Commission seeks simpler, harmonised telecom rules

While EU member states diverge on telecom policy, the European Commission is pushing for stronger, more unified regulation to improve investment and meet 2030 connectivity targets.
EU seeks to move away from directives and towards regulations for 5G telecom amendments

EU Tech Commissioner Henna Virkkunen has voiced support for using a Regulation, rather than a Directive, in the upcoming Digital Networks Act.

She says this would ensure consistent implementation across all member states, avoiding the patchwork seen under current telecom rules.

Virkkunen also hinted at easing merger rules and reducing ex-ante regulation within the existing framework, the European Electronic Communications Code.

These changes, she noted, could encourage investment and help the EU meet its goal of full 5G and fibre coverage by 2030.

She criticised slow national efforts to phase out high-risk Chinese components from 5G networks, calling for stronger action.

Her stance follows pressure from MEPs concerned about ongoing cybersecurity risks and lack of enforcement.

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