, inclusive digital economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European regulators visit MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BEREC-RT.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA welcomed European regulators at MWC26 and the Ministerial Programme. At the annual GSMA-BEREC Regulatory Roundtable, BEREC delegates, led by Marko Mi\u0161ma\u0161, BEREC Chair 2026, discussed with representatives of the European mobile operators the key issues facing connectivity in Europe. Participants exchanged views on the key aspects of the Digital Networks Act such as open internet, dispute resolution, regulatory simplification and spectrum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An MWC26 exhibition tour was also organised for the BEREC delegation as part of their visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Highlights from the Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Four](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Highlights-1-1.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European policymakers and regulators were among the key voices shaping this year\u2019s GSMA Ministerial Programme. The agenda featured contributions from \u00d3scar L\u00f3pez Agueda, Spain\u2019s Minister for Digital and Civil Service Transformation; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; Wolfgang Kopf, Senior Vice President for Group Public and Regulatory Affairs at Deutsche Telekom; and Giacomo Robustelli, Vice President for European Affairs & Economic Studies at TIM, along with many other distinguished leaders who helped frame the discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ministerial pass holders can access all sessions on demand and continue exploring the insights shared throughout the event. Planning is already underway for next year’s Programme, taking place from 1-3 March 2027. Make sure to secure your place and be part of the conversations that will shape Europe\u2019s digital future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nGSMA Ministerial Programme<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Latest GSMA reports launched at MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Mobile Economy 2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The countdown begins. See you at MWC Barcelona 2027!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/General-Highlights.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We hope your visit to Barcelona was inspiring and memorable. Thank you to all attendees, exhibitors, sponsors and partners, along with everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this event one of the standout tech and start-up gatherings of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mark your calendars for MWC Barcelona 2027<\/strong>, happening 1\u20134 March 2027<\/strong>. We can\u2019t wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable edition: more innovation, more connections, and even more reasons to be excited about the future!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":15572,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"","_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,28],"tags":[],"algolia_discover_type":[],"class_list":["post-15498","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\n
#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona - GSMA Europe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"GSMA Europe\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/gsma\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T11:20:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T14:32:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-27.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"mgalani@gsma.com\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@GSMA\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@GSMA\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"mgalani@gsma.com\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona - GSMA Europe","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona","og_description":"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. 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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Industry thought leaders from some of Europe\u2019s leading companies, including Eutelsat, Telef\u00f3nica, and Deutsche Telekom, reflected on how the region can strengthen its autonomy while remaining open, innovative, and globally engaged amid rising geopolitical risk and intensifying technological rivalry. Guided by Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the GSMA, the discussion highlighted that strategic investment and strong political commitment will be crucial to shaping a more sovereign, competitive, and resilient future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European Commission takes the spotlight at MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
MWC26 was honoured to welcome Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy in Barcelona. Henna Virkkunen took the main stage with a keynote titled “Advancing Europe\u2019s Telecom Framework: More Competitiveness, More Single Market, More Resilience”. In her address, she doubled down on the importance of strengthening Europe\u2019s telecom landscape by boosting competitiveness, deepening Single Market integration, and enhancing resilience.
On the same day, EVP Virkkunen also met with the CEOs of European GSMA board members to exchange views on the Digital Networks Act and the future of connectivity in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch EVP Virkkunen’s Keynote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EU Ministers at the GSMA Ministerial Programme<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year’s programme brought together EU Ministers and leading European telecommunications industry CEOs to engage in a forward-looking dialogue on the continent\u2019s digital future. The EU Ministerial roundtable focused on the Digital Networks Act (DNA) and served as a timely platform for discussing the implications of the DNA, exploring how this transformative legislation can help Europe build a resilient, competitive, and innovative connectivity landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EU Ministers also took the Ministerial Stage to discuss global and European topics such as tech sovereignty, global digital policy cooperation and public\u2013private collaboration to drive prosperity and progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch GSMA Ministerial Programme opening with Cyprus Minister Damianou and Mike Fries, CEO Liberty Global<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch Dr. Karsten Wildberger, Germany’s Federal Minister for Digital Affairs, opening “The Tech Sovereignty Trade-off” session<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European Parliament delegation in Barcelona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA and the European Internet Forum again created a tailor-made programme for Members of the European Parliament visiting MWC26. The activities began with a Welcome Reception for MEPs, EU institutions, and members, featuring insights from EU lawmakers and GSMA’s Laszlo Toth on the future of connectivity in Europe, with a special focus on upcoming policy initiatives such as the Digital Networks Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA also organised a high-level roundtable with Members of the European Parliament and representatives of mobile network operators to discuss the Digital Networks Act. Opened by GSMA’s Elsa Sependa, MEP del Castillo and Jakob Greiner, Chair of the GSMA Policy Group Europe, the roundtable allowed participants to explore in detail the future of Europe\u2019s digital connectivity and the Digital Networks Act proposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Members of the European Parliament also visited the MWC exhibition stands of mobile operators, European telecom vendors, and other industry players.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Digital Networks Act put to the test on the GSMA Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The proposed Digital Networks Act was among the most debated topics this year. To further examine the proposal GSMA’s Laszlo Toth brought together EU policymakers and industry leaders to explore whether the DNA in its current form truly delivers the scale, cohesion, and regulatory clarity Europe needs to stay competitive in the global digital economy. Panellists included Renate Nikolay, Deputy Director\u2011General at DG CONNECT in the European Commission; Micha\u0142 Kobosko, Member of the European Parliament; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; and Juan Montero Rodil, Chief Public Policy, Competition and Regulatory Officer at Telef\u00f3nica S.A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch “Europe’s DNA Test” Panel<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Competition in the Digital Age<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This session with Dominique Leroy, Member of the Board of Management and CEO Europe of Deutsche Telekom, Pietro Labriola, CEO & General Manager of TIM and Marcelo Benitez, CEO of Millicom, moderated by Professor Alexandre de Streel explored new thinking on mobile market structures, weighing the role of consolidation, regional variation, and investor confidence in building resilient, inclusive digital economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European regulators visit MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA welcomed European regulators at MWC26 and the Ministerial Programme. At the annual GSMA-BEREC Regulatory Roundtable, BEREC delegates, led by Marko Mi\u0161ma\u0161, BEREC Chair 2026, discussed with representatives of the European mobile operators the key issues facing connectivity in Europe. Participants exchanged views on the key aspects of the Digital Networks Act such as open internet, dispute resolution, regulatory simplification and spectrum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An MWC26 exhibition tour was also organised for the BEREC delegation as part of their visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Highlights from the Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European policymakers and regulators were among the key voices shaping this year\u2019s GSMA Ministerial Programme. The agenda featured contributions from \u00d3scar L\u00f3pez Agueda, Spain\u2019s Minister for Digital and Civil Service Transformation; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; Wolfgang Kopf, Senior Vice President for Group Public and Regulatory Affairs at Deutsche Telekom; and Giacomo Robustelli, Vice President for European Affairs & Economic Studies at TIM, along with many other distinguished leaders who helped frame the discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ministerial pass holders can access all sessions on demand and continue exploring the insights shared throughout the event. Planning is already underway for next year’s Programme, taking place from 1-3 March 2027. Make sure to secure your place and be part of the conversations that will shape Europe\u2019s digital future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nGSMA Ministerial Programme<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Latest GSMA reports launched at MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Mobile Economy 2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The countdown begins. See you at MWC Barcelona 2027!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We hope your visit to Barcelona was inspiring and memorable. Thank you to all attendees, exhibitors, sponsors and partners, along with everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this event one of the standout tech and start-up gatherings of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mark your calendars for MWC Barcelona 2027<\/strong>, happening 1\u20134 March 2027<\/strong>. We can\u2019t wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable edition: more innovation, more connections, and even more reasons to be excited about the future!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":15572,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"","_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,28],"tags":[],"algolia_discover_type":[],"class_list":["post-15498","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\n
#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona - GSMA Europe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"GSMA Europe\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/gsma\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T11:20:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T14:32:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-27.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"mgalani@gsma.com\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@GSMA\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@GSMA\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"mgalani@gsma.com\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona - GSMA Europe","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona","og_description":"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. 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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
MWC26 was honoured to welcome Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy in Barcelona. Henna Virkkunen took the main stage with a keynote titled “Advancing Europe\u2019s Telecom Framework: More Competitiveness, More Single Market, More Resilience”. In her address, she doubled down on the importance of strengthening Europe\u2019s telecom landscape by boosting competitiveness, deepening Single Market integration, and enhancing resilience.
On the same day, EVP Virkkunen also met with the CEOs of European GSMA board members to exchange views on the Digital Networks Act and the future of connectivity in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EU Ministers at the GSMA Ministerial Programme<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year’s programme brought together EU Ministers and leading European telecommunications industry CEOs to engage in a forward-looking dialogue on the continent\u2019s digital future. The EU Ministerial roundtable focused on the Digital Networks Act (DNA) and served as a timely platform for discussing the implications of the DNA, exploring how this transformative legislation can help Europe build a resilient, competitive, and innovative connectivity landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EU Ministers also took the Ministerial Stage to discuss global and European topics such as tech sovereignty, global digital policy cooperation and public\u2013private collaboration to drive prosperity and progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch GSMA Ministerial Programme opening with Cyprus Minister Damianou and Mike Fries, CEO Liberty Global<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch Dr. Karsten Wildberger, Germany’s Federal Minister for Digital Affairs, opening “The Tech Sovereignty Trade-off” session<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European Parliament delegation in Barcelona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA and the European Internet Forum again created a tailor-made programme for Members of the European Parliament visiting MWC26. The activities began with a Welcome Reception for MEPs, EU institutions, and members, featuring insights from EU lawmakers and GSMA’s Laszlo Toth on the future of connectivity in Europe, with a special focus on upcoming policy initiatives such as the Digital Networks Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA also organised a high-level roundtable with Members of the European Parliament and representatives of mobile network operators to discuss the Digital Networks Act. Opened by GSMA’s Elsa Sependa, MEP del Castillo and Jakob Greiner, Chair of the GSMA Policy Group Europe, the roundtable allowed participants to explore in detail the future of Europe\u2019s digital connectivity and the Digital Networks Act proposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Members of the European Parliament also visited the MWC exhibition stands of mobile operators, European telecom vendors, and other industry players.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Digital Networks Act put to the test on the GSMA Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The proposed Digital Networks Act was among the most debated topics this year. To further examine the proposal GSMA’s Laszlo Toth brought together EU policymakers and industry leaders to explore whether the DNA in its current form truly delivers the scale, cohesion, and regulatory clarity Europe needs to stay competitive in the global digital economy. Panellists included Renate Nikolay, Deputy Director\u2011General at DG CONNECT in the European Commission; Micha\u0142 Kobosko, Member of the European Parliament; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; and Juan Montero Rodil, Chief Public Policy, Competition and Regulatory Officer at Telef\u00f3nica S.A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch “Europe’s DNA Test” Panel<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Competition in the Digital Age<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This session with Dominique Leroy, Member of the Board of Management and CEO Europe of Deutsche Telekom, Pietro Labriola, CEO & General Manager of TIM and Marcelo Benitez, CEO of Millicom, moderated by Professor Alexandre de Streel explored new thinking on mobile market structures, weighing the role of consolidation, regional variation, and investor confidence in building resilient, inclusive digital economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nWatch now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European regulators visit MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSMA welcomed European regulators at MWC26 and the Ministerial Programme. At the annual GSMA-BEREC Regulatory Roundtable, BEREC delegates, led by Marko Mi\u0161ma\u0161, BEREC Chair 2026, discussed with representatives of the European mobile operators the key issues facing connectivity in Europe. Participants exchanged views on the key aspects of the Digital Networks Act such as open internet, dispute resolution, regulatory simplification and spectrum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An MWC26 exhibition tour was also organised for the BEREC delegation as part of their visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Highlights from the Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
European policymakers and regulators were among the key voices shaping this year\u2019s GSMA Ministerial Programme. The agenda featured contributions from \u00d3scar L\u00f3pez Agueda, Spain\u2019s Minister for Digital and Civil Service Transformation; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; Wolfgang Kopf, Senior Vice President for Group Public and Regulatory Affairs at Deutsche Telekom; and Giacomo Robustelli, Vice President for European Affairs & Economic Studies at TIM, along with many other distinguished leaders who helped frame the discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ministerial pass holders can access all sessions on demand and continue exploring the insights shared throughout the event. Planning is already underway for next year’s Programme, taking place from 1-3 March 2027. Make sure to secure your place and be part of the conversations that will shape Europe\u2019s digital future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nGSMA Ministerial Programme<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Latest GSMA reports launched at MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Mobile Economy 2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The countdown begins. See you at MWC Barcelona 2027!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We hope your visit to Barcelona was inspiring and memorable. Thank you to all attendees, exhibitors, sponsors and partners, along with everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this event one of the standout tech and start-up gatherings of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mark your calendars for MWC Barcelona 2027<\/strong>, happening 1\u20134 March 2027<\/strong>. We can\u2019t wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable edition: more innovation, more connections, and even more reasons to be excited about the future!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":15572,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"","_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,28],"tags":[],"algolia_discover_type":[],"class_list":["post-15498","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\n
#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona - GSMA Europe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"GSMA Europe\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/gsma\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T11:20:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T14:32:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-27.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"mgalani@gsma.com\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@GSMA\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@GSMA\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"mgalani@gsma.com\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona - GSMA Europe","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/about-us\/regions\/europe\/general\/mwc26-key-european-moments-in-barcelona\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"#MWC26: Key European moments in Barcelona","og_description":"MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. 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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year’s programme brought together EU Ministers and leading European telecommunications industry CEOs to engage in a forward-looking dialogue on the continent\u2019s digital future. The EU Ministerial roundtable focused on the Digital Networks Act (DNA) and served as a timely platform for discussing the implications of the DNA, exploring how this transformative legislation can help Europe build a resilient, competitive, and innovative connectivity landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n EU Ministers also took the Ministerial Stage to discuss global and European topics such as tech sovereignty, global digital policy cooperation and public\u2013private collaboration to drive prosperity and progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The GSMA and the European Internet Forum again created a tailor-made programme for Members of the European Parliament visiting MWC26. The activities began with a Welcome Reception for MEPs, EU institutions, and members, featuring insights from EU lawmakers and GSMA’s Laszlo Toth on the future of connectivity in Europe, with a special focus on upcoming policy initiatives such as the Digital Networks Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The GSMA also organised a high-level roundtable with Members of the European Parliament and representatives of mobile network operators to discuss the Digital Networks Act. Opened by GSMA’s Elsa Sependa, MEP del Castillo and Jakob Greiner, Chair of the GSMA Policy Group Europe, the roundtable allowed participants to explore in detail the future of Europe\u2019s digital connectivity and the Digital Networks Act proposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Members of the European Parliament also visited the MWC exhibition stands of mobile operators, European telecom vendors, and other industry players.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The proposed Digital Networks Act was among the most debated topics this year. To further examine the proposal GSMA’s Laszlo Toth brought together EU policymakers and industry leaders to explore whether the DNA in its current form truly delivers the scale, cohesion, and regulatory clarity Europe needs to stay competitive in the global digital economy. Panellists included Renate Nikolay, Deputy Director\u2011General at DG CONNECT in the European Commission; Micha\u0142 Kobosko, Member of the European Parliament; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; and Juan Montero Rodil, Chief Public Policy, Competition and Regulatory Officer at Telef\u00f3nica S.A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n This session with Dominique Leroy, Member of the Board of Management and CEO Europe of Deutsche Telekom, Pietro Labriola, CEO & General Manager of TIM and Marcelo Benitez, CEO of Millicom, moderated by Professor Alexandre de Streel explored new thinking on mobile market structures, weighing the role of consolidation, regional variation, and investor confidence in building resilient, inclusive digital economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The GSMA welcomed European regulators at MWC26 and the Ministerial Programme. At the annual GSMA-BEREC Regulatory Roundtable, BEREC delegates, led by Marko Mi\u0161ma\u0161, BEREC Chair 2026, discussed with representatives of the European mobile operators the key issues facing connectivity in Europe. Participants exchanged views on the key aspects of the Digital Networks Act such as open internet, dispute resolution, regulatory simplification and spectrum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An MWC26 exhibition tour was also organised for the BEREC delegation as part of their visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n European policymakers and regulators were among the key voices shaping this year\u2019s GSMA Ministerial Programme. The agenda featured contributions from \u00d3scar L\u00f3pez Agueda, Spain\u2019s Minister for Digital and Civil Service Transformation; Joakim Reiter, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer at Vodafone; Wolfgang Kopf, Senior Vice President for Group Public and Regulatory Affairs at Deutsche Telekom; and Giacomo Robustelli, Vice President for European Affairs & Economic Studies at TIM, along with many other distinguished leaders who helped frame the discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ministerial pass holders can access all sessions on demand and continue exploring the insights shared throughout the event. Planning is already underway for next year’s Programme, taking place from 1-3 March 2027. Make sure to secure your place and be part of the conversations that will shape Europe\u2019s digital future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Mobile Economy 2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n We hope your visit to Barcelona was inspiring and memorable. Thank you to all attendees, exhibitors, sponsors and partners, along with everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this event one of the standout tech and start-up gatherings of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mark your calendars for MWC Barcelona 2027<\/strong>, happening 1\u20134 March 2027<\/strong>. We can\u2019t wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable edition: more innovation, more connections, and even more reasons to be excited about the future!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" MWC26, the world\u2019s largest and most influential connectivity event, this year celebrated 20 years in Barcelona, bringing together exhibitors, thought leaders, startups, and policymakers all under one roof. Despite global travel disruptions, it welcomed nearly 105,000 attendees from 207 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via. The event brought together over 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":15572,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"","_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,28],"tags":[],"algolia_discover_type":[],"class_list":["post-15498","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nEuropean Parliament delegation in Barcelona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nDigital Networks Act put to the test on the GSMA Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nCompetition in the Digital Age<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nEuropean regulators visit MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHighlights from the Ministerial Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nLatest GSMA reports launched at MWC26<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The countdown begins. See you at MWC Barcelona 2027!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n