The case for repealing the EU’s telecommunications legislation

Abstract

Purpose – This purpose of this article is to argue for repealing the bulk of the EU’s telecoms regulatory structure because the package’s work is done. Design/methodology/approach – The views expressed in this paper are based on the author’s extensive experience in the telecoms, media and Internet sectors. Findings – The paper finds that competition is strong and sustainable; that many of the key dynamics in the sector are driven by the broader digital economy and thus beyond the scrutiny of sector regulators; and that regulation is being capitalised into the political economy, distorting incentives to the detriment of European consumers. Originality/value – The paper contributes to the debate over the future direction of regulation in European telecommunications.