Europe is at a crossroads. With 5G comes an opportunity to empower citizens and businesses using widespread ultra-fast connectivity. The mobile industry is ready to step up and deliver 5G and the Gigabit Society. But they can’t do it on their own. Ambitious policy reform will help enable both.

The rapid spread of mobile technology together with the convergence of digital technologies and services has created huge growth and opportunity.  Advanced applications and new ways of communicating creates a truly connected society, radically impacting the way in which we use technology.

The proposed Electronic Communications Code is an opportunity to establish forward-thinking rules that protect consumers and enhance the status of Europe as a location for long-term investment and innovation.

To help create the Gigabit Society, the GSMA has three broad asks

They GSMA’s asks are:

– Regulation based on function rather than structure – look at what is being provided rather than who is providing it

– Regulation should not be set in stone – it should be dynamic and flexible

– New thinking – regulators should regulate only when the benefits exceed the cost

For the code to become a success, European policy makers and Brussels should also pay special attention to spectrum. Fair and transparent spectrum regulation creates an environment that is conducive to investment, and ensure the expansion of next-generation mobile networks and services. This includes:

– Greater certainty and predictability over future rights of use

– Greater consistency among Member States over approaches to awards

– The right balance between licensed spectrum and general authorisations, and between exclusive and shared

– Predictable license conditions

– Spectrum fees limited to ensuring efficient and effective use, and reflecting extended coverage commitments

– Freedom to compete and differentiate through voluntary sharing and under competition law