The Council of Europe adopts guidelines on net neutrality

On 13 January 2016, the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe (CoE) adopted a Recommendation on protecting and promoting the right to freedom of expression and the right to private life with regard to network neutrality. The recommendation, addressed to CoE member states, contains a number of guidelines on net neutrality. As a general principles, it is underlined that ‘Internet users’ right to receive and impart information should not be restricted by means of blocking, slowing down, degrading or discriminating Internet traffic associated with particular content, services, applications or devices, or traffic associated with services provided on the basis of exclusive arrangements or tariffs.’ Specific guidelines are given in relation to: equal treatment of Internet traffic, pluralism and diversity of information, privacy, transparency and accountability.