What the World Cup meant for broadband networks

By Alessandro Gropelli, ETNO

It was November 2022 when Qatar suddenly topped the list of the world’s fastest mobile internet speeds. Last year’s FIFA tournament was about sports as well as a necessary democratic debate on human rights in the host country.

However, on a less controversial level, internet geeks might wonder how it impacted broadband networks. Per Ookla, “Qatar rocketed to first place on the Speedtest Global Index with a median download speed of 176.18 Mbps in November 2022”. The country had a good reason for heavily investing in networks: last year’s World Cup has eventually turned into a massive testbed for the future of streaming and network resilience.

KTOA and ETNO sign Memorandum of Understanding

Barcelona, 28 February 2023 – Today, the Korea Telecommunications Operators Association (KTOA) signed a「Memorandum of Understanding between Korea and Europe」with ETNO (the European Telecommunications Network Operators' Association) at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, ​​Spain. 

ETNO welcomes the EU Consultation and the Connectivity Package

Brussels, 23 February 2023 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the European Commission’s work to speed up roll-out of 5G and fibre networks.

9 questions and answers on the “fair contribution’’ debate

In the past months, lobbying groups linked to major tech companies promoted a campaign against the “fair contribution” debate. Some of their sponsored content and targeted advertising on the issue included misrepresentations of the issue and false claims on our position. Here is our viewpoint.

Roaming for Ukraine: European operators renew support to keep Ukrainian refugees connected

Brussels, 3 February 2023 - ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, signed a new statement to prolong the voluntary measures that have been supporting Ukrainian refugees to have affordable access to connectivity, use roaming at discounted prices or free of charge, and make international calls at lower rates.

New Study: Despite record investment, Europe stays behind on gigabit connectivity objectives

Brussels, 1 February 2023 – Europe has reached record levels of telecom investment, while progressing on both 5G and FTTH coverage. Despite this, new estimates show that the EU risks falling short of its “gigabit for all by 2030” target by 10%. These are some highlights from the “State of Digital Communications 2023” report presented today by ETNO, Europe’s leading telecoms association, based on research by leading research firm Analysys Mason. It comes as the European Commission is expected to launch a public consultation on the future of the telecom sector and its ability to invest in new networks.

ETNO holds General Assembly, approves strategic orientation and governance for 2023

Skopje (North Macedonia), 27 October 2022 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, met today in Skopje for its annual General Assembly. Members and observers approved ETNO’s annual strategy for 2023 as well as a series of governance decisions. As per ETNO statutes, the event was hosted on a rotating basis by leading North Macedonian telecom operator Makedonski Telekom.

ETNO presents new study on effects of the EU Data Act on the telecom sector

Brussels, 25 October 2022 – As European legislators make progress on the landmark EU Data Act, a new study commissioned by ETNO and authored by LE Europe brings a fresh perspective on the impact of the draft regulation on European telecom operators and their business models.

ETNO note on BEREC’s preliminary assessment

Brussels, 11 October 2022 – ETNO and its members are working to provide additional fact-based evidence for the upcoming European Commission consultation. The debate has moved beyond industry proposals and beyond Europe, as US and Asian regulators are already considering the contribution of tech giants to network costs.

CEO statement on the role of connectivity in addressing current EU challenges

Click here to read a statement signed by 17 telecom CEOs from a diverse group of European telecom operators.

Samsung joins ETNO

Brussels, 26 July 2022 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is proud to announce that Samsung Electronics is joining as an Observer Member, effective July 2022.

Observer Members are market leaders in digital products, services and solutions that support the growth of Europe’s connectivity ecosystem. Observers contribute to ETNO mainly through knowledge-exchange and policy discussions within our thematic Working Groups.

As an innovation driver in the mobile broadband technologies, Samsung Electronics Networks stands for open, interoperable and secure mobile broadband infrastructure. We are committed to contribute with our expertise in 5G especially in regards to virtualisation of RAN/ORAN as well concepts to drive mobile broadband coverage in Europe via strategic spectrum management. Furthermore we are keen to serve with pragmatic contribution to resilient and supply chain management.

Click here to learn more about the ETNO’s Members and Observers.

ETNO visits Washington DC, supports EU-US dialogue

Brussels, 25 July 2022 - A delegation from the ETNO Secretariat and Executive Board has attended the Transatlantic Policy Network week in Washington DC (18-21 July).

ETNO and UNI Europa ICTS consolidate the findings of the 2-year social dialogue project on Digital Upskilling for All

Brussels, 19 July 2022 - The European social partners for the telecommunications sector – UNI Europa ICTS, the European trade union federation for service workers, and ETNO, the European Telecommunication Network Operators’ Association, have concluded the two-year social dialogue project called “Digital Upskilling for All!” (DUFA!).

Czech Presidency of the EU: a view from telecom operators

20 July, 2022

By Lise Fuhr, Director General, ETNO

Joint EU and National telecom sector statement on “fair contribution”

Brussels, 18 July 2022 – EU and national associations AOMR (RO), APMS (CZ), AssoTelecomunicazioni (IT), ATI (BG), DigitalES (SP), ETNO (EU), Fédération Française des Télécoms (FR), the GSMA Europe (EU), and *Internetoffensive Österreich (Austria) released the following Joint Statement at the start of the Czech Presidency of the EU:

Telecom Industry Applauds EU Institutions for New Platform Rulebooks

The European telecommunications industry welcomes the European Parliament’s adoption of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA), resulting from the co-legislators’ provisional agreements earlier this year. Today’s vote confirms Europe’s political commitment and vision to shape the societal and economic dynamics of digital platform ecosystems in line with its value system.

8 common questions on the “fair contribution” debate

By Maarit Palovirta, Senior Director Regulatory Affairs, ETNO

Since the publication of the EU Digital Decade principles in January, a lively debate has been developing on whether tech giants are contributing enough to the network costs they generate. This is very relevant to the achievement of the EU Digital Decade targets, which foresee full 5G and gigabit coverage by 2030.

In this context, policymakers and stakeholders have spoken up in the media, public debates and ETNO has published a report by Axon Partners on the EU Internet Ecosystem. As the debate continues, I would like to address what we see at the top eight questions being raised in the exchanges with stakeholders. This is our contribution, from a telecoms standpoint, to clarify what the “fair contribution” concept is and is not about.

Surge in inflation requires adjustments in WACC estimates for telco regulation

The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) is a key parameter in regulatory cost control procedures and thus for setting prices for legacy services (copper). With surging inflation operators will be faced with increasing interest rates leading to increased cost of capital. However, due to backward looking provisions of the European Commission “WACC-Notice” of 2019, National Regulatory Authorities (NRA) would be forced to decrease their regulatory WACC. We would like to stress that this paper only concerns WACC, but in addition, inflation has an impact on other underlying wholesale costs which are not captured by WACC (e.g. OPEX related costs).

Deep Dive on Digital Upskilling Best Practices to increase gender diversity in the telecom workforce

On 25 February, the social partners from the EU telecom sector, ETNO and UNI Europa, organised a virtual round table conference: Deep Dive on Digital UpskillingBest Practices to increase gender diversity of telecom workforce.  

Europe’s Digital Decade plans, gigabit networks roll-out and the fair contribution debate

Brussels, 19 May 2022 –Europe has set very ambitious connectivity targets and aims at connecting all Europeans to 5G and fibre networks by 2030. In order to achieve such targets, the EU must accelerate the pace of roll-out and ensure that enough financial resources are available for to the telecom sector to do so.

Europe’s Internet ecosystem: A 72bn boost to GDP and 840k new jobs are within reach if gaps in network costs are tackled

Brussels, 2 May 2022 – Today, tech giants do not contribute a fair share to the deployment of telecom networks, while generating network-related costs of tens of billion euros. This weakens Europe’s capacity to swiftly achieve connectivity targets. Addressing this through policy action could unlock socio-economic benefits for Europe, including €72bn GDP growth, an additional 840k jobs in 2025 and cuts to CO₂ emissions.

ETNO supports EU-Ukraine Operators’ Statement on connectivity for Ukrainian refugees

Brussels, 8 April 2022 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is proud to support today’s “Joint Statement by EU and Ukrainian Operators on connectivity in support of refugees from Ukraine”. 

ETNO CEOs meet EVP Vestager

Brussels, 29.3.2022 – A group of CEOs from ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has met today with European Commission Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager.

European telcos helping Ukrainians

European telecom operators have rolled out voluntary measures to help Ukrainian refugees and expats in Europe. These include actions on free/reduced calls and SMSs in 31 countries, free/reduced outbound roaming in 29 countries and SIM cards for refugees in 21 countries.

Cyber-resilience of telecom networks: ETNO calls for stronger European coordination at a delicate time

Brussels, 9 March 2022 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the ministerial debate on the cyber-resilience of European communications networks promoted by the French Presidency of the Council and applauds the joint call to reinforce the EU’s cybersecurity capabilities signed in Nevers today.

International Women’s Day in Times of Change: Resilient, Convergent, Heroic

8 March, 2022

By Lise Fuhr, Director General, ETNO

This year’s International Women’s day will be an important page in history books. With an ongoing pandemic and the war in Ukraine, its celebratory appetite has been lost. Nevertheless, we need to stay strong, united and constructive. We need to focus on positive steps in closing the European digital gap while paying homage to heroic women going through tough times.

ETNO joins WTSA, supports open and interoperable internet protocols at a delicate time

Geneva, 2 March 2022 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is attending the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-20), a milestone event for the international telecommunications community.

European telecom companies take action to support Ukrainian people

Brussels, 28 February 2022 – Access to communications is most crucial during times of crisis. As the Ukrainian people endure their harshest proof, European telecommunication companies are rolling out measures to ease communications and support people in distress.

EU telecoms support competitive data and cloud markets, call for innovation-conducive rules in the Data Act

Brussels, 24 February 2022 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, supports the objective of fostering data sharing in the single market that underlies the proposed Data Act regulation issued by the European Commission yesterday. Very-high-speed connectivity will enable the rapid growth of the Internet of Things, and new streams of data coming from millions of sensors connected over 5G will need to be exploited.

Digital matters: empowering our society

By Lise Fuhr, Director General, ETNO

Digital transformation started decades ago. Over the years technology has become an inevitable part of our daily lives and its utility to society and economy is undeniable. The experience of the past two years reminded us all that the future is connected. This decade is digital.

Europe doubles 5G connections and passes 50% mark on FTTH, but still lags global peers

Brussels, 2.2.2022 – As Europe works to strengthen economic growth through its strategic sectors, a new report shows that most Europeans have now access to a 5G and FTTH network. However, if compared with global peers, Europe is trailing in terms of roll-out, investment and financial strength of its telecom sector. These are some of the findings of the “State of Digital Communications” Report, launched by telecom association ETNO and prepared by research firm Analysys Mason.

The European Green Digital Coalition gets a boost by top Associations

Laying the foundational work for the digital and green twin transitions

Brussels, January 24, 2022 – Leading associations Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI), European DIGITAL SME Alliance, DIGITALEUROPE, ETNO, GSMA are pleased to announce that they were awarded by European Commission the European Parliament Pilot project. These associations will work with the European Green Digital Coalition (EGDC) to reach the objectives of the EGDC founding members’ Declaration.

Accelerating fibre and 5G roll-out: ETNO unveils new technical and regulatory reports

Brussels, 21 January 2022 – ETNO, the association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has unveiled today two major reports with the state-of-the-art thinking on investment in Very High-Capacity Networks. The reports are both independent and they have both been prepared for – and fully funded by – ETNO.

Facts about 5G and aviation in Europe

ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is following the debate on potential coexistence issues between certain aircraft systems and 5G deployment, which was initiated in the United States.

We have therefore gathered some facts that respond to potential doubts or questions regarding the European situation:

EU Cyber Directive Moves Ahead, But Falls Short of Securing the ICT Supply Chain

Brussels, 3 December 2021 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, acknowledges progress made by EU governments with the proposed measures for a high common level of cybersecurity of networks and information systems (‘NIS 2’ Directive). The General Approach endorsed at the Telecommunications Council today opens the door to inter-institutional discussions with the European Parliament, in view of adopting rules that bolster resilience of critical socioeconomic sectors in the internal market.

Joint CEO Statement: Europe needs to translate its digital ambitions into concrete actions

We, the CEOs of Europe’s leading telecommunication companies, call on EU policymakers to closely align Europe’s digital ambitions with a supportive policy and regulatory ecosystem.

European Telecom Sector Welcomes Landmark Progress on Digital Service Regulation

Brussels, 25 November 2021 – The European telecommunications industry applauds EU legislators for making progress this week on two key regulatory initiatives that have the potential to reshape the socioeconomic dynamics of digital platform ecosystems.

The recent European Parliament’s vote on the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and today, the Council’s General Approach, pave the way for inter-institutional discussions and final approval of this major piece of legislation, throughout next year.

Deep Dive on Digital Upskilling Best Practices to increase the employability of the ageing workforce in the Telecom sector

The social partners from the EU telecom sector, ETNO and UNI Europa, organised a virtual round table conference titled Deep Dive on Digital UpskillingBest Practices to increase the employability of the ageing workforce in the Telecom sector. The event was held on 3 June 2021.

ETNO holds virtual General Assembly, approves Strategy and Governance for 2022

“A new phase for our sector: we are now a strategic partner for EU institutions and governments”

Brussels, 21 October 2021 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has successfully completed its General Assembly, which took place virtually today.

The case for a stronger EU - US partnership

By Lise Fuhr, Director General at ETNO and Wassim Chourbaji, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs Europe, Middle East and North Africa at Qualcomm.

2021 has marked a shift in EU - US technology relations. Despite geopolitical headwinds, there is a stronger spirit of collaboration: on everything from semiconductors to automotive, from 5G to green tech. And the launch this autumn of the new Trade & Technology Council (TTC) will bring Europe and the US closer to strategic alignment.

5G disinformation: EU associations go local to spotlight opportunities, debunk myths

Brussels, 21 September 2021 – Since the coronavirus hit Europe in early 2020, 5G disinformation spreading online has provoked more than 288 arson attacks against antennas as well as several episodes of violence against telecom workers across 13 European countries, including 30 attacks in the first three months of this year.

EU telecoms welcome 2030 Policy Programme, call for strong focus on 5G and innovation

Brussels, 15 September 2021 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has today welcomed the proposal for a “2030 Policy Programme – Path to the Digital Decade” unveiled by the European Commission. As EU institutions move to advancing the proposal, EU telecom operators call for a strong prioritization of 5G investment and the development of European infrastructures and services.

5 tech things not to forget about

By Lise Fuhr, Director General, ETNO

A new, heated tech policy autumn is shaping up also this year. As government, industry and civil society leaders get back to their desks, there are at least five tech policy debates we should not forget about.

Let me be clear: I think that the European Commission got the political priorities right. Their focus is on strengthening Europe’s technology sectors, while addressing the socio-economic issues arising from the transition to a digital-first world. From addressing the power of big tech corporations to fighting disinformation and leading in semiconductors, Europe’s political leaders are pursuing a clear industrial and geopolitical strategy for the first time in many decades.

Why ICT is the real (green) deal for Europe

The case for European tech confidence on climate change

By Luis Neves and Alessandro Gropelli*

Most of us reacted with shock when reading the latest scientific evidence on climate in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, which rang the alarm bell on faster global warming and irreversible rise in sea levels. We should not be shocked, in fact, as all the science behind the August 2021 report is known for many years. Most of us were just distracted.

ETNO and GSMA call for a more equitable and balanced approach towards taxation of the telecommunications sector under the new tax rules proposed by OECD/G20, August 2021

ETNO, GSMA and their members welcome the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework landmark agreement for taxation of the digitalizing economy. However, the industry is concerned that the current proposal fails to recognise the essential contribution of the telecommunications sector to the world’s economies and its key features with respect to investment, tax and regulatory regimes. Moreover, the framework has shifted from its original purpose of levying taxes on digital services in jurisdictions where the customer resides to a broad application that potentially subjects large multinationals within the telecommunications industry, who already pay their fair share of taxes, to double taxation. 

ETNO welcomes EU climate leadership, calls for full recognition of ICT’s enabling potential

Brussels, 14 July 2021 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the leadership of the European Union in fighting climate change.

Transatlantic Tech Relations: Joint Statement of the Telecom Industry

Brussels, Washington D.C., 16 June 2021 – ETNO and USTelecom – The Broadband Association, the leading trade associations for telecom operators and broadband providers in the EU and the U.S. respectively, welcome the strengthening of the transatlantic dialogue on industrial and policy approaches to technology.

Digital Upskilling for All: improving gender diversity of telecom workforce

On 25 February, the social partners from the EU telecom sector, ETNO and UNI Europa, organized a virtual round table conference: Deep Dive on Digital Upskilling Best Practices to increase gender diversity of telecom workforce.  

The meeting was part of a joint ETNO-UNI Europa social dialogue Project funded with the financial support of the EU commission. 52 representatives from 24 companies/organizations participated in the full day event and were joined by Mercer Consulting, who helped with the preparation of the digital round table. The meeting was translated simultaneously from English into 4 languages (French, Portuguese, Polish and Spanish) by Oluseyi. 

Connectivity and Beyond: How Telcos Can Accelerate a Digital Future For All

Europe can create 2.4 million new jobs by leveraging a €300bn digital network investment

Brussels, 25 March 2021 – Europe can create 2.4 million new jobs within the next four years through digital transformation, while boosting economic growth and accelerating green transformation. This will require a €300bn effort in terms of telecoms network investment, with additional action required to stimulate demand and digital upskilling. These are the key findings of the new report “Connectivity and Beyond: How Telcos Can Accelerate a Digital Future For All”, which was released today by Europe’s leading telecoms association ETNO and prepared by global management consulting firm BCG.

Joint Statement by ETNO and the GSMA on the European Green Digital Coalition

Telecom CEOs join European Green Digital Coalition, commit to green and digital transformation

Brussels, 19 March 2021 – Today, 13 European telecom CEOs became founding members of the European Green Digital Coalition, and pledged their companies would be climate neutral by 2040 at the latest to accelerate the European Commission’s green ambitions.

Women in tech: #IChooseToChallenge the status quo

By Lise Fuhr, Director General, ETNO

Today is about celebrating women in all regions of the world. The International Women’s Day is a reminder that opportunity must be equally accessible to all of us, irrespective of gender. A digital and analogue society in which we are fairly represented is the first step towards inclusion. From an economic standpoint, it will also ignite growth. The topic of this year’s March 8 celebrations is #IChooseToChallenge, inviting women all around the world to challenge the status quo. This is why, as ETNO’s Director General, I choose to challenge the lack of women in tech.

Supply chain accountability: a priority for Europe’s cybersecurity policy

By Paolo Grassia, Director of Policy Affairs, ETNO

It is not an understatement to say that the SolarWinds hack is, in Microsoft President Brad Smith’s words, “the largest and most sophisticated attack the world has ever seen”. At least 18.000 customers of software company SolarWinds were affected by a backdoor that allowed state-sponsored hackers to compromise U.S. government agencies, leading technology firms, and other notable targets worldwide. The full extent of the hacking campaign is still being investigated, and its consequences are still unravelling.

ePrivacy: European telcos support a strong alignment with GDPR

This statement has been released by ETNO and by the GSMA

Brussels, 10 February 2021 – Europe’s telecommunication industry is fully committed to the principle of confidential communications and supports the Continent’s ambition to lead the data economy. European citizens deserve access to digital services that are trustworthy and based on European values.

The telecommunications sector recognises the significant efforts undertaken by the Portuguese Presidency, which led to an agreement at this week’s COREPER. The introduction of the principle of compatible further processing of metadata, and of the risk-based approach, are important steps in the right direction when it comes to aligning the ePrivacy with the GDPR.

A telecoms viewpoint on the EU-U.K. agreement

ETNO welcomes the achievement of the EU-U.K. Trade and Cooperation Agreement. An agreement on the future relationship between the U.K. and the European Union is of great importance to ETNO members and the whole telecommunication industry. Telecom network operators active in the U.K. are pan-European operators. Furthermore, in a time of deep transformations for telecommunications and digital markets overall, the EU and U.K. remain intrinsically connected as they face the same challenges and opportunities.

New Report: Europe behind on key digital metrics, telcos essential to achieve leadership

Brussels, 29 January 2021 – At a time in which the EU is striving for digital sovereignty, fresh data shows that Europe is trailing global peers on key network roll-out and digital investment metrics, including on 5G, AI and network investment. Despite this, Europe shows progress with respect to last year, with more people covered by 5G, innovative services on the rise and the green transition picking up speed. These are some of the key findings of the 2021 “State of Digital Communications” Report, launched today by ETNO, Europe’s leading telecoms association, and prepared by leading research firm Analysys Mason.

Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act: Statement of the European telecoms industry

Brussels, 15 December 2020 – The European telecommunications industry welcomes today’s announcements by the European Commission. We are optimistic that the EU can set the global standard for competitive, non-discriminatory, responsible and fair digital markets with today’s publication of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA). The European Union has a leadership opportunity to address problematic digital platform markets while making our societies more inclusive, with benefits for European citizens and companies of all sizes.

EU telcos: international connectivity can be a booster for Europe’s digital leadership

Brussels, 10 December 2020 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the renewed focus on international connectivity, as per today’s announcement by Minister Pedro Nuno Santos at the Telecommunications Council, in the context of the upcoming Portuguese Presidency of the EU.

The Telecom Social Dialogue Committee Joint Declaration on Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence: a blueprint for unions and telecom companies

Technology and digital innovation have drastically transformed work and employment in unprecedented ways. Though they are not new as such, AI technologies have gained new momentum and, together with big data and robotics, they have rapidly evolved and changed the way we work. These technologies are expected to significantly impact the labour market of the future, particularly as traditional jobs and tasks transform or disappear, and new ones emerge.

In defence of the multistakeholder model

By Ross Creelman, Public Policy Officer, ETNO

Seventy-five years of the United Nations, fifteen years of the Internet Governance Forum… plenty of reason to celebrate, but this year, it all had to happen virtually. In the shadow of a global pandemic, we all retreated to our homes, leaving offices, conference centres, airports empty. But perhaps this, bizarrely, is the strongest case for an open internet, powered by global standards and protocols and – crucially – with everyone around the table.

Delivering A Green And Digital Recovery Through Connectivity

Summary & main takeaways

Lise Fuhr, ETNO Director General pointed that there can be no green transition without digitalisation, while digitalisation cannot happen unless it is green. She also highlighted that companies are striving to eliminate their own carbon footprint, but also working to enable their clients to do the same. This is why telcos ecological challenge is so important: it is not just about their green transition, but about making wider ecosystems more sustainable.

ETNO joins GAIA-X Association, calls for EU leadership in the data economy

ETNO joins GAIA-X Association, calls for EU leadership in the data economy

Brussels, 18 November 2020 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom companies, is proud to announce that it has become a member of GAIA-X, the project to foster open and transparent European data infrastructure.

Overcoming Europe’s data inferiority complex: why ePrivacy must be reformed

By Lise Fuhr and Daniel Pataki

The European Union has a data inferiority complex. This risks undermining the bloc’s digital sovereignty goals and could hamper the long-term strategic interests of Europe’s citizens and businesses. The new ePrivacy Regulation proposal from the German presidency of the European Council would further aggravate the situation. Let us explain why.

Joint Telecoms Industry Statement on the ePrivacy Regulation

The following Joint Statement by ETNO and the GSMA has been sent to EU national ministries and to the Member States’ Permanent Representations to the EU.

ETNO holds virtual General Assembly, approves Strategy and Governance for 2021

Brussels, 28 October 2020 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has successfully completed its General Assembly, which took place virtually during the month of October 2020. This is the first time, since ETNO was founded in 1992, that a General Assembly takes place only online, due to the current health situation.

5G: a new world, not a new word

By Gabriel Daia, Digital Marketing Manager, ETNO

The year of 2020 has seen 5G roll-out and uptake on the rise in Europe, being deployed commercially in different corners of the continent. 5G should not be a new word to you by now. Wherever you are reading this from, 5G related information is very likely to have been delivered to you across a diverse range of channels: according to our latest survey on 5G sentiment across Europe, 96% of Europeans are aware of 5G. But what is 5G in concrete terms and what can it do for you and society? 

European telcos welcome Joint EU Member States Declaration on Cloud

Brussels, 15 October 2020 – ETNO, the association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes today’s Joint Member States Declaration on Cloud. This is an important milestone towards a stronger European commitment for deploying next generation cloud infrastructure and services.

New 5G Survey: Europeans are positive, but disinformation looms and citizens call for action

Brussels, 2 October 2020 – Europeans are positive about 5G, they believe it will improve their user experience and intend to deploy it to empower their own business. However, there is evidence that disinformation is having some traction and that citizens are eager to see more, and better, communication on 5G from their governments. ETNO, Europe’s leading telecoms association, has unveiled today a new pan-European 5G sentiment survey by leading global market research consultant IPSOS. The survey is based on interviews with over 7.000 citizens across 23 European countries, including major markets such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the UK.

Building Next Generation Connectivity for Europe The Future Is Now

By Maarit Palovirta, Director of Regulatory Affairs, ETNO

Following a lively couple of weeks in tech policy with headlines full of promise, it is an opportune moment to take stock of where we are in terms of delivering faster and better digital communication services to European users.

ETNO - GSMA Position Paper on a New Competition Tool

ETNO and GSMA associations, which represent the vast majority of telecom operators in the European Union, welcome the opportunity to provide input to DG Competition on the possibility to introduce a New Competition Tool (NCT). In summary, GSMA & ETNO European mobile and fixed telecom operator’s position on the matter and response to the Commission’s Inception Impact Assessment and questionnaire is as follows:

DSA: ETNO and GSMA unveil joint telecom sector position

Telcos support the creation of a Digital Services Act for fairer tech markets

The DSA has the potential “to inspire a new global approach to digital markets”, ETNO and the GSMA wrote today in a joint paper. “The future of our democracies, societies and economies depends on digital ecosystems that are open, fair, competitive, and respectful of the rule of law”, they added.

Joint statement on the role of the telecoms sector in accelerating the European recovery

2 July 2020, Brussels – The European telecommunications industry stands ready to work with EU institutions, national governments and the broader stakeholders’ community to lift the Continent out of this recession. As the German Presidency of the EU takes over, we welcome the prioritisation of digital technology as a major lever for a strong and sustainable recovery. 

5G and us: A European story

What do you want from your 5G? What will be the benefits to you and society? When will you meet 5G?  Much has been said about the transformative potential of 5G over the past few years, but few of us can name any concrete examples of applications that can make use of the capabilities 5G has to offer.

ETNO unveils European telecoms contribution to EU Green Deal debate

ETNO has today published its contribution to one of the key policy initiatives of President von der Leyen’s European Commission: the EU Green Deal. The key message of ETNO’s Policy Paper is that high-quality telecom networks and services are not only the basis for digitalising Europe, but also a key catalyst for reaching ambitious climate targets. Europe’s green and digital objectives are not only compatible, but intimately connected: only by scaling up Europe’s action in the field of digitalisation, can we achieve the climate targets.

ETNO policy position on the European strategy for data

Executive Summary

This paper outlines ETNO’s views on the European Data Strategy, released by the Commission on 19 February 2020.  The document focuses on the Strategy’s approach to data access and sharing in the business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) contexts, also including B2B competition issues linked to exclusive data access. Furthermore, we elaborate on investment in data infrastructures, with emphasis on a European cloud ecosystem.

Building a digitally-enabled recovery

Executive Summary

This paper offers unique insights on the impact of the coronavirus crisis on Europe’s top tech business: the telecom sector[1]. As we collectively work to re-design Europe’s vision and strategic plans for the coming years, ETNO puts forward facts, figures, analysis and ideas on how to reboot the EU socio-economic engine by leveraging telecom networks and digital services.

UNI Europa ICTS and ETNO Begin a 2-Year Social Dialogue Project on Digital Upskilling for All

Brussels, 26 May 2020 – The European social partners for the telecommunications sector – UNI Europa ICTS, the European trade union federation for service workers, and ETNO, the European Telecommunication Network Operators’ Association – have concluded the call for tender and kicked-off the “Digital Upskilling for All!” project (DUFA!).

Joint Statement of the UNI Europa ICTS and the Telecom Industry Representatives

Attacks against telecom employees must stop now

Brussels, 19 May 2020 – The European trade union federation representing telecom workers, UNI Europa ICTS, and the Associations representing the telecoms industry, ETNO and the GSMA, have joined forces to call for swift Institutional action to stop attacks against telecom employees and to promote correct information on mobile technology while also taking steps to minimise the spread of misinformation that encourages attacks against either the workers or the infrastructure.

Going the Extra Mile to Strengthen Europe’s Digital Foundations

By Maarit Palovirta, Director of Regulatory Affairs

Recent weeks have shown how crucial ubiquitous and well-functioning digital communications networks are to ensure public services, business operations and social interactions in a time of crisis. While the current situation has had a profound impact on our lives, many professionals continue to work remotely; pupils attend classes virtually; and necessary goods and services remain accessible online.

Statement of the Social Partners in the European Telecom Sector on the COVID-19 Emergency

9 April 2020

The European social partners for the telecommunications sector – UNI Europa ICTS and ETNO, the European Telecommunication Network Operators’ Association – are fully committed to sustaining and supporting the European society and economy during this global pandemic.

FAQs on COVID-19, telecoms and network data

By Alessandro Gropelli and Paolo Grassia

Brussels, 30 March 2020 – Europe is in the midst of an unprecedented health crisis. Epidemiologists, virologists and policymakers in the healthcare sector have called for the help of industry and civil society to slow the spread, fight the disease and save lives. The European telecoms sector, like many others, has given a strong and swift response. Here some Frequently Asked Questions on what telecom companies are doing and what it means for citizens.

EU telcos support new Industrial Strategy, call for Member States to step up budgetary ambition

Brussels, 10 March 2020 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the European Commission’s “Industrial Strategy” presented today. The Strategy recognises that a change of gear is needed in order to achieve global leadership through widespread digitisation of our rich and diverse industrial base. 5G, fibre networks and data-based services are firmly recognised as a major enabler of Europe’s industrial value-chains, including those of strategic importance.

Digital Upskilling For All: Tender specifications for subcontracting external expertise

Project title and number:
Digital Upskilling For All! - VS/2020/0011

1. Background

Europe’s unapologetic data ambition: a note from EU telcos

By Paolo Grassia, ETNO Director of Public Policy

Digital transformation has led to data becoming a key asset, but also a production factor in its own right. Consumers enjoy a wealth of new data-based services and Europe’s industrial base is trying to catch the wave and increase its global competitiveness. The European Commission has recognised this trend and, this week, it presented an ambitious “Communication on a European Data Strategy”, which was welcomed by ETNO. Telecom companies will have a major role in delivering on Europe’s data ambitions, but also in promoting a trust-based model for the data economy. Here are our views.

EU telcos welcome the European Commission approach to digital leadership, stress the role of 5G and fibre networks

Brussels, 19 February 2020 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom companies, welcomes the fresh approach to digital leadership enshrined in the “Shaping Europe’s digital future” Strategy, in the “Communication on a European Data Strategy” and in the “White Paper on Artificial Intelligence”, which were unveiled today by the European Commission.

European telcos support harmonised and fact-based EU rules on 5G security

Brussels, 29 January 2020 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, supports a harmonised EU approach to 5G security. Security is at the heart of our on-going work to deploy resilient 5G infrastructure across European territories. We therefore welcome today’s publication of the “5G Security Toolbox”, presented by EU Member States with ENISA and the European Commission.

EU connectivity is becoming faster and more intelligent, but more investment is needed

Brussels, 28 January 2020 – 5G and fibre are becoming a reality in Europe and there is a major opportunity for launching European AI and data-based services. Telcos will be a major lever for growth and inclusion across the digital ecosystem. However, telecom markets remain relatively weak in Europe, which means that policy action is needed to boost investment in networks and make the Continent globally competitive. These are some of the key findings of the 2020 “State of Digital Communications” Report, launched today by ETNO, Europe’s leading telecoms association, and prepared by leading research firm Analysys Mason.

Leading telecom CEOs meet with EVP Vestager

Brussels, 2 December 2019 – A delegation of CEOs from ETNO, the association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has met today with Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President, Europe fit for the Digital Age. The delegation included: Tim Hoettges, Deutsche Telekom; Stephane Richard, Orange; Thomas Arnolder, Telekom Austria; Salvatore Rossi, TIM; Alexandre Fonseca, Altice Portugal; as well as the Chairman of ETNO, Steven Tas, the Director General of ETNO, Lise Fuhr, and senior representatives from Telefonica and Telenor.

CEOs Statement on the Purpose of Digital Networks

The CEOs from ETNO companies joined the following statement:

Europeans deserve a digital economy that delivers for all, by creating new opportunities of inclusive growth and societal improvement across European regions and across all sectors of society. We believe that the ultimate purpose of the new and existing digital networks is to enable such opportunities.

EU digital leadership: telcos and cable companies call for a consistent approach to e-Privacy

WRC-19: EU telcos call for empowering citizens through ambitious global spectrum policy

Brussels, Sharm el Sheikh, 21 October 2019 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the Radiocommunication Assembly 2019 and the World Radiocommunication Conference of 2019 (WRC-19). The meeting has the potential to be a major milestone, as it will update the Radio Regulations at a time in which 5G innovation takes off across geographies.

ETNO launches “Europe 2030” agenda, announces new members and Chairman

La Valletta (Malta), 17 October 2019 – The Member and Observer companies of ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, met today in Malta for the 58^th General Assembly. During the meeting, chaired by Maltese leading telecom operator GO, ETNO announced its “Europe 2030” agenda as well as the appointment of Steven Tas (Proximus) as Chairman of the Executive Board.

Joint Industry Statement on the ePrivacy Regulation

 EU telecoms and cable sectors uphold confidentiality of communications, ask for promoting European innovation and competitiveness

Brussels, 10 October 2019 – The GSMA, ETNO and Cable Europe look forward to working with the new College of European Commissioners to advance the digital single market and spur European innovation and growth. Telecommunications and cable operators remain the backbone of the European digital economy.

European telecom services are evolving with consumer value on the rise: Assembly Research and ETNO unveil new consumer study on telecom services

Brussels, London, 30 September 2019 – As European consumers eagerly take-up data-driven services and increasingly communicate across digital channels, telcos are delivering increased value and improved service to their customers. This is the main take away of the new study “Delivering Consumer Value in Digital Times”, unveiled today by Assembly – the independent, London-based analyst firm – and ETNO – the Association representing Europe’s leader provider of digital networks and services. The study puts forward a fresh perspective on the relationship between telecom operators and their customers, complementing existing surveys and providing an overview of new challenges in digital markets.

UN General Assembly: ETNO welcomes the “Digital with Purpose” report

Brussels, New York, 26 September 2019 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, welcomes the release of the Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative’s (GeSI) latest report on how to best use ICT tools to boost the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

ETNO press note - Association’s Governance

Brussels, September 2019 - ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, informs that its current Executive Board Chair, Phillip Malloch, is stepping down as a result of him pursuing a new challenge outside ETNO Member Telia Company.

ETNO welcomes nomination of Commissioners-designate

ETNO welcomes nomination of Commissioners-designate

Brussels, 10 September 2019 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, welcomes today’s announcement on the Commissioners-designate for President Ursula Von Der Leyen’s College.

#Dialogue4Tech: Europeans are users, consumers, entrepreneurs… citizens!

The new EU political leadership is clear: digitisation and tech innovation are both a huge opportunity and a challenge for Europe. We must find our place on the global digital map. In this context, key stakeholders gathered for our 3rd #Dialogue4Tech, dedicated to the EU approach to digital services. One thing clearly emerged from the conversation: in their relationship with fast evolving technologies, Europeans are primarily digital “citizens”. This means they have a range of diverse needs, as users, consumers, entrepreneurs, innovators.

ETNO #Dialogue4Tech: new digital tunes with new EU conductors

The “European political orchestra” is in the process of changing its conductors and lead players. Some get to keep their spots, but all have of them are working on a fresh policy repertoire.

Many of the legislative initiatives and policies in the pipeline have to do with a very sensitive issue: the balance between digital freedoms and ensuring responsibility in the digital space. Both are of essence for European democracies and for the socio-economic growth of the content.

Trustworthy AI: EU recommendations send strong political signal

Brussels, 26 June 2019 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomed today the “Policy and Investment Recommendations for Trustworthy AI”, developed by the European Commission’s High-Level Expert Group on Artificial Intelligence.

Europe should avoid a false start on C-ITS: industry calls for Council to object the rushed adoption of the Delegated Act

Open Letter to the Council

Brussels, 25 June 2019 – As the Council of the European Union prepares to decide on the Delegated Regulation on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS), we call upon Member States to formally object to the current version of the Delegated Act. The proposed Regulation fails to ensure technology-neutrality, ignoring that newer technologies have emerged in recent years, offering unique capabilities to accelerate the market penetration of C-ITS and to deliver enhanced safety in a global ecosystem. Moreover, the significant concerns raised by the Council Legal Service on the lawfulness of certain provisions of the Regulation cannot be ignored.

Happy Birthday GDPR: a telecoms view on the first year

By Cristina Vela, Chairwoman, Data Protection, Trust and Security Working Group, ETNO and Paolo Grassia, Director of Public Policy, ETNO

Brussels, 24 May 2019 – The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) turns 1 year old and European telcos can look back with satisfaction at months of hard work on the implementation. Whilst GDPR has been seen as projecting European leadership on privacy globally, concerns about restricting innovation remain high, not least because of potential competing rules in the proposed ePrivacy Regulation.

ETNO launches #Dialogue4Tech: digital transformation, trust and sustainability are centre-stage

Europe’s industrial sectors are in the midst of digital transformation. This comes with huge opportunities for socio-economic growth, but also with the necessity to build trust across sectors of society and to scale-up sustainability efforts. Also, the need for Europe to aim for a global leadership position in tech has never been so high.

Joint Industry Statement On Protecting And Supporting Connected And Automated Driving Made in EU

Brussels, 15 April 2019 – The European Parliament and the Council are currently debating a Delegated Regulation on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS). The European Parliament Transport committee has this week called to halt the approval of this delegated act. We agree.

Artificial Intelligence: Europe should take the lead on trustworthy solutions

Brussels, 8 April 2019 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomed today the European High-Level Expert Group “Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (AI)” and called for supporting European solutions through sustained levels of investment and innovation.

EU should take global lead in connected and automated driving, automotive and telecoms sectors urge

Brussels, 3 April 2019 – As Europe prepares to elect a new European Parliament and appoint new Commissioners, the European Automotive and Telecoms Alliance (EATA) urges policy makers to step up efforts in order to ensure that the EU takes the global lead in connected and automated mobility.

Connected and Automated Driving in Europe: Lead or Lose?

Brussels, 8 April 2019 – Europe is about to take a crucial decision on connected and automated driving. Members of the European Parliament and Member States have an important say, this week, on the Delegated Regulation on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS).

ETNO statement on the common EU approach to 5G network security

Brussels, 26 March 2019 – The European Commission has today presented a recommendation for establishing a “common EU approach to the security of 5G networks”.

ETNO welcomes a new Director of Regulatory Affairs

Brussels, 27 February 2019 - ETNO, Europe’s leading telecoms association, is excited to announce a new key hire. Maarit Palovirta will join on March 1st as ETNO’s new Director for Regulatory Affairs.

ETNO Reflection Document on “Article 28(2) Universal Service Directive: a harmonised BEREC cooperation process - Consultation paper”

The Association of European Telecommunications Network Operators (ETNO) would like to thank BEREC for the opportunity to participate in the Consultation on “Article 28(2) Universal Service Directive: A harmonised BEREC cooperation process”.

Press release: Proximus wins the Best Societal Sponsorship Award

Our “Safer Internet” project took home the "Best Societal Sponsorship Award" at the Belgian Sponsorship Awards 2014 ceremony!

With Safer Internet, our collaborative venture with Microsoft and Child Focus, twice a year, Proximus collaborators raise awareness among fifth- and sixth-year primary school pupils about safe and responsible Internet use. The aim of the campaign is to teach pupils to think critically during their web activities, to teach them to ask the right questions and to realize what the potential consequences could be of a certain type of online behavior.

> www.clicksafe.be

The Best Societal Sponsorship Award is a recognition for companies who, via sponsoring, connect in a sustainable and authentic manner with the communities in which they operate. The award is in the first place a recognition for all colleagues who engage themselves to make the Safer Internet sessions a success.

The next sessions are foreseen on 10 February in the context of the international Safer Internet day.

> Discover our other initiatives

Source: Belgacom

Digital communications: strong benefits for Europe, investment climate still challenging

New Good Work, Good Health Guidelines unveiled to combat psychosocial hazards in work

Press release: ETNO joint statement with SAMENA Council Leadership Dinner 2013

MORE THAN 60 Telecom Operators and Broadcasters’ CEOS to convene at SAMENA Council event in partnership with etno to define cooperation schemes and explore growth opportunities

Brussels, May 10, 2013 - The South Asia – Middle East – North Africa’s SAMENA Telecommunications Council will be holding its 4th flagship Annual CEO & Chairmen Leadership Dinner in Venice, Italy, on the 24^th of May 2013. The event, held in co-operation with ETNO,  will gather more than 60 chairmen and CEOs of some of the most important telecommunications operators and broadcasting companies worldwide. Telecom Italia will host this leaders’ gathering in Venice.

ETNO calls for a sustainable model of Internet development and for a level playing field in the Internet value chain

EU and US Authorities should put at the centre of their ICT dialogue the sustainability of the current Internet model and the need for a level playing field for all players offering e-communications to citizens. This is the message to be conveyed by Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, on the occasion of meetings, in Washington DC, with US officials and industry representatives this week.

Press release: EU e-communications industry calls for harmonised and effective data protection for the benefit of innovation and consumers

Brussels, 14 May 2013 –  The new EU data protection rules should be effective and clear but also flexible enough to allow companies to innovate and consumers to benefit from new services, underlined ETNO, ECTA, GSMA and Cable Europe today on the occasion of a joint industry event hosted by MEP Seán Kelly, and with the participation of European Commission Vice-President Viviane Reding.

ETNO calls for a clear EU framework and stronger cooperation between energy and ICT sector to boost smart grids

Speaking at the EU Smart Energy and Sustainable ICT conference on May 3, Daniel Pataki, ETNO Director, insisted on the key role smart grids have to play to achieve energy efficiency and hence the Digital Agenda goals.

Press release: TLC: PISAPIA INCONTRA OPERATORI EUROPEI TELECOMUNICAZIONI

Nuove reti a banda larga sono grande opportunità per imprese e pubbliche amministrazioni

MILANO - Il Sindaco di Milano, Giuliano Pisapia, ha incontrato oggi a Palazzo Marino una delegazione di rappresentanti delle aziende europee leader nel mercato delle telecomunicazioni, presenti per la prima volta a Milano per il meeting del Board di ETNO (European Telecommunications Network Operators' Association - l'Associazione europea degli operatori di telecomunicazioni).

ETNO and ITU bring together policy makers and industry players from Europe and beyond to discuss future of International Telecommunications Rules.

High-level policy makers and industry representatives from Europe and beyond will gather in Brussels on April 19th for a workshop organised jointly by ETNO and the ITU on ‘Revising the International Telecommunication Regulations (ITRs) - Preparations for WCIT 2012’. The workshop is to be hosted at Belgacom’s Headquarters and will be opened by Didier Bellens, Belgacom CEO, and Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Board Chairman.

Press release: ETNO calls for a full revision of the Telecoms Regulatory Framework to be an integral part of the Digital Single Market initiative

• Investments in new networks are in the interest of European citizens and companies
• Action plan for a framework review is needed to simplify rules and meet investors' expectations

Annual EU Conference on Privacy and Data Protection – Washington DC / Brussels.

Commissioner Reding has been instrumental in placing a sound legislative proposal on the table to help strengthen the privacy rights of European citizens while lessening the administrative burden for businesses, says ETNO on the occasion of the annual EU conference on privacy and data protection held today in Washington DC. 

Press release: ETNO participates in the Arab Advisors Group “10th Convergence Summit”

• Current unpredictability and instability in the European telecoms sector regulatory framework risk crowding out private investments;
• What is needed is a comprehensive revision of EU rules, which guarantees more stability, predictability and investments, by allowing operators to achieve a more efficient market scale;
• The key problem affecting the telecoms sector is in fact market fragmentation;
• Collaboration between market players at the global level is also needed, with the creation of a level playing field particularly for taxation and data protection.

19 April, ETNO/ITU Workshop: Revising the International Telecommunication Regulations (ITRs) - Preparations for WCIT 2012

ETNO, in co-operation with the ITU, is pleased to announce a workshop entitled ‘Revising the International Telecommunication Regulations (ITRs) - Preparations for WCIT 2012’ that will gather a range of high level industry speakers from across the globe, including speakers from the ITU, ISOC, the Council of Europe, the European Commission, Ambassador David Gross and US Ambassador to the EU, William Kennard.

Press release: ETNO supports a more dynamic approach to competition that benefits the end-user with more investment and choice

“To serve our consumers and to meet these demands, it is essential that the broadband industry has the flexibility to offer differentiated products and services.”

FTTH Council Conference - Investors need a strong political signal: a reasonable increase in copper prices over time above inflation would clearly indicate a change of direction.

Speaking today at the closing plenary of the FTTH Council Europe Conference that gathers more than 3000 stakeholders in Munich, Luigi Gambardella, Chair of ETNO Executive Board of ETNO, shared the vision of leading European telecoms operators on how to accelerate the deployment of high speed broadband in line with the objectives of the Digital Agenda for Europe.

Press release: Commission releases Digital Access Scoreboard and identifies biggest problem as the lack of investment in very fast networks

The European Commission’s Digital Access Scoreboard, published earlier today, confirms that the European telecommunications market needs more investments in state of the art infrastructures to close the gap with the US and Asia.

EU 2012 Digital Agenda Scoreboard: ETNO welcomes progress so far and calls for further action to achieve DAE targets

ETNO welcomes continued progress towards achieving the Digital Agenda goals as highlighted in the Digital Agenda scoreboard issued today.

Press release: New Study by The Boston Consulting Group for ETNO Calls for Pro-Investment Agenda to Deliver Digital Single Market

Telecoms Regulation Reform Could Deliver EU Countries up to €750 Billion in GDP growth and 5.5 Million Jobs

BRUSSELS, July 19, 2013–With significant reform of the current patchwork system of regulations governing telecommunications in the European Union there could be up to €750 billion in GDP growth and 5.5 million jobs by 2020, according to a new study by The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) for the European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association (ETNO).

The study, Reforming Europe's Telecoms Regulation to Enable the Digital Single Market, details how a reformed regulatory framework can both safeguard competition as well as incentivize the investments in advanced next-generation access networks (NGA) required for the EU to reach its Digital Agenda targets and for the European Digital Single Market to become a reality.

ETNO proposes a number of changes to selected articles of the ITRs, in view of the WCIT (World Conference on International Telecommunications)

BRUSSELS – ETNO, the voice of Europe’s leading e-communications services and network providers, submitted to the ITU (International Telecommunications Union) proposals for changes to the ITRs providing for a new sustainable model for the Internet based on commercial agreements between undertakings.

Press release: First meeting of International Telecommunications Associations at the Regional Telecommunications Congress

The exchange of experiences and issues of interest in the sector, and the sharing of management practices characterized the first World Meeting of International Telecommunications Associations.

The meeting was attended by representatives of AHCIET, ASETA, CANTO, ESOA, ETNO, GSMA, PTC and SAMENA.

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: ETNO REITERATES ITS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

Brussels –Following World Environment Day on June 5, ETNO would like to recall the unique potential of the Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) in combating climate change and protecting the environment. The application of ICT based solutions in economic and social life is rapidly increasing throughout the world. For example, it is estimated that there are now some 6 billion mobile phone users and over 2.4 billion Internet users. 

Press release: Digital single market proposals need to promote investment, innovation and growth

Today the European Commission announced a set of proposals to speed up the creation of a European digital single market. Alongside a Regulation aimed at achieving a Connected Continent, the Commission has also adopted a Costing and Non-Discrimination Recommendation and a Communication on the Telecommunications Single Market. ETNO welcomes the Recommendation in particular and believes that it will provide the much needed price stability for copper lines and will support NGA investments through the lifting of price regulation.

ETNO-Total Telecom Regulatory Summit:EU Telecoms sector: change is needed to relaunch growth –Charles River Associates warned against using lower copper prices to promote fibre investments as this may have the opposite effect.

On the occasion of its Regulatory Summit held today in Brussels with Total Telecom, ETNO calls for an innovative regulatory and policy approach to stimulate new business models and spur investment. The ETNO- Total Telecom Regulatory Summit, opened by Georg Serentschy, 2012 BEREC Chair, and Anthony Whelan, Head of Vice President Kroes Cabinet, has attracted about 200 participants from the EU Institutions, national regulators, industry, academics and investors.

Press release: Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World

ETNO welcomes the European Commission’s ambitious Green Paper ‘Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World: Growth, Creation and Values’ as a timely initiative aimed at better understanding the current developments in the audio-visual sector and the likely trends ahead.

Treaty to give new impetus to ICT sector development: European telcos propose constructive input to global ICT treaty

European operators meeting at a joint ITU and ETNO event have agreed that upcoming revisions to the treaty that governs international telecommunications should act as a positive catalyst for the future development of ICT, to benefit all countries.

Press release: ETNO CALLS UPON THE EU COUNCIL TO ADOPT A ROADMAP TO GAIN LEADERSHIP IN THE GLOBAL DIGITAL ECONOMY

At the FT-ETNO SUMMIT 2013 “One Single Telecom Market for Europe?”, ETNO called upon the EU Council to adopt a roadmap for the EU digital economy during its meeting on 24/25 October, in order to generate jobs and growth and to improve competitiveness.

ETNO Costing Workshop

Approximately  one  hundred participants from the European Commission, national regulators and  Member States as well as industry representatives, academics and investors participated in an ETNO workshop entitled ”How to boost investment in next generation access networks: the impact of regulated prices on investments”. The workshop was organised under the auspices of the London School of Economics.

Press release: ETNO and Internet Society co-host workshop at the 8th Internet Governance Forum, Indonesia.

ETNO is hosting its first workshop at the Internet Governance Forum [IGF] in Bali, Indonesia. This year’s IGF is expected to be attended by approximately 1,500 participants from civil society, the private sector, the technical community and Government representatives. The objective of each IGF programme is to facilitate an open and inclusive dialogue and exchange of ideas on key issues relevant to the Internet governance world. The overarching theme for the 2013 IGF meeting is: "Building Bridges - Enhancing Multistakeholder Cooperation for Growth and Sustainable Development".

Review of the General Data Protection Directive

The proposal for a General Data Protection Regulation addresses the sector’s need for more harmonized data protection rules and for a comprehensive set of rules for all players in the ICT value chain. It should guarantee the necessary balance between data protection and innovation.

Press release: ETNO welcomes the European Council’s conclusions - Europe needs more ambition in boosting its digital economy

ETNO welcomes the recognition by the European Council that a strong digital economy is vital for growth and European competitiveness in a globalised world. We fully share the view expressed by the Council that Europe needs the right regulatory framework to accelerate the investments in broadband networks and tap the full potential of the digital economy.

ETNO second annual economic report

The continuous revenue decline in 2010 and 2011 for Europe’s telecoms sector despite overall timid economic growth confirms that structural rather than cyclical changes are shaping the sector, reveals the second ETNO Annual Economic Report published today.

Press release: ETNO Position on Completing the Telecoms Single Market and Response to the ITRE Stakeholders Consultation

The European Telecommunication Networks Operators association publishes today its position on completing the telecoms single market.

Costing: Plum report shows negative impact of lower copper prices on next generation access investment and coverage

A Plum report for ETNO  published today demonstrates that lowering the price of copper envisaged by the European Commission in its consultation as one of the possible options would have a negative impact on investment by existing network operators and entrants, thereby affecting the Digital Agenda objectives.

Press release: EU Telecoms Ministers discuss key files for the future of the telecoms industry

Telecoms Ministers met today in Brussels for the TTE Council to discuss key legislative files, including measures on cyber security and reduction of broadband roll-out costs. Ministers also held an orientation debate on the Connected Continent Regulation (full agenda available here).

At a time in which the digital economy is developing at a fast pace and telecoms markets are transforming, these legislative initiatives provide a unique opportunity to adapt EU’s policy framework to the digital age. Below you find a summary of ETNO’s public positions on these files.

ETNO welcomes Council’s recognition of importance of current rules to ensure an open Internet

In line with the Council’s conclusions on net neutrality adopted today, ETNO believes that significant economic gains can be achieved through an appropriate policy framework for ICT and that provisions of the existing regulatory framework are best placed to enable an open Internet.

Press release: ETNO Annual Economic Report 2013: conditions remain challenging, 2014 to bring change

ETNO presented today the Annual Economic Report 2013. The figures confirm that ETNO members are the driving force of Europe’s telecommunications sector. With a 77.3% share of the total sector employment and a 61% share of the total sector investments, ETNO operators are at the forefront in the global race to empower EU citizens, businesses and public administrations with world class connectivity.

The report, which was prepared in collaboration with the leading telecoms consultancy IDATE, shows a comprehensive picture of the state of EU’s telecoms industry.

GSMA and ETNO welcome today’s adoption by the EU’s Council of Telecoms Ministers of the first Radio Spectrum Policy Programme for 2012-2015 (RSPP).

The compromise text reached in trialogue between the Polish Presidency, the European Parliament and the European Commission sets clear policy orientations on the use of radio spectrum in Europe, which will help reap the benefits of the Digital Agenda and boost EU competitiveness.

Press release: Safer Internet Day 2014: “Online child safety must be a common effort”

ETNO welcomes #SID2014 and points to importance of education, safer services and collaboration

ETNO joins the 2014 initiatives to celebrate the Safer Internet Day, which this year extends to over 100 countries and will include 1000 events in Europe and across the world.

ETNO, which represents Europe’s biggest telecom operators, is committed to making the internet a safer place for kids and has established to this end an internal Children Protection Task Force. The task force gathers members from ETNO companies and is aimed at improving the safety of communication services for children, by promoting the responsible and informed use of the ICT services, while offering innovative high-quality, safety embedded online services and products.

EU Council

In view of the EU Council meeting, Chief Executive Officers from leading telecommunications operators and equipment providers called on EU Heads of State and Government to fully exploit the potential of the ICT sector to drive growth in Europe. In their joint letter, CEOs asked for a strong political commitment to ensure that European policies for e-communications network and services are implemented in a way that sustains growth and investment.

Press release: “Internet governance, it’s time to evolve: we need a more inclusive approach”

ETNO supports the multi-stakeholder model and acknowledges that some changes are necessary

ETNO welcomes the European Commission Communication on Internet Governance published today and shares the view that the multi-stakeholder model should remain the cornerstone of Internet governance.

ETNO believes that there is a need to improve and strengthen the multi-stakeholder dialogue on Internet-related matters and to work towards a clear definition of the roles of public authorities and stakeholders in the debate. An evolved governance model should reflect the principles of transparency, accountability and balance and ETNO looks forward to the forthcoming Commission consultation on the formulation of future European Internet governance policies.

Europe Needs Digitally Driven Growth

Joint statement by Digital Europe, GSMA and ETNO to the Heads of States issued on the occasion of the joint ICT industry annual reception on December 7.

Press release: Platform-competition era: ETNO calls for reduction of sector-specific regulation

As BEREC meets to discuss the European Commission’s draft Recommendation on Relevant Markets, ETNO asks to send a clear de-regulatory signal and avoid adding new regulated products

EU Consultation on costing

Brussels - To promote investment in next generation access networks, what is needed is a positive regulatory approach that supports pricing flexibility and allows the deployment of all high speed technologies capable of delivering high speed access, says ETNO in its response today to the European Commission consultation on costing methodologies.

Press release: Copyright in the digital age: we need to re-think the current rules

Today, the European Commission officially closes their Public Consultation on the review of the EU copyright rules. ETNO, representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has put forward a strong response to call for a timely re-think of copyright rules.

Daniel Pataki appointed new Director of ETNO

Daniel Pataki, former President of Hungary’s National Communications Authority, the European Regulators Group (ERG) and the EU’s Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) will become ETNO’s new Director in February, 2012.

Press release: One step closer to Europe’s future privacy rules: let it be a win-win for citizens and businesses

ETNO underlines importance of territorial scope and risk-based approach on the day of the European Parliament vote

ETNO  recognizes today’s vote by the European Parliamentary Plenary as a key contribution to the completion of the legislative work on the EU data protection legislation. Reform of the current EU framework is urgently needed in order to take account of the new digital context and to introduce more harmonisation across the EU and legal certainty for business.

Review of EU Data Protection Framework

Industry coalition identifies five key priorities for policy makers. Industry reiterates the need for greater harmonisation and a level playing field for all players targetting EU citizens, regardless of technology used.

Press release: Internet Governance: Europe’s leading telcos welcome NTIA announcement

IANA functions transition is a first step towards a more inclusive governance approach

ETNO, representing Europe’s leading telecoms operators, welcomes the announcement that the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) functions will be transitioned to the global multi-stakeholder community. This is an important step towards a truly global, multi-stakeholder governance model for the Internet and it is in line with ETNO’s long standing ask that ICANN becomes globalised as an organisation.

ETNO 40th General Assembly

ETNO members call for a long-term vision to boost investments in the sector - Gathered for their 40th General Assembly hosted by Telekom Slovenije, ETNO members and observers, who together account for a global turnover of €600 billion and 1.6 million employees, called on the Commission to deliver a long term strategic vision to achieve the Digital Agenda goals.

Press release: Relevant markets: New Plum study warns against risks of overregulation

“Enterprise requirements will increasingly be met by mass market products”, says latest analysis

Plum consulting has today published their new report “The evolving business services market and the review of the EC Recommendation on relevant markets”.

The report was commissioned by ETNO, Europe’s leading telecoms association, and it investigates the diverse and changing communications needs of businesses in Europe. The report is aimed at drawing lessons for the ongoing revision of the Commission’s Recommendation on Relevant Markets (more here).

Connecting Europe: funding for broadband networks must be accompanied by policies that ensure private investments in infrastructures.

Press release: Joint Industry Statement on the Open Internet Debate

Cable Europe, ECTA, ETNO and GSMA signed the following joint statement voicing their concern on how the current debate on Open Internet is developing

ETNO Executive Board Chairman, Luigi Gambardella, spoke at the Polish Presidency — Perspectives for the development of the electronic communications market in the EU - Conference

Press release: European Digital Economy, ETNO: “Parliamentary vote on the Connected Continent a step in the wrong direction”

ETNO voices concern over changes which might result in reduced consumers’ choice and harm to EU businesses competitiveness

ETNO-Financial Times 2011 CEO Summit

About 30 Chief Executive Officers of the leading telecoms operators and ICT equipment manufacturers from Europe and beyond, gathered today at the Digital Agenda Summit hosted by ETNO and the Financial Times, with Commissioner Kroes as keynote speaker.

Press release: NetMundial: “A unique opportunity to deliver on the promise of a global and inclusive Internet governance model”

Europe's leading telecom operators call for global recognition of the multi-stakeholder Internet governance model and progress towards the globalisation of such model, including ICANN and IANA functions

ETNO welcomes Cisco, Huawei and RIM as new observer members

Cisco, Huawei and Research In Motion (RIM) were approved as new observer members by the ETNO Executive Board, bringing ETNO membership to 40 full members and 9 observer members . ETNO members and observers account together for a total turnover of up to 600 billion € and about 1.6 million employees.

Press release: NetMundial: promessa de modelo global e inclusivo de governança na internet

As principais operadoras de telecomunicações da Europa pedem o reconhecimento mundial do modelo de múltiplos interlocutores (multi-stakeholders) de governança na internet e globalização das funções da ICANN e da IANA

Two representatives of ETNO member companies nominated as Vice-Chairs of Information, Computer and Communication (ICCP) Committee of BIAC

BIAC's ICCP committee is contributing to OECD policies in fields such as Internet Policy, broadband/telecommunications infrastructure and regulation, Online Security and Privacy, Online/Digital Content issues, Mobile Communications, ICT services innovation/Cloud Computing, ICT and the Environment, ICT Statistics (economic social impacts of the internet).

Press release: ETNO note on the São Paulo multi-stakeholder statement

CEO Roundtable

ETNO welcomes balanced joint industry recommendations on addressing sector challenges – ETNO notes the efforts of internet economy players to develop common recommendations to achieve the Digital Agenda, through the CEO Round Table process initiated by Commissioner Kroes, in which several ETNO members and observers have actively participated. 

Press release: ETNO releases interim Annual Economic Report results at the ETNO-MLex Regulatory Summit

Brussels, 25 June 2014 – ETNO, together with the consultancy IDATE, publishes every December an Annual Economic Report – summarizing the telecoms industry fundamentals.

On the occasion of the 2014 ETNO-MLex Regulatory Summit, ETNO has released interim data, developed by IDATE, which gives an overview of the industry performance in the period 2009-2013 and shows important forecasts for 2014.

High-level delegates from the European Commission, Regulatory bodies, Telecom Operators, Think Tanks, Investors and other industry stakeholders came together for the Summit to discuss key telecom regulatory issues including Net Neutrality and innovation in the Internet value chain and the future of Regulation in Europe.

Luigi Gambardella, Chairman of the Executive Board of ETNO, said: “Telecom operators kept up their level of investments in times of crisis and committed to deploying next generation networks. But CAPEX figures remained rather flat. We believe regulation should evolve to allow operators to respond to new challenges and unlock a new season of investments”.

Daniel Pataki, ETNO Director said: “We need a change of mindset. Let the next Commission be a Digital Commission. One in which policies and regulation are streamlined towards achieving more investments and innovation to the benefit of all”.

Facts & Figures

Telecom service revenues
 

Telecom retail service revenues have contracted year after year between 2009 and 2013 – a trend that is expected to continue in 2014.

Subscriptions up,  ARPU down
 

Continued growth of both fixed and mobile broadband subscriptions is not expected to compensate the decrease of the Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), which is predicted to remain flat or decrease slightly.

Investments flat, OTTs value shift confirmed
 

Despite the challenging environment, telecom operators are continuing to make sustained investment efforts, devoting a higher share of their revenues to investments. The aggregate capital expenditure of the top 10 European telecom operators remains flat however at about 47/48 billion Euros per year during the period 2010-2013. This against a scenario in which figures on revenues confirm that, while telecom operators' revenue decrease, those of the Over-the-top-players keep on increasing:

LTE and NGA growing
 

Despite the challenging environment, telecom operators are committed to deploying fast and superfast networks. There availability has increased:

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EU Polish Presidency

ETNO welcomes the Polish Presidency and calls for accelerating the opening up of spectrum as a key condition for bridging the digital divide 

Press release: Big data: an opportunity to improve quality of life and competitiveness in Europe

ETNO calls for right balance between privacy and innovation

2 July 2014, Brussels – ETNO welcomes the European Commission’s Communication “Towards a Thriving Data-Driven Economy” to foster the development of a data driven economy and the creation of a Big Data ecosystem in Europe which aims to facilitate the deployment of successful initiatives around the use of data for the benefit of society as a whole.

ETNO Chairman Luigi Gambardella said: “Big Data services are an important ingredient of our future digital life and Europe cannot afford to stray from this path, which will ultimately lead to new jobs and a better social environment for all. European citizens’ quality of life and European competiveness are at stake”.

ETNO believes that a more vigorous boost from the European Commission is needed to develop the European Big Data industry, addressing the new challenges related to Big Data, creating fruitful collaborative partnerships to strengthen the data community and looking for the right balance between innovation and privacy. As recognised by the Commission in its Communication, the European digital economy has been slow to embrace the data revolution and we cannot risk falling further behind other international economies, such as the US, which have been quick to rise to the opportunity.

ETNO agrees that, from a regulatory point of view, a good approach would be to create and gather best practices around Big Data and welcomes the European Commission’s intention to consult interested stakeholders with a view to adopting adequate guidance, on issues such as data anonymisation and pseudonymisation.

Privacy in Big Data is indeed one of the big challenges and we must look for the right balance between privacy protection and innovation. ETNO is convinced that citizens’ trust is a key element of a well-functioning data-driven economy and a successful EU single market in Big Data. In this sense, the future General Data Protection Regulation, once adopted, is not the “solution” itself but rather is just part of the overall solution for Big Data treatment.

What it is most important for Europe is a trusted environment where privacy is ensured by contractual and organizational measures, leading to a high level of protection of personal data.  We must aim for a trust-based environment supported by modern ex-post regulatory tools and based on a risk assessment approach which considers not only how data is collected but how it is used. More work needs to be done at EU level regarding IPR issues (eg: database rights), how Internet of Things data streams can be used and the development of concepts such as data subject ownership.

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EU Digital Agenda Assembly

Joint ETNO/ DIGITALEUROPE statement on Digital Agenda Assembly.

Press release: Internet Governance Forum, ETNO: “the right place for an inclusive debate”

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2014 opens today in Istanbul, Turkey. This year the participation of European players is expected to be even more significant, which underlines the increasing importance of the debate both in Europe and across the globe. ETNO, the association representing Europe’s biggest telecom operators, has a strong presence, with many member companies participating into workshops and conferences. This year’s overarching theme is: "Connecting Continents for Enhanced Multistakeholder Internet Governance" (access the full programme at http://igf2014.intgovforum.org/). The meeting will be also attended by a delegation from the European Commission, led by Vice-President Neelie Kroes, and a delegation of Members of the European Parliament.

ETNO Chairman Luigi Gambardella said: “This is the 9th IGF to take place and it is encouraging to see that European participation, and particularly that of European industry, is on the rise. ETNO has been a supporter of the IGF since its creation and is contributing to work around how to further strengthen the IGF, a need recognised by the NETmundial multistakeholder statement of April this year. Internet governance now attracts significant attention globally and ETNO looks forward to actively engaging in the debates in Istanbul”.

The IGF has become a well-established forum for multistakeholder debate around diverse issues affecting the continued development of the Internet and has served as an important laboratory for the discussion and dissemination of best practices and capacity-building initiatives related to interconnectivity and inclusiveness. This year’s IGF will have a particular focus on Net Neutrality, as this issue has been left open following the NETmundial meeting in Sao Paulo.

Luigi Gambardella added: “There are matters, such as net neutrality, on which the debate is not mature yet, even if we look at Europe only. For this reason we support the development of a fact-based and level-headed discussion on how to ensure that the Internet thrives as an open and innovative platform to the benefit of all. Such debate should be as constructive and inclusive as possible”.

The IGF will be an important opportunity to share views and perspectives from across the globe and to try to reach a common understanding on the various complex Internet Governance debates.

EU Digital Scoreboard

ETNO members welcome progress on 2013 broadband development objective but share Commission’s concerns over declining network investment

Press release: New European Commission: ETNO advocates for a stronger European ICT sector

ETNO welcomes today’s announcement of the portfolios for the new European Commission, ahead of the Parliamentary hearings. We congratulate both Vice-President-elect Andrus Ansip and Commissioner-elect Günther Oettinger on their nomination respectively as Digital Single Market Vice-President and Digital Economy & Society Commissioner. ETNO, representing Europe’s biggest telecom operators, has, since the beginning, welcomed the high prioritization of ICT policies in the programme that President-elect Jean-Claude Juncker presented to the European Parliament. As the debate on future digital public policies unfolds, ETNO remains committed to contributing to such a pivotal discussion for the future of Europe. Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Chairman, said: “We share President-elect Juncker’s view that, if we are to build a stronger economy for Europe, we need a stronger digital sector. We believe it is time for a new approach: more growth-enhancing policies and less traditional regulation to benefit both European citizens and businesses”.
ETNO has consistently supported a new approach to the ICT sector, one that recognizes its globalized nature and the increasingly outdated distinction between communications networks, services and the Internet.  The next wave of digital policies needs to fully take into account the extraordinary growth potential that the telecoms sector offers to society. ETNO represents Europe's biggest telecom operators, who account for over 60% of the total investments and 77% of the total employment of the European telco industry. ETNO members are committed to maintaining and deploying cutting-edge telecoms networks across Europe and to providing innovative services to European citizens.

Transposition deadline

ETNO welcomes entry into force of the new co-operation procedure under the revised EU Regulatory Framework.

Press release: ETNO at the FCC Open Internet Roundtable: “Let’s talk Future, Innovation and Investments”

Intellectual Property Rights

Joint Industry Statement on the European Commission's proposed strategy on a single market for intellectual property rights.

Press release: ETNO and UNI Europa sign a Joint Declaration on gender equality

Brussels, 22 September 2014 - During the Plenary Meeting of the European Social Dialogue Committee on Telecommunications, the social partners UNI Europa and the European Telecommunication Network Operators’ Association (ETNO) signed a Joint Declaration on gender equality.

G8

ETNO welcomes G8 focus on the future of Internet: ETNO is taking part in the two-day eG8 Forum on 24-25 May hosted by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, to gather views from industry stakeholders on the future of the Internet.

Press release: Financial Times-ETNO Summit 2014: Towards a Digital Renaissance

Telco leaders’ summit to take place next week in Brussels Brussels, London – 25.9.2014. The Financial Times and ETNO, Europe’s leading telecom association, will hold next week the 5th FT-ETNO Summit to discuss the “New Digital Agenda”. As we move towards the new term of the European Commission, the event will bring together Europe’s political and business leaders to provide timely input into the Commission’s next wave of digital policies.   ETNO Chairman, Luigi Gambardella, said: “Since the launch of the Digital Agenda for Europe, the telecoms sector has experienced change beyond any expectation. The paradigm shift is clear: ICT today is not only about communicating; rather it is the main driver of life-improving services. We have gathered exceptional speakers for what I am sure will be an exciting debate”.  The Financial Times Telecoms Editor, Daniel Thomas said : “The last 12 months has seen sentiment shift, balance sheets restored and M&A back on the agenda for the telecoms setcor. Now, with a new European parliament there are some defining choices ahead both for regulators and managements to chart their way to creating a modern and vibrant telecoms industry.”

The keynotes Through a series of keynote presentations and CEO panel debates, speakers will examine what needs to happen to encourage investment, enable innovation and foster consumer confidence. The keynote speakers of this year are: Luigi Gambardella (ETNO Chairman), Fátima Barros (Incoming Chair 2015, BEREC, and Chair of ANACOM, Portugal), Lowell C. McAdam (Chairman and CEO, Verizon Communications), Reed Hastings (co-founder and CEO, Netflix), Neelie Kroes (Vice President of the European Commission, Commissioner for the Digital Agenda). The event will be moderated by Daniel Thomas (Telecom Editor, Financial Times).   HSBC & the Investor Panel HSBC, the leading international banking and financial services organisation, is this year’s lead sponsor of the Summit and will bring the expertise of the investor world to the event. In this context, Stephen Howard (Global Head of Telecoms, HSBC) will moderate a panel dedicated to the investor view on European policies.   The FT-ETNO Summit, now in its fifth successful year, has established itself as the key event in the industry’s calendar. We are proud once again to bring together a distinguished speaker line-up to discuss the way forward for Europe’s digital economy.

Roadmap for moving to a competitive low carbon economy in 2050

EU Roadmap for moving to a competitve low carbon economy in 2050: the potential of the ICT sector must be fully exploited.

Press release: Speech of the ETNO Chairman at the FT-ETNO Conference

“A new EU term, a fresh approach: working together for the €3.3 trillion opportunity"

European Year of Equal Opportunities for All For EU Telecoms Operators, fighting discrimination and promoting a diverse workforce is a competitive advantage

Ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, encouraging better work/ life balance and promoting an open and diverse workforce enables EU telecoms operators to retain best talents and increase motivation, according to a report published today by ETNO and UNI*.

Press Release: Next Commission Term: “Let’s work together for the trillion-euro opportunity”

FT-ETNO Summit 2014, EU telcos presented today their “Agenda for Europe”

Brussels, 1 October 2014 – ETNO, the Association representing the EU’s leading telecom operators, has presented today its “Agenda for Europe” in view of the next term of the European Commission. According to figures presented in the Agenda, a new set of policies would help multiply telcos’ investment allowing the internet economy to be fully implemented. This would generate increases in efficiencies and productivity in the order of trillions of euros.

ETNO to participate in WCIT-2012 Preparatory Meeting of Asia-Pacific Region

Bangkok, Thailand - 6 to 8 August 2012:  - ETNO will take part in the APT (Asia-Pacific Telecommunity) regional meeting in Bangkok on 6-8 August, the purpose of which is to discuss the preliminary APT Common Proposals (PACPs) for WCIT-12. Participants will also discuss the WCIT preparations of the other five regional organizations and the output of the ITU Council Working Group on WCIT-12 (CWG-WCIT12).

Press release: ETNO Statement in view of the Informal Telecoms Council

2-3 October 2014

Internet Governance

ETNO response to State Aid for Broadband consultation

Public funding should go to underserved areas, no ‘crowding out’ of private investment and technology neutrality principles must be the basis of future European state aid policies for broadband

Press Release: Relevant markets recommendation: positive signals, more ambition needed

ETNO welcomes the de-regulatory elements in the revised Recommendation and calls for bolder reform

ETNO paper on Contribution to WCIT: ITRs Proposal to Address New Internet Ecosystem

The aim of the ETNO proposal is to contribute to the achievement of a more sustainable model for the Internet. ETNO is not asking for increased regulatory intervention but aims to establish a reference for commercial negotiations. The current interconnection model has some shortcomings that need to be addressed. Today there is a huge disproportion amongst revenues and a clear shift of value towards players (Over the Top players ? OTT) who are not contributing to network investment. Traffic and revenue flows need to be realigned in order to assure the economic viability of infrastructure investment and the sustainability of the whole ecosystem. The revision of the ITRs offers a unique opportunity to propose high?level principles for IP interconnection.

Press Release: ETNO launches the “Think Digital” Agenda, a CEO Committee and elects a new Chairman

European Telecommunication Network Operators gather in Stockholm for 2014 General Assembly

ETNO new Sustainability Report shows continued reduction of CO2 emissions despite increase in demand

On the occasion of a workshop held today jointly by ETNO and the ITU at the ITU Green Standards Week in Paris, ETNO unveiled its new Sustainability Report and Corporate Responsibility Charter.

Press release: ITU elects new Chairman and holds Plenipot in South Korea

Brussels, 23 October 2014 – Today, during the 19th Plenipotentiary Conference (Busan, South Korea), ITU, the International Telecommunications Union, elected Houlin Zhao of China as its next Secretary-General. ETNO, representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, looks forward to working and collaborating with the new ITU leadership and to facilitating its mission of connecting all the world's people and bringing the benefits of modern communication technologies to society in an efficient, safe, easy and affordable manner.

ETNO Chairman Luigi Gambardella said: “We acknowledge the hard work of Hamadoun Touré and praise the results he achieved during his mandate and we are looking forward to collaborating with the new Chairman, Houlin Zhao. ITU is an important institution that fosters debate and coordinates action to bridge the digital divide”.

ETNO is attending the ITU Plenipot as a long-standing ITU sector member and has co-ordinated its input through the CEPT (European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations), which supports the European position. 

ETNO response to Internet Society

ETNO REPLY TO Internet Society: ITRs review should look at Internet future and at better and new services for consumer

Press release: ETNO is moving

Note from the Director General

ETNO presents its proposal for ITRs revision to African Group Preparatory Meeting for WCIT

The African Telecommunications Union is currently meeting in Accra, Ghana to prepare its regional proposals for the World Conference on International Telecommunications which takes place this December. Following on from its attendance at the Arab Regional States meeting in Dubai, ETNO is also present at the meeting in Accra and will be represented by the Chairman of the ETNO Working Group on ITU Matters, Mr Dominique Wurges of Orange/France Telecom.

Press release: Trust & security: the cornerstone of a thriving digital value chain

Reflections around the NIS Directive debate at the Council

ETNO welcomes EC Cloud Computing Strategy

Following the Commission's announcement of its Cloud Computing Strategy "Unleasing the Potential of Cloud Computing in Europe", ETNO underlines the importance of cloud services both economically in terms of driving digital growth for Europe and socially as regards benefitting end-users with innovative services such as eHealth.

Press release: Joint Statement: Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement

ETNO CEOs’ Statement in Support of EU Financing for the High-speed Internet Infrastructure of the Future

Today, ETNO CEOs met with European Commission President Barroso and Vice-President Kroes, in charge of the Digital Agenda.

Press Release: ETNO delegation visits Beijing: EU-China mission on telecoms/digital

Brussels, Beijing, 3 November 2014 - ETNO, representing Europe’s leading telecoms operators, started today its visit to digital China. At a time in which China is becoming more and more important in the digital economy landscape, ETNO will take part in a series of activities and events organised by the China Academy of Telecommunication Research (CATR) and facilitated by the EU-China Policy Dialogue Support Facility (PDSF).

Today, ETNO’s Chairman Luigi Gambardella will deliver a speech (dowload here) on the “Challenges for EU telecom operators in a changing market environment”, which will take place at the EU Chamber of Commerce in China. This will also be an opportunity to discuss the EU Chamber's Business Report for 2014/15 and specifically its work on ICT (available here).

Luigi Gambardella will also speak at the "Broadband Policy Expert Group” of the China Academy of Telecommunication Research on 5th November. Mr. Gambardella will deliver a speech on “Reform trends and requirements in the EU communications policy framework”.

In addition to these events, ETNO will take part in a series of top level meetings with China’s rising digital stars. Amongst other important stakeholders, we will discuss e-commerce and mobile apps with Alibaba, business trends with Tencent and Baidu, and telecom business models with China Telecom and Huawei.

ETNO Chairman Luigi Gambardella said: “EU-China relations are crucial in today’s global digital value chain. For this reason, we are strong supporters of an open and continuous dialogue between China and EU in the field of internet and broadband policies”.

ETNO reiterates support to Commission’s announcement on a new regulatory environment for broadband investment and improve conditions for competitiveness

Brussels – Chief Executive Officers of the leading telecoms operators from Europe and beyond gathered today at the ETNO-Financial Times CEO Summit opened by Vice-President Kroes. Coinciding with the 20^th Anniversary of ETNO, the Summit, which attracted up to 350 delegates, is looking at the main developments in telecoms markets over the past years as well as the growth opportunities and the ways to unleash them.

Press Release: ETNO Statement on today's Council meeting

ETNO-Financial Times Summit: Opening Speech by Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair

ETNO Executive Board Chair Luigi Gambardella gave a speech at the FT-ETNO Summit 2012 in Brussels.

Press release: Joint UNI Europa-ETNO Press Release: Unions and telecom companies launch recommendations on future skills requirements

ETNO Expert Contribution on the European Commission Consultation “Improving Network and Information Security (NIS) in the EU”

With a view to the forthcoming EU Strategy on Cyber-security, expected by end 2012, the Commission has launched this public consultation on “Improving Network and Information Security (NIS) in the EU” in order to gather input from interested stakeholders.

Press Release: Telecoms - Return to growth in sight, reform is needed to support investments

ETNO presents the Annual Economic Report 2014 and underlines need to reform EU rules

Launch of EC consultation on review of the recommendation on relevant markets: An opportunity for a more targeted and investment-friendly regulatory approach

ETNO welcomes the launch today of a consultation on the revision of the recommendation on relevant markets which identifies the markets susceptible to regulation by national regulators. ETNO believes the revision of the recommendation is an opportunity to reduce regulation in response to increased competition, convergence and rapid technological changes, and to further improve the environment for high-speed broadband investment, in line with the recent announcements by Vice-President Kroes.

Press Release: ETNO and Commissioner Oettinger meet to discuss the importance of investments and growth for Europe's digital economy and society

GSMA and ETNO call for EU data protection reform to protect consumers and industry

Inconsistencies between the existing e-Privacy Directive and the proposed Data Protection Regulation need to be addressed

The GSMA and ETNO today raised the need to tackle discrepancies between the proposed Data Protection Regulation and the 2002 ePrivacy Directive, which create inconsistent consumer privacy experiences and rights for equivalent services and data. A consistent data protection framework is needed for both industry and consumers. Operators strongly support the harmonization objective of the proposal but highlight that technology and service neutrality has not been sufficiently addressed yet.

Press Release: “Let 2015 be the year of digital reform”, Steven Tas takes up ETNO chairmanship

Brussels, 7 January 2015 - ETNO, representing Europe's main telecom operators, is pleased to annouce that Steven Tas from Belgacom has taken up ETNO's chairmanship as from 1 January 2015.

Following his election by the General Assembly last November, Mr. Tas succeeded to Luigi Gambardella, who served as chairman of the ETNO Executive Board for the past four years. The role of the Executive Board is to provide strategic guidance and input on the main internal and external activities of the Association.

ETNO Chairman Steven Tas said: “Building on the extraordinary job of the outgoing Chairman, I will focus 2015 as the year of digital reform. We should aim at unlocking the untapped potential of the telecoms sector to the benefit of the whole European economy. We are ready to support the new European Commission for a review of the regulatory framework and for policies that recognise the evolution of today's digital markets. Modern policies and rules will benefit both EU consumers and businesses”.

ETNO recently presented an “Agenda for Europe”, inviting all stakeholders to think digital, promote reform and aim at the Continent's prosperity. You can read more here.

Profile of Steven Tas

Steven Tas has headed Belgacom’s regulatory department since 2008. He joined Belgacom in 1994 and has occupied different positions within the company’s Strategy division. He is a member of the ETNO board since 2009 and a member of the board of Centre on Regulation in Europe (CERRE) since 2010. Mr. Tas holds a master degree in Civil Engineering and Industrial Management from the University of Leuven.

Interview with Mr Maciej Witucki, CEO Orange Polska

Ahead of the ETNO General Assembly to be hosted by Orange Polska in Krakow on 25-26 October, Maciej Witucki, CEO of Orange Polska, shares his views with ETNO Digital on the main challenges for Poland in achieving the Digital Agenda objectives and on the regulatory approach.

Press Release: Investment in broadband, ETNO supports lighter regulation

ETNO Chairman Steven Tas took part today in a high-level stakeholders’ meeting on “Investment in High-Speed Broadband”, organised by Commissioner Günther Oettinger. During the meeting, a range of industry, investor and consumer representatives discussed how to achieve a faster and more widespread broadband deployment in Europe.

ETNO Chairman Steven Tas said: “We welcome the Commission’s Investment plan, especially in that it recognises that there are still important regulatory barriers to investing in Europe’s digital infrastructures. Today, we voiced our support for lighter regulation and more certainty for investors, which will incentivise broadband deployment. This will be to the benefit of citizens and businesses, as better-performing networks will deliver an improved customer experience, more innovative services and a more competitive Continent”.

ETNO welcomes EU Council’s support for Connecting Europe Facility

ETNO has continued to push forward with its efforts to support the European Commission’ s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and welcomes EU Council's support for CEF as announced today.

Press Release: A better investment climate, more value for consumers: let’s make it happen

ETNO General Assembly Joint Statement - Towards a new Policy for Growth

Krakow, Poland – Gathering for their 42nd General Assembly hosted by Orange Polska, senior representatives from ETNO members adopted ETNO’s key priorities for 2013 and called for a new Policy for Growth.

Press Release: Strengthening EU’s digital economy: We need a positive conclusion to the Connected Continent debate

Luigi Gambardella confirmed as Chairman of the Board of ETNO - Representing 38 European Telcos

Luigi Gambardella, Vice-President of Telecom Italia, in charge of relations with international institutions and organisations, was unanimously confirmed as Chairman of the Executive Board of the European Telecommunications Network Operators’ association (ETNO) for 2013. ETNO communicated that the re-election took place during the association’s General Assembly, which gathered last week in Krakow, Poland. Mr Gambardella has been chairing the Board of ETNO since 2011.

Press release: Joint Statement - Open Internet: INTUG and ETNO call for a user-friendly approach

ETNO Reflection Document: ECC WG NaN Green Paper - Long Term Evolution in Numbering, Naming and Addressing 2012-2022

The Association of European Telecommunications Network Operators (ETNO)[1] would like to thank the CEPT/ECC (Electronic Communications Committee) WG NaN (Working Group Numbering and Networks) for the opportunity to comment on the Draft Final of Green Paper on “Long Term Evolution in Numbering, Naming and Addressing: 2012 – 2022”.

ETNO appreciates the difficulty of the task undertaken by the WG NaN to outline potential evolutions of a complex and multi-dimensional area ten years ahead in an environment as diverse as the 48 CEPT countries. In response, this paper merely intends to provide comments on the Green Paper for further discussions and related workshops; it does not have the ambition of setting out ETNO’s perspective on that same evolution.  

On a general note, ETNO also observes that the introduction of the paper emphasises a potential trend for E.164 numbers to be used chiefly as ‘names’ within ten years. Whilst ETNO understands (and endorses) the growing importance of IP-based technologies (and addresses) and social media addressing schemes, we would note that as far as numbering plan evolutions are concerned, most current evolutions under study on national or international numbering plans for the next five years are related to the use of phone numbers as “addresses”, which may be seen as being in contradiction with this long term vision.

That vision seems also to argue for a gradual disappearance of “service numbers” like short numbers. This is not consistent with the current approach of harmonisation.

Press Release: Unlocking fibre roll-out: let’s make the most of the 2013 Recommendation

Response to DG Trade’s Public Consultation on regulatory issues for a possible future EU-US trade agreement

There is a wide consensus that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are a key driver of economic growth on account of their multiplier effect across all sectors of the economy, providing the foundation for global competitiveness and job creation in manufacturing, agriculture and services. ICTs have experienced a radical transformation in the last decade with the development of the Internet as a common platform where convergent voice, data and video services are provided by a range of actors running on top of traditional network operators and not subject to the same legacy regulations.

ETNO believes that a holistic vision with a common understanding of the ICTs ecosystem should be an objective for the EU and US Administrations and should be reflected in their approach towards a Free Trade Agreement to ensure a level playing field among all actors involved in the provision of ICT services. As competitive dynamics change with the entrance of new players, the goal of ensuring open markets for ICT services across the Atlantic should come in parallel with a more flexible approach towards the provision of telecommunications services, a stronger reliance on ex-post application of principles of competition law and a broader perspective on the positions of dominance that are held across the value chain.

Press release: Press Note: ETNO’s viewpoint on the Digital Single Market Strategy

ETNO and ICANN met at IGF: further cooperation is needed

On the occasion of the Internet Governance Forum held this week in Baku, Azerbaijan, ETNO met with ICANN and agreed to explore ways of future cooperation on issues regarding the future of the Internet.

Press Release - Broadband policy: a pro-investment and pro-innovation approach is needed on both sides of the Atlantic

ETNO Reflection Document on “Draft ECC Recommendation 12(04): Numbering for VoIP Services”

The Association of European Telecommunications Network Operators (ETNO)[1] would like to thank the CEPT/ECC (Electronic Communications Committee) for the opportunity to comment on Draft ECC Recommendation 12(04) “Numbering for VoIP Services”.

ETNO CEO Statement on Achieving Europe’s Digital Single Market

ETNO takes part in the World Communications Award

Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, is taking part today in the Gala Ceremony of the World Communication Awards which rewards companies and individuals responsible for the innovations, achievements and new services in the telecoms industry throughout the world.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - Saving the climate and driving economic growth at the speed of light.

“ICT has the potential to enable a 20% reduction of global CO2 emissions by 2030” #ThinkDigital

ETNO welcomes Bocar A. BA as new CEO for SAMENA Council

The European Telecommunications Network Operators Association welcomes the appointment of Bocar A. BA as the Chief Executive Officer of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council. This new leadership role will further strengthen and foster ETNO’s strategic alliance with the SAMENA Council in the months and years to come for the good of our stakeholders and industry.

ETNO Statement on the final TSM vote

ETNO third annual economic report - EU Telecoms revenue down for the third year in row, reducing Europe’s importance on global telecoms market

Published today, the third ETNO Annual Economic Report revealed that despite a revenue decline by 1.5% in 2011, investments in fixed and mobile sectors continued to grow by 4.6%. Europe’s share of global telecoms markets, however, shrunk from 31 to 25% over the last 6 years.

Press Release - Spectrum: leading EU telcos publish common position in view of WRC-15

ICT can cut global greenhouse gas emissions by 16.5%, saving up to $1.9T annually

Potential reduction in harmful gases is even larger than thought a few years ago, according to study by BCG and GeSI.

ETNO Executive Board meets Business Europe

Coalition Statement in view of EC College Orientation Debate on Copyright

Our pan-European organisations, ECTA, ETNO, EuroISPA and GSMA Europe represent an electronic communications industry that is comprised of both national and pan-European fixed and mobile operators and Internet Services Providers (ISPs).

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview: Digital power maps, data flows, the new way of working and the future of smarter citizens

An interview to Dr Tim Jones, Programme Director for Future Agenda, a global open foresight programme: “Perhaps data should be treated like water in that the ability to control the flow is not down to national governments and agreements, but more down to protocols and security levels.” #ThinkDigital

Serafino Abate joins ETNO as new Regulatory Affairs Manager

BRUSSELS – Serafino Abate joined the ETNO team as the new Regulatory Affairs Manager from Ofcom, the UK regulator. He will coordinate the work of ETNO and present the association’s position in areas such as economic regulation, spectrum, external trade, research and innovation, as well as tax issues.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview: CEO of VIVACOM talks customers, innovative products and EU regulation ahead of ETNO’s General Assembly in Sofia

"Our basic credo is around ubiquitous, fast broadband and convergence." Atanas Dobrev - Member of the Managing Board and CEO, VIVACOM #ThinkDigital

ETNO welcomes new Digital priorities for 2013-2014

BRUSSELS – By focusing both on a new regulatory approach for broadband networks and on better conditions for the deployment of new services, ETNO believes that the Commission addresses both the need for more investment incentives and consumer take up. Ultimately these new priorities should address the need for the EU telecoms sector to grow and become more competitive, following several years of decline in revenues.

ETNO Member & Observer Joint Statement

Revision of the Recommendation on the Relevant Markets: Rapidly changing market and technology realities call for more targeted regulation

As the new recommendation on relevant markets will identify the markets susceptible to regulation by national regulators up to 2020, the review should be forward looking and not only reflect today’s market changes but also anticipate rapidly evolving technologies and consumer habits, says ETNO in its response to the EC open consultation closing today.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - Three ingredients for successful reform

"If our industry continues investing at the current pace, the good old Digital Agenda targets will be missed by a €106bn investment gap. A real leap in investment is what we need to be working for collectively.", Steven Tas, ETNO Executive Board Chairman #ThinkDigital

Interview with Pablo Bello Arellano, Secretary General of AHCIET

As part of its strategy to reinforce cooperation at international level with other telecoms associations, ETNO signed a strategic  cooperation agreement  with the Latin American  Association of Research Centers and Telecommunication Enterprises, AHCIET. ETNO signed similar cooperation agreements earlier on with SAMENA (South Asia, Middle East and North African Telecoms Council) and with US Telecom. To mark the start of this cooperation, Pablo Bello, Secretary General of AHCIET, gave an interview to ETNO Digital.

ETNO Think Digital Blog Post: A modern and balanced copyright framework fit for the Digital Age

"Online content can reach people in a way that could never have been imagined before, new business models are emerging every day. It is time to look at the new reality and create a modern and balanced copyright framework" #ThinkDigital

ETNO welcomes the announcement made today by Commissioner Kroes on the policy and regulatory approach for the next years in the electronic communication sector in Europe.

Luigi Gambardella, Chairman of the ETNO Board has declared: "ETNO considers that today’s statement will contribute to end a long period of uncertainty in the sector. Investors need a stable regulatory framework and today’s announcements by VP Kroes is an important step towards building investor trust, giving a valuable guidance in the light of the European Commission growth strategy for 2020.”

ETNO statement on the Framework Review Consultation

Interview with Jan Albrecht, MEP

To mark the forthcoming European Data Protection Day, ETNO Digital publishes an interview with Jan Philipp ALBRECHT, MEP, Member Group of the Greens/European Free Alliance and lead Rapporteur on the Commission’s draft Proposal for a General Data Protection Regulation. His Report will be voted in the LIBE Committee in April.

Press Release: IDATE & ETNO unveil new Annual Economic Report on the European telecoms sector

ETNO welcomes Irish EU Presidency and calls for support of the Connecting Europe Facility

BRUSSELS – On the occasion of a meeting today with Irish Presidency representatives, ETNO underlined its support of the Irish Presidency’s main priorities of establishing stability, jobs and growth, and insisted on the need to enable the telecoms sector to fully play its role as a driver of growth and welfare for Europe’s economy and society as a whole.

ETNO statement in view of the Telecoms Council

European Data Protection Day - ETNO reiterates its support for stronger protection of personal data

Today’s European Data Protection Day is a chance to both celebrate Europe’s strong principles on data protection and to reflect on the forthcoming changes that will be introduced through the new revised legislative framework.

Press Release: Consistent Data Protection Standards - EU telcos put the spotlight on next steps

ETNO and GSMA Reiterate Commitment to High Standards of Protection of Personal Data

29 January 2013, Brussels – ETNO and the GSMA call on the European Parliament and Council to work towards the timely adoption of the EU Data Protection Regulation and to ensure that the final text reaches the proper balance between protecting consumers and driving economic growth.

ETNO Statement: “Telecoms empower EU citizens’ lives”, Lise Fuhr starts her mandate as ETNO Director General

ETNO EB Chair to speak at the 8th annual Telecomfinance Conference in London on 30-31 January

Speaking on the regulatory panel on 30 January, Luigi Gambardella, Chair of the ETNO Executive Board, will look at how EU policies need to evolve in order to allow for the EU telecoms sector to grow and meet the investment challenge.

Press Release: Digital Single Market - Investment & innovation in telecoms are crucial for Europe’s growth

ETNO calls on EU Council for support to Connecting Europe Facility

In a letter to the Irish Prime Minister Mr. Enda Kenny, the President of the European Council, Mr. Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Commission, Mr. José Manuel Barroso, and the President of the European Parliament Mr. Martin Schulz, ETNO, reiterated its support to the for the European Commission’s proposal for a “Connecting Europe Facility” (CEF), in view of the European Council on 7-8 February, which will discuss and possibly seal an agreement on the EU budget package.

ETNO Think Digital blog post: Machines with a deeper understanding of digital content, big data as a solution to addressing greater societal challenges – telecom trends in 2016

Bjørn Taale Sandberg, Senior Vice President and Head of Telenor Research outlines his best guess at the six most important trending areas of 2016. #ThinkDigital

EC proposal for a Directive on Network and Information Security: An important step towards a truly level playing field between all players

ETNO welcomes the proposal for an EU Directive on Network and Information Security adopted today as a major contribution to enhanced consumer trust and confidence in the digital era. The proposed Directive is part of a comprehensive EU Cybersecurity Strategy launched jointly by Neelie Kroes, Commissioner for the Digital Agenda; Cecilia Malmström, Commissioner for Home Affairs; and, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Joint Industry Statement on Harmonising Spectrum Use in the EU

ETNO disappointed by reduction of the Connecting Europe Facility [Telecoms] budget

The CEF budget for telecoms has been reduced from EUR 9.2  billion to EUR 1 billion under the new budget deal agreed by the European Council.

ETNO Think Digital Interview: Creating a successful Digital Single Market

MEP Barbara Kappel: "The review should be about a real, free framework for competition" #ThinkDigital

EU Data Protection Reform: Major Telecoms Operators Support Push for Level-Playing Field

Today, Vice-President Viviane Reding is meeting Luigi Gambardella, chairman of ETNO, who represents the leading telecommunications network operators in Europe to discuss the EU Data Protection rules proposed by the European Commission in January 2012 (see IP/12/46 and IP/13/57).

Press Release: Telecom Reform - report proposes new focus on consumer welfare and innovation

Consultation of e-Business Stakeholders for the WSIS+10 Review

The C7 e-Business action line covers the following items:
a) Governments, international organizations and the private sector, are encouraged to promote the benefits of international trade and the use of e-business, and promote the use of e-business models in developing countries and countries with economies in transition.
b) Through the adoption of an enabling environment, and based on widely available Internet access, governments should seek to stimulate private sector investment, foster new applications, content development and public/private partnerships.
c) Government policies should favour assistance to, and growth of SMMEs, in the ICT industry, as well as their entry into e-business, to stimulate economic growth and job creation as an element of a strategy for poverty reduction through wealth creation.

ETNO Think Digital blog post: Revising the regulatory framework for electronic communications

David Lewin, consulting director at Plum: “These proposals focus regulation on the right regulatory objective – the long-term interests of end-users.” #ThinkDigital

ETNO at Alleanza per Internet Workshop on 8th March (Rome) - BEYOND DUBAI. A NEW GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE INTERNET.

ETNO will participate on March 8th at a Workshop in Rome entitled BEYOND DUBAI. A NEW GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE INTERNET. The event will take place at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview - Speed, latency, content, ubiquitous coverage: Pleasing today’s Digital consumer

On the occassion of the FTTH Conference 2016, Matthias Kurth, Executive Chairman of Cable Europe speaks to ETNO: “The best stimulus for broadband growth is an investor-friendly climate, teamed with a fading out of regulatory constraints where competition is alive and well.” 

ETNO AND SAMENA COUNCIL TO REINFORCE COOPERATION ON TELECOMS INDUSTRY MATTERS

At the SAMENA Council’s Beyond Connectivity 2013 conference, ETNO and the SAMENA Council, jointly representing telecommunications operators and service providers in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, both reiterated their commitment to closely cooperate in addressing high-priority industry issues and to collaborate on developing frameworks, which may assist the industry in creating innovative and efficient business models.

Joint Statement: Automotive and telecom industries set joint priorities for connected and automated cars

Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair speech at BEYOND DUBAI. A NEW GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE INTERNET workshop

Speaking today at the at a Alleanza per Internet Workshop in Rome entitled BEYOND DUBAI. A NEW GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE INTERNET, Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, said:

Joint Statement - 5G: tech and telecom industries support initiatives to put EU in the lead

ETNO welcomes European Council conclusions on the single market for telecoms

Brussels - ETNO members, who represent the main investors in today's and tomorrow's high-speed networks, welcome the conclusions of the European Council, which echo the industry call for a single market for telecoms. A broad reform is needed in order to boost the sector’s competitiveness and unlock its potential to drive growth and jobs in Europe.

EU consultations: stakeholders stress role of powerful broadband

ETNO endorses Copyright Users Platform paper on CRM Directive

ETNO is proud to announce it's endorsement of the draft Directive on collective management of copyright and related rights and multi-territorial licensing of rights in musical works for online uses in the internal market released by the Copyright Users Platform. This paper was also endorsed by other European associations.

Global internet: ETNO welcomes ICANN 55 decisions

Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, to participate in the Avaya Forum 2013, Rome

On 21 March, in Rome, several key representatives of institutions, regulatory authorities and ICT companies will gather at the “Avaya Forum 2013” for a discussion on the implementation of the Digital Agenda in Italy.

Data protection regulation a key milestone. Let’s now move fast on ePrivacy

ETNO welcomes EC proposal for coordinated measures throughout the EU to bring down cost of high speed broadband roll out

Brussels – ETNO, who represents the leading investors in high speed broadband networks, welcomes the draft EC Regulation to cut the cost of rolling out high-speed broadband, as an important step for supporting investment in the EU and accelerating the achievement of the DAE targets.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview - Making 5G a reality for the connected consumer

Andreas Geiss, Head of Unit for Spectrum Policy in DG CONNECT: “5G is much more than just higher speeds, it is about new services and business cases (the verticals). Connected vehicles, remote health care and smart cities are just a few examples of the wider scope we are looking at.” #ThinkDigital

ETNO visits the European Cybercrime Centre in The Hague

The Hague – Today, a delegation of the ETNO Executive Board is visiting the recently opened European Cybercrime Centre which has been set up as part of the Commission's Cyber Security Strategy. The EU Cyber Security Strategy is a joint initiative of Vice-President Neelie Kroes, Commissioner for the Digital Agenda; Cecilia Malmström, Commissioner for Home Affairs; and, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Press Release - Digital industrial leadership: telcos welcome new strategic approach

Mustafa Aykut of Turk Telekom speaks at “Beyond Dubai: a new global agenda for the Internet”

Mustafa Aykut, Group Representative, Turk Telekom at “Beyond Dubai: a new global agenda for the Internet”, held on March 8th, 2013, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Rome.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview - Altice Labs showcasing innovation at the Net Futures 2016 event

On the occasion of the Net Futures 2016 event, ETNO interviewed Helder Biscaia, Director of Business Development at Altice Labs, the innovation arm of Portugal Telecom #ThinkDigital

ETNO-FT CEO Summit, Brussels, 8 October 2013: One single telecom market for Europe?

The ETNO-FT CEO Summit has become a landmark annual telecoms event. This year, One single telecom market for Europe? will be the underlying theme of the 2013 edition of the ETNO-Financial Times CEO Summit to be hosted in Brussels on 8 October. The Summit will be opened by Mrs Neelie Kroes, Vice-President of the European Commission for the Digital Agenda.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog: Aiming for the highest innovative standards in Europe

"The huge growth potential of the Internet of Things depends on ability to roll-out superfast broadband networks." #ThinkDigital 

ETNO joins the Internet Society [ISOC]

Building on its existing membership network of organisations active in the Internet policy space, ETNO is pleased to announce its membership of the Internet Society. ISOC is a global cause-driven association which engages in a wide spectrum of Internet issues, championing public policies that enable open access and promoting the development, evolution, and use of the Internet for the benefit of all users. With more than 65,000 members and nearly 92 Chapters around the world, as well as more than 145 organisation members, ISOC achieves change through partnership and expertise in policy, technology and communications.

ETNO press note on German vectoring plans

EU Associations question the need for a revision of the IPR Enforcement Directive [IPRED]

The pan-European organisations Cable Europe, ECTA, ETNO and EuroISPA, represent the European electronic communications industry that is comprised of both national and pan-European fixed and mobile telecoms operators, Internet Services Providers (ISPs) and cable companies. The European electronic communications industry plays a crucial part in connecting European citizens and businesses to information, news, entertainment and cultural content.

ETNO promotes 5G fact-finding visit with the EBU

Interview with Luigi Gambardella at the IIR Conference, London

ETNO's Executive Board Chairman, Luigi Gambardella, was invited to speak at the Telecoms Regulations Forum held at the London Hyatt from 22-24 April 2013. Furthermore, Luigi Gambardella also answered questions on the current state of the European telecoms industry, regulation and targets set by Commissioner Neelie Kroes for the Digital Agenda, and why a Single Market is needed for the future of the telecoms sector.

ETNO meets with US regulators and stakeholders

Study calls for lesser markets to be regulated and a more flexible regulatory approach for broadband markets

BRUSSELS – The current review of the EC recommendation on the relevant markets should lead to a reduction in the number of markets to be regulated and to fundamental change in the regulation of broadband. This is the main finding of a study by Plum Consulting for ETNO presented today at the ETNO-MLex Regulatory Summit, which attracted more than 120 participants.

Online platforms: telcos stress importance of horizontal view of the digital value chain

ETNO calls for harmonized approach for spectrum

BRUSSELS – The use of frequency bands for wireless broadband applications should be harmonized at European and preferably worldwide levels, says ETNO in its response to the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) consultation on Strategic Challenges facing Europe in addressing the Growing Spectrum Demand for Wireless Broadband.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog: A new framework for the future connectivity of European users

MEP Boni: “Today, we have to respond to the new challenges. We need to re-balance the models of infrastructure-based and service-based competition​" #ThinkDigital

Study calls for new wave of European telecoms market deregulation to restore growth and investment

• The European telecoms sector has been in decline and lags all other major regions of the world on financials – but could generate additional annual revenues in excess of €40bn by 2020 with the right policy framework in place
• Operators need three freedoms: freedom to price, freedom to innovate and freedom to consolidate, in order to reverse this trend and maintain a healthy, competitive sector which can attract investment needed to build a world-class digital infrastructure

Press Note: Leading Telecom CEOs meet with the European Commission

ETNO joint statement with SAMENA Council Leadership Dinner 2013

MORE THAN 60 Telecom Operators and Broadcasters’ CEOS to convene at SAMENA Council event in partnership with etno to define cooperation schemes and explore growth opportunities

Brussels, May 10, 2013 - The South Asia – Middle East – North Africa’s SAMENA Telecommunications Council will be holding its 4th flagship Annual CEO & Chairmen Leadership Dinner in Venice, Italy, on the 24^th of May 2013. The event, held in co-operation with ETNO,  will gather more than 60 chairmen and CEOs of some of the most important telecommunications operators and broadcasting companies worldwide. Telecom Italia will host this leaders’ gathering in Venice.

EU Open Internet Guidelines: let’s not slow down our 5G ambition

EU e-communications industry calls for harmonised and effective data protection for the benefit of innovation and consumers

Brussels, 14 May 2013 –  The new EU data protection rules should be effective and clear but also flexible enough to allow companies to innovate and consumers to benefit from new services, underlined ETNO, ECTA, GSMA and Cable Europe today on the occasion of a joint industry event hosted by MEP Seán Kelly, and with the participation of European Commission Vice-President Viviane Reding.

UNI Europa and ETNO sign joint declaration on Telework

Data Protection: Opening speech by Luigi Gambardella, ETNO EB Chair at the joint industry associations event

Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, opened today a joint industry workshop held by ETNO, ECTA, GSMA and Cable Europe on the proposed General Data Protection Regulation, hosted by MEP Sean Kelly and with Vice-President Reding as keynote speaker.

ETNO ThinkDigital blog: Messaging Apps, SMS, Voice or Internet calls? Preferences vary among 16-35 year olds.

Bjørn Taale Sandberg, Head of Telenor Research: “The survey shows that the preferences differ from market to market. Traditional telco services like voice calls and SMS are still an important part of communication habits in most of the surveyed countries" #ThinkDigital

ETNO takes part in workshop on Internet Security in Rome

Luigi Gambardella, Chairman of the ETNO Executive Board, took part in the international workshop "Internet Security, the importance of collaboration between companies and authorities for the protection of consumers", held in Rome on 22 May 2013.

Press Release - European Single Market: ETNO supports positive digital reforms

ETNO calls for a full revision of the Telecoms Regulatory Framework to be an integral part of the Digital Single Market initiative

• Investments in new networks are in the interest of European citizens and companies
• Action plan for a framework review is needed to simplify rules and meet investors' expectations

ETNO ThinkDigital interview – Embracing the Digital Economy and the changes it brings

Christina Colclough, Head of EU Affairs, Uni Europa: “We need to look at the Digital Economy and everything it brings with it in terms of potential and challenges, of new business models, of changing customer behaviour, but also in terms of actually making our societies work on the social, economic and environmental levels.” #ThinkDigital

ETNO participates in the Arab Advisors Group “10th Convergence Summit”

• Current unpredictability and instability in the European telecoms sector regulatory framework risk crowding out private investments;
• What is needed is a comprehensive revision of EU rules, which guarantees more stability, predictability and investments, by allowing operators to achieve a more efficient market scale;
• The key problem affecting the telecoms sector is in fact market fragmentation;
• Collaboration between market players at the global level is also needed, with the creation of a level playing field particularly for taxation and data protection.

Joint Industry Statement: Empowering trust and innovation by repealing the e-Privacy Directive

ETNO-MLex regulatory Summit Highlight Video

This year’s Summit, held on 25 April 2013 at the Brussels Louise Sofitel, addressed the most pressing issues in European telecom regulation, and in particular the revision of the relevant markets recommendation. It was the occasion of a debate with all stakeholders on how the regulatory approach should accommodate the main changes in markets and technologies.

Press Release - 5G: ETNO endorses Industry Manifesto, stressing importance of collaboration and investment

ETNO supports a more dynamic approach to competition that benefits the end-user with more investment and choice

“To serve our consumers and to meet these demands, it is essential that the broadband industry has the flexibility to offer differentiated products and services.”

Joint Press Note: Automotive and telecoms sectors to launch EU project for connected and automated driving

ETNO to participate at Public Information Session on the Telecoms Single Market by DG Connect

On Monday 17th June 2013, ETNO will participate at a Public Information Session on the Telecoms Single Market, organised by DG Connect (http://ec.europa.eu/digital-agenda/en/news/background-paper-public-information-session-telecoms-single-market).  Vice President Neelie Kroes and Mr Roberto Viola, Deputy Director-General of DG Connect, will oversee this high level meeting which includes the participation of Mr Göran Marby (PTS / BEREC Chair 2014), Mr Stephen Howard (Head of Telecoms Research HSBC), Mr Ulf Ewaldsson (Ericsson CTO) and Presidents/Directors from the main telecoms associations in Brussels.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - ePrivacy Directive called into question: time to move forward

Global law firm DLA Piper takes a deeper look into to the arguments supporting the long term goal of repealing the ePrivacy Directive to the benefit of consumers. #ThinkDigital

ETNO Executive Board Chair Luigi Gambardella's remarks from EU Commission's hearing on the Telecom Single Market

ETNO Executive Board Chair Luigi Gambardella attended the European Commission's hearing on a a Telecom Single Market and gave the following remarks.

ETNO on Roaming Fair Use Clause

Note to the Press

New Study by The Boston Consulting Group for ETNO Calls for Pro-Investment Agenda to Deliver Digital Single Market

Telecoms Regulation Reform Could Deliver EU Countries up to €750 Billion in GDP growth and 5.5 Million Jobs

BRUSSELS, July 19, 2013–With significant reform of the current patchwork system of regulations governing telecommunications in the European Union there could be up to €750 billion in GDP growth and 5.5 million jobs by 2020, according to a new study by The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) for the European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association (ETNO).

The study, Reforming Europe's Telecoms Regulation to Enable the Digital Single Market, details how a reformed regulatory framework can both safeguard competition as well as incentivize the investments in advanced next-generation access networks (NGA) required for the EU to reach its Digital Agenda targets and for the European Digital Single Market to become a reality.

Press Release: ETNO welcomes vision for a gigabit Europe, calls for further incentives for broadband roll-out

First meeting of International Telecommunications Associations at the Regional Telecommunications Congress

The exchange of experiences and issues of interest in the sector, and the sharing of management practices characterized the first World Meeting of International Telecommunications Associations.

The meeting was attended by representatives of AHCIET, ASETA, CANTO, ESOA, ETNO, GSMA, PTC and SAMENA.

European telcos support a swift transition of IANA functions to ICANN

Digital single market proposals need to promote investment, innovation and growth

Today the European Commission announced a set of proposals to speed up the creation of a European digital single market. Alongside a Regulation aimed at achieving a Connected Continent, the Commission has also adopted a Costing and Non-Discrimination Recommendation and a Communication on the Telecommunications Single Market. ETNO welcomes the Recommendation in particular and believes that it will provide the much needed price stability for copper lines and will support NGA investments through the lifting of price regulation.

CEO Statement

Investment incentives and innovation-centric rules to achieve an inclusive gigabit Europe

ETNO Response to European Commission Green Paper: Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World: Growth, Creation and Values

ETNO welcomes the European Commission’s Green Paper ‘Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World: Growth, Creation and Values’ as a timely initiative aimed at better understanding the current developments in the audio-visual sector and the likely trends. ETNO thanks the Commission for the opportunity to contribute to the public consultation and the debate launched by DG Connect on the right way forward, in particular in relation to the eventual need to revise the current regulatory landscape in order to better adapt to new and innovative products/services.

ETNO and GSMA members’ position on the fair use limits in terms of volume

ETNO and GSMA would like to underline that while customers will enjoy free roaming beginning in June 2017, telecom operators will still be required to continue providing for the corresponding technical and commercial arrangements at the wholesale level

Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World

ETNO welcomes the European Commission’s ambitious Green Paper ‘Preparing for a Fully Converged Audiovisual World: Growth, Creation and Values’ as a timely initiative aimed at better understanding the current developments in the audio-visual sector and the likely trends ahead.

ETNO confirms Board Chair, elects new Board Members and new Observer

ETNO confirms Proximus’ Steven Tas as Executive Board Chair, elects new Executive Board Member Vivacom & welcomes Qualcomm as new Observer Member

EU Telcos: “A regulatory reform is needed to put the sector back on track”. Luigi Gambardella (ETNO) interview

The 2013 FT-ETNO Summit “One Single Telecom Market for Europe?” took place in Brussels on 8 October. The event represented an important occasion for discussion, at the highest level, around the future of European telecommunications and marked a turning point in the industry’s strategic development.

During the Summit it was frequently underlined that the sector badly needs a change of pace in order to unleash a new phase of growth. The discussion focused on the recovery of the continental economy, keeping in mind the forthcoming European Council (24-25 October) which will be devoted to the European Digital Agenda.

New BCG report calls for inclusive gigabit society, €660bn required to reach the goal

New BCG report shows that 5G and mix of fixed technologies will meet EU’s connectivity ambitions, boost digital opportunities

ETNO 44th General Assembly Joint Statement

OSLO, Norway – Gathering for their 44^th General Assembly hosted by Telenor, senior representatives from ETNO members adopted ETNO’s key priorities for 2014 and underlined the need to boost the competitiveness of the European electronic communications sector in order for the EU to tap the full potential of its digital economy.

Spectrum: ETNO welcomes Parliament vote, calls for more ambition

Parliament vote a step ahead on the road towards 5G. Telcos ask for ambition on spectrum policy.

ETNO to participate in FT Italy Summit and Broadband Forum

Next Monday, Rome will be the European hub for discussing digital issues. Constantijn Van Oranje, Head of Cabinet of Vice-President Neelie Kroes, will participate in top level debates about broadband deployment and the Connected Continent Regulation.

ETNO’s chairman Luigi Gambardella will put forward the views of Europe’s leading operators in two key events on Monday 18 November.

ETNO participates in the Connected Continent hearing

ETNO's chairman Luigi Gambardella took part today in the European Parliament Industry Committee hearing on the Connected Continent Regulation. The discussion was opened by MEP Pilar Del Castillo, the EP draftswoman for this file. Mr. Gambardella said: "ETNO is committed to work in a constructive way throughout the legislative process with the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission. The proposed Regulation should be mainly seen as an instrument of growth: co-legislators can make a difference as to whether this package will encourage and facilitate the investments necessary to spur that growth". The hearing was organized by the EP industry committee, chaired by MEP Amalia Sartori.

e-Privacy Review: telcos warn that EU industry might be excluded from data economy

Brussels, 21 December 2016 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital communications and services, has today expressed its concern regarding the on-going review of the e-Privacy Directive in a letter jointly signed with the GSMA.

2014: EU telecom operators are ready to build a Smarter Europe - ETNO’s open letter to the Greek Presidency of the European Union

ETNO welcomes the priorities for the telecommunications sector set by the Greek Government for its presidency. ETNO will actively cooperate with the Greek presidency so that it can deliver by 30 June on these measures, which will be key for Europe’s society and economy. One of the measures laid down in the Working Programme is the mid-term review of the “Digital Agenda for Europe”. ETNO is committed to work with the Presidency to ensure that this review sets an ambitious agenda to unleash EU’s potential to invest and innovate at continental and global levels, and inspire visionary leadership accordingly. Such a review must start by setting the priority of a profound revision of the rules for the e-communications sector. 2014 is the year in which we must speed up our effort towards building a Smarter Europe and ETNO is ready to help Europe becoming a fully connected continent.

Press Release: New e-Privacy Regulation: Telcos call for a customer-friendly and innovation-ready approach

Brussels, 10 January 2017 – Today, the European Commission has presented its Proposal for a Regulation on e-Privacy. It is intended to replace Directive 2002/58/EC and it adds to the existing General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

“Old world policies must evolve: we need a new approach to the digital era”

Leading MEP Catherine Trautmann tells ETNO Digital about her vision for the Next Term. A 360° interview on regulation, competition, Connected Continent and the review of the Framework.

Press Release: Connected and automated driving EATA presents deployment roadmap, submits proposal for EU-wide project

Mobile World Congress, Barcelona, 27 February 2017 - The European Automotive Telecom Alliance (EATA) today presented the next steps to make connected and automated driving a reality. During a roundtable discussion chaired by European Commission Vice-President Andrus Ansip and in the presence of Commissioner Günther H. Oettinger, the telecoms and automotive industries reported the latest technology developments and the corresponding societal and economic benefits for European citizens.

“Invest in the jobs of the future, drive demand for ICT” - ETNO ThinkDigital interviews Rene Summer of Ericsson

Ericsson’s Director of Government & Industry Relations Rene Summer tells us about the “Networked Society” vision, and why the debates on jobs, copyright and demand-side policies are all linked.

Press Release: ETNO comment on the draft parliamentary report on the Electronic Communications Code

Brussels, 21 March 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital communications and services, is committed to play a positive and constructive role in the on-going legislative process on the European Electronic Communications Code. The work of the Rapporteur Pilar Del Castillo on the Draft Report as well as the upcoming work whole ITRE Committee are essential to ensure a positive outcome of the legislative process.

A New Digital Agenda For Europe: 30.4.2014

The profile of the digital citizen has dramatically changed since the conception of the Digital Agenda for Europe. Join our #NewDAE14 debate in view of the Italian Presidency of the EU

Press Release: IPSOS survey for ETNO unveils change in digital consumers’ habits across the EU

Brussels, 11 April 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s largest telecom operators, and IPSOS, the global market research leader, have presented today a new consumer survey on the digital habits and expectations of Europeans in ten major EU markets.

ETNO's Chairman Speech at #NewDAE14 workshop

ETNO's Chairman Luigi Gambardella outlined the profile of the new digital consumer, a content-enthusiast and data-hungry consumer who's re-shaping the digital markets. Such markets are dynamic and fast-changing environments driven by innovation and new, disruptive services. The main question then is: which consequences should policy-makers draw from this dramatic change? ETNO offers here some initial reflections on a New Digital Agenda for Europe.

Press Release: Lack of ambition on EU spectrum reform will slow down the 5G ambition - Joint Statement by ETNO and the GSMA

Brussels, 3 May 2017: The telecoms industry is concerned about the current legislative debate on the future of mobile connectivity and spectrum management in Europe. As the European Parliament and Member States discuss amendments to the draft European Electronic Communications Code, ETNO and the GSMA fear that legislators have abandoned their ambitions for 5G roll-out in Europe.

Workshop Material: A New Digital Agenda For Europe, 30.4.2014 - Brussels

ETNO and Telecom Italia co-organized a workshop in view of the Italian Presidency of the EU. The #NewDAE14 workshop gathered over 200 senior representatives from the ICT industry, EU institutions, investors' community, academia, consultancies and consumers organizations across the EU.

The debate focused on how the implications of the evolution of the Internet value chain. The digital consumer has evolved to a content-enthusiast and data-hungry consumer, who is re-shaping the digital markets. Speakers and guests debated the consequences of this change and which consequences should be drawn from that.

Press Release: DSM review: an opportunity to re-launch Europe’s digital ecosystem

Brussels, 10 May 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital communications and services, is a strong supporter of the Digital Single Market Strategy. Consumers are taking-up digital services with enthusiasm and they strongly believe that communications are essential to their daily life. We therefore welcome today’s Review as a unique opportunity to inject new ambition into the on-going legislative processes and match the digital expectations of European citizens.

A new agenda to enable growth for Europe’s digital citizens

ETNO Open Letter to the candidates for the European Commission Presidency

CEO Open Letter

Brussels, 25 May 2017. Open Letter of leading telecom CEOs ahead of the Telecommunications Council (9/6/2017)

ETNO press note on the revised EU General Block Exemption Regulation for State Aid (GBER)

Our views on the GBER presented today by the European Commission

Joint Statement on saving Europe’s 5G ambition

Brussels, 7 June 2017 – Our Associations are concerned about the current legislative debate on telecoms reform. The ambitions set out in the European Commission’s 5G Action Plan and Gigabit Society Communication – which are built on pro-investment and pro-innovation foundations – can only be met if the future European Electronic Communications Code and e-Privacy Regulation create the right conditions for the broad uptake of innovative services and business models. Unfortunately, discussions seem to have lost their focus on the importance of 5G as one of the key technologies that will underpin the ecosystem and the competitiveness of newly connected sectors of the European economy.

ETNO Press Note on the Digital Agenda Scoreboard

Our views on the EC's Digital Agenda Scoreboard 2014 published today

Unions, telcos release joint position on the EECC

Uni Europa Icts and Etno have released today a joint paper on the Electronic Communications Code. Both groups call on legislators to ensure that the code supports current jobs, new job creation as well as growth and investment. The paper also outlines a series of issues. Uni Europa Icts and Etno say they "are concerned that the relationship between this legislation and the creation of more employment and growth are not currently at the heart of the discussions".

ETNO Chairman Luigi Gambardella speaks at Telecom Leaders' Summit 2014 in Dubai

ETNO - GSMA Joint Statement: Protecting consumers while supporting innovation under the ePR

Brussels, 21 June 2017: Today, Marju Lauristin, Member of European Parliament, presents her draft report on the ePrivacy Regulation (ePR) to the LIBE Committee. While we welcome some aspects of the draft report, we would like to express our concern as to the ability of the telecoms sector to deliver more innovation, increased societal benefits and economic growth in the context of an overly restricting approach to the ePR.

ETNO participates in the ICANN 50 meeting

GSMA and ETNO Joint Position: The Proposed European ePrivacy Regulation

Brussels, June 2017. With the proposed ePR progressing through the European Union legislative process, the GSMA and ETNO are calling for the EU to consider the following critical areas to ensure the end result strengthens consumer trust and encourages digital innovation.

ETNO ThinkDigital interviews Christoph Steck, Director of Public Policy & Internet at Telefónica

Read what Christoph Steck has to say about the main challenges facing policymakers in today's Digital World and about the debate on Internet Governance. #ThinkDigital

Press Release: EU telcos call for ambition on 5G and the data economy

Brussels and Tallinn, 18 July 2017 – Today, the EU ministers for competitiveness and telecoms meet in Tallinn to discuss the major pillars of the Digital Single Market, including enhanced connectivity, development of new services and business models as well as the free flow of data.

ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcomes the Estonian Presidency efforts in prioritising network deployment and service innovation in the data economy. Strong 5G networks and new services fuelled by data innovation are the essential enabler of increased European competitiveness, enhanced consumer experience and digital empowerment of a wide series of industrial convergent sectors – including automotive, healthcare and agriculture. 

ETNO urges all EU policymakers to embrace high levels of ambition and ensure that all regulatory activities are streamlined towards the achievement of Europe’s overarching policy goals. Growth, social welfare, and better competitiveness will be only achieved through pro-investment and pro-innovation legal framework. ETNO is highly concerned that the ongoing EU legislative process will not deliver on these goals and instead will result in a backward step compared to the status quo.

ETNO supports the choice of the legal instrument for the future Data Protection framework

Joint Declaration by Industry and RTOs: An Ambitious FP9 Strengthening Europe’s Industrial Leadership

We, the undersigned associations representing European key industrial research and innovation stakeholders, call on the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union to develop an ambitious next EU Research & Innovation Framework Programme (FP9) as a strong support for EU industrial leadership.

ETNO on Juncker's election: "pro-innovation and pro-investment policies will re-ignite Europe's engine"

From Sao Paulo to Istanbul: towards better Internet Governance

ETNO's Chairman speech at the event "From Sao Paulo to Istanbul: towards better Internet Governance", Roma, Camera dei Deputati, 21 July 2014.

Check against delivery.

Paolo Grassia joins the ETNO Team

Brussels, 28 August 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is thrilled to announce a new key hire. Paolo Grassia has joined today as ETNO’s new Head of Regulation.

ETNO statement on recent developments of the U.S. Open Internet debate

EU automotive and telecoms sectors shore up connected and automated driving strategy

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post: Welcome to the data-hungry world

A policy-focused read of the Ericsson Mobility Report 2014 #ThinkDigital

ETNO welcomes the new EU cybersecurity strategy

ETNO has today welcomed the new EU Cybersecurity Strategy

ETNO European Voice Wrap

Joint Industry Letter Tallinn Digital Summit 25 September 2017

The signatories, which represent the tech and telecoms industry as well as start-ups, welcome the upcoming Tallinn Digital Summit. This is a crucial moment for Europe’s heads of state and government to discuss how Europe can fully embrace digital transformation, which is expected to contribute over €1 trillion to Europe’s GDP by 2020. 

Open Letter from ETNO, the European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association, in view of the Telecoms Council

ETNO Press Release - Lead or Lose: Europe is at digital crossroads, telcos can make the difference

Brussels, 27 September 2017 – Europe has lost as much as €100m in telco EBIT each day to digital disruptors and telcos in other regions for the past 10 years, which has impoverished the bloc’s digital economy. However, if industry and regulators embrace transformation, Europe can gain up to €4bn/day by being at the centre of the digital ecosystem, according to Accenture Strategy research conducted for ETNO.

Blog Post - Internet Governance: A Year in Review

ETNO Press Release - Electronic Communications Code: ETNO calls for urgent realignment with original objectives

Brussels, 2 October 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, expresses extreme concern as to the on-going legislative process on the European Electronic Communications Code (“the Code”).

ETNO launches search for a new Director General

ETNO note on the absence of key stakeholders from BEREC’s 5th Forum

Brussels, 18 October 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, appreciates that European Institutions and bodies regularly give all stakeholders the opportunity to express their viewpoint on legislation and regulation governing our sector.

Joint Open Internet Statement: Choice, quality, innovation and investment in an Open Internet

ETNO Press Release: Note of Europe’s leading CEOs on the Electronic Communications Code

The European Electronic Communications Code is no ordinary legislation. This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to unlock investment in world-class infrastructure, which is the core of a successful society and economy. However, key parts of the debate so far risk leading to the opposite. 

Blog Post - Reforming ePrivacy, improving consumer rights

ETNO Press Release: EU telcos issue warning on innovation, call for aligning the ePrivacy with the GDPR

Brussels, 19 October 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, believes that trust is the cornerstone of a thriving digital economy and society. Ensuring consumer trust and confidentiality of communications is critical, but also fully compatible with the ability to use data responsibly to innovate and offer services with a high societal and economic value. This is also at the heart of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview: Hélène Barnekow, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at TeliaSonera

“Let’s create regulatory space for innovation and for the evolution of businesses” #ThinkDigital

ETNO elects new Chair, launches digital leadership plans for 2018

Dubrovnik (Croatia), 26 October 2017 – The Members and Observers of ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, met today in Dubrovnik for the 54th General Assembly. The gathering – chaired by Croatia’s leading telecom operator Hrvatski Telekom – launched ETNO’s vision for 2018 and elected Telia Company’s Phillip Malloch as the new Chairman of the ETNO Executive Board.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview - Net Neutrality: “We need balance, proportionality and common sense”

J. Scott Marcus talks to us about his very timely study entitled “Network Neutrality Revisited: Challenges and Responses in the EU and US”.  ​

ETNO Press Release: ETNO joins the Council of Europe Partnership on promoting an open and safe internet

Strasbourg, 8 November 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is proud to announce it has joined a partnership with the Council of Europe. The partnership, which was launched today at a high level meeting in Strasbourg, is aimed at promoting an open and safe internet, where human rights and the rule of law are upheld.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview - “We need a Digital Single Market that encourages scale and simplicity”

In another ETNO #ThinkDigital interview, Google’s Theo Bertram explains why new investments and innovation are crucial 

ETNO Press Release: EU telcos welcome the IP package, support guidance and self-regulation in the digital age

Brussels, 29 November 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telcos, has today welcomed the European Commission package on “Intellectual Property”.
 
As the very essence of our economies becomes digital, it is important to ensure that all the legislative and non-legislative tools are up-to-date. In this context, we agree with the Commission assessment that the IPR Enforcement Directive 2011/48/EC (IPRED) is still fit for purpose, but it will benefit from a proportionate and innovation-friendly guidance on its harmonised implementation in digital times.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview - Innovation and high-tech jobs, the time is now

In this week’s ETNO #ThinkDigital interview, Barry French, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nokia talks about the challenges and opportunities along the way to a European Single Market.

ETNO statement ahead of today's Telecommunications Council

Brussels, 4 December 2017 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, calls for telecom Ministers to keep the ambition high when discussing historic reforms such as the Electronic Communications Code and the ePrivacy Regulation.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview - Support entrepreneurship, reform the rules of the past

In this week’s ETNO #ThinkDigital interview, Orange’s Deputy CEO Pierre Louette discusses the digital ecosystem, start-ups and how regulation and policymaking can promote a more innovative and investment-conducive environment.

European telecoms: 5G and fibre efforts grow, but the EU investment boom is still to come

Brussels, 7 December 2017 – The European Telecom sector has delivered the highest investment levels of the past 6 years, but investment per capita in the EU is still less than half than in the US and Europe is expected to trail both Asia and the States in the 5G race, despite leadership in some countries.

Joint Letter on the revision of the Payment Service Directive

ETNO Press Release: “2018: consumer choice, economy and citizenship are centre stage”, Phillip Malloch takes up ETNO chairmanship and Swisscom joins the Executive Board

Brussels, 4 January 2018   –   ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, is pleased to announce that Phillip Malloch from Telia Company has taken up ETNO’s Chairmanship as from January 1st, 2018. Following his election by the General  Assembly in October 2017, Mr. Malloch succeeds Steven Tas from Proximus, who served for the past three years.     

ETNO ThinkDigital interview - Global trade agreements in a fast-changing world

As Chairman of ETNO’s newly formed Trade Working Group and Manager for Latin American Affairs and Trade Policy at Telefónica, David Frautschy Heredia shares his thoughts on trade negotiations and their place in the new Digital landscape: “Trade agreements should incorporate a chapter on the Digital Economy, settling a new scenario of market openness, with equivalent responsibilities and obligations for all market participants” #ThinkDigital

Cybersecurity: ETNO calls for responsibility across the ecosystem and incentives to industry-led solutions

Brussels, 11 January 2018 – European digital leadership strictly depends on enforcing security. This is the key message in ETNO’s first 2018 Position Paper on the EU Cybersecurity package, which comes as the EU institutions speed up the policy and legislative debate around this key challenge.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post: Europe’s digital plans: stakeholders converge on need for action

“The outlook is positive. If all players work together swiftly within the ecosystem, the EU will succeed in creating a Connected Continent that will lead the way in Digital.” #ThinkDigital

Joint Statement of the European Telecom Social Partners on Reconciling Innovation and Privacy Protection to the Benefit of the European Data Economy

Brussels, January 2018 - The value of the European data economy could reach up to 740 billion euros, or 4% of the European Union’s total GDP, by 2020. Smart solutions such as big data analytics, the Internet of Things, and connected driving thus have the potential to trigger a fourth industrial revolution.

Joint Stakeholder statement on the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)

Att: Delegations to the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD)

EU telcos: the EECC cannot fail the 5G, fibre and digital services objective

Brussels, 31 Jan. 2018 – As the global race to 5G and AI picks up, European telecom investment is the first step to digitally empower citizens and secure the Continent’s competitiveness. However, the Electronic Communications Code (EECC) negotiations might fail the objective and result in a worsened climate for digital growth. Senior representatives from Europe’s leading telecom operators meet today in Brussels to call for improvements to the EECC, or maintain the current set of rules. This comes as the EU institutions move to a crucial phase of discussions on the EECC negotiations and ePrivacy Regulation – which will reshape Europe’s telecoms laws and set the tone for the investment environment.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview – Aiming for a stronger Europe with less national division

Telekom Austria's CEO Hannes Ametsreiter looks at the changes in the telecom industry and how policy should adapt: “We are no longer just telecommunication providers. We have to transform into digital companies, driving digital business and the lifestyle of the 21st century”

Joint Statement of the European and United States Telecommunications Industry on the occasion of the 15th EU-U.S. Information Society Dialogue

Better Connectivity, Regulatory Modernization, Data Innovation

The Path Forward for a Fast-Changing Digital Sector

Washington D.C., Brussels, 1 February 2018 – ETNO and USTelecom are pleased that the European Union and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to the EU-U.S. Information Society Dialogue (ISD), which will be held on 1st February in Brussels.

Press Release: ETNO welcomes the Digital Single Market Strategy and asks for swift and concrete actions

Joint Statement of DIGITALEUROPE, ETNO and the GSMA on spectrum reform for 5G

Brussels, 19.2.2018 – Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl – Director-General of DIGITALEUROPE, Lise Fuhr – Director General of ETNO and Afke Schaart – VP and Head of Europe at the GSMA, issued the following joint statement:

“It is the time for bold decisions on Europe’s 5G future. It is the time for shifting from political narratives to regulatory delivery. It is the time to take credible and decisive action on spectrum reform in the EU.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post: MEP Hökmark’s #ThinkDigital vision of the future

With the publication of the European Commission's Digital Single Market Strategy, MEP Hökmark reiterates his view following the first #ThinkDigital event on 22 April 2015: “It is in our hands to give Europe its strength and leadership back: the more advanced services our networks will allow for, the more businesses will invest in them.”

UNI Europa and ETNO join the Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition

Brussels, 21st February 2018 – Today, the social partners UNI Europa and ETNO – the European Telecommunication Network Operators’ Association (ETNO) – joined the Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview – Net Neutrality, Data Protection and more in the new world of the Internet of Things

Imagine ordering a pizza simply by pushing a button on the door of your fridge - On the occasion of the 2015 edition of the annual “Internet of Things European Summit” in Brussels, ETNO took the opportunity to talk to Francisco J. Jariego, Telefonica’s Director of Industrial IoT (Internet of Things) and Member of the Executive Committee of Telefonica’s I+D (Research & Development). 

ETNO Press Release: EU leadership in digital services: telcos call for fostering consumer choice with the EECC

Brussels, 27 February 2018 – Communications, banking, search and many other consumer services are today being delivered digitally. As competition in the online services industry becomes a key political issue, ETNO – the Association representing Europe’s leading telcos, called on EU legislators to ensure that service regulation in the Electronic Communications Code (EECC) leads to greater consumer choice and more innovation.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview – ICANN and the transition of the IANA stewardship: Ensuring a unified, global Internet for all

ETNO’s #ThinkDigital team interviews Jean-Jacques Sahel, Vice-President, Europe at the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN): “A successful transition would ensure the continuation of the Internet as a global platform for innovation, by maintaining its open, secure, stable and interoperable nature for all users across the globe."

ETNO Note on Spectrum Negotiations

Brussels, 5 March 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is evaluating the results of the Electronic Communications Code negotiations on spectrum policy. Such results fall short of the initial ambition of 5G needs and they have to be assessed in the context of all the remaining parts of the Code. This is essential to ascertain whether European citizens and businesses will benefit from higher levels of investment and innovation, which are essential for timely and inclusive 5G roll-out.

Mobile internet price comparisons – a review of the Digital Fuel Monitor methodology

Joint Statement of DIGITALEUROPE, ETNO and the GSMA on the outcome of the spectrum trilogue

Brussels, 9.3.2018 – Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl – Director-General of DIGITALEUROPE, Lise Fuhr – Director General of ETNO and Afke Schaart – VP and Head of Europe at the GSMA, issued the following joint statement:

ETNO ThinkDigital interview – EU Ambassador to the US David O'Sullivan talks internet platforms, TTIP, privacy and protectionism concerns

EECC: current policy options will not deliver fibre and 5G to EU citizens

Brussels, 19 March 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, called today on the European Commission and on legislators to urgently fix the current text of the Electronic Communications Code.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post: Digital technologies fundamental to our sustainable future

Luis Neves, GeSI Chairman: "With GHG emissions rising and Europe still recovering from the financial crisis, there is an increased sense of urgency for a comprehensive strategy to achieve low-carbon growth. ICT, with its cross-sector role, is central to this approach."

Plea of European Telecom DPOs and Heads of Privacy on e-Privacy Regulation

Brussels, 22 March 2018 - As Data Protection Officers (DPO) and Heads of Privacy of Europe’s leading telecommunications operators, we are working full speed ahead to bring our companies in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as of 25th May 2018.  We consider the GDPR as an opportunity to further enhance the privacy of our customers and users in an increasingly digitised society.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview – International Law firm Pinsent Masons’ Diane Mullenex on achieving the degree of super-connectivity that the world demands.

Diane Mullenex, French lawyer and UK Solicitor: “Regulation in my view, must not inhibit investment or innovation in the development and deployment of high-speed networks to achieve the degrees of super-connectivity that the world demands” #ThinkDigital

ETNO Press Release: "EU budget: we support ambitious funding for a stronger digital Europe"

Brussels, 27.3.2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, supports the European Commission ambitions on strengthening the EU budget for digitisation.

ETNO Think Digital interview – Putting Europe back in the driver’s seat.

David Cantor, Attorney & Advisor, Telecommunications Law & Strategy: “My own feeling is that the only revolutionary way forward, with a real chance of putting Europe back in the driver’s seat, is to repeal the sector ex-ante regulatory framework.” #ThinkDigital

EU New Deal for Consumers: ETNO and GSMA Call for Consistent Standards Across Services in Modernising Consumer Laws

Brussels, 11 April 2018 – In today’s digital age, receiving an SMS to safely finalise an online payment, using an instant messaging app, or enjoying seamless connectivity and compelling content at home or on the go have become commonplace. As consumer habits evolve, it is essential that consumer rules also adapt accordingly.

Statement by Steven Tas, Executive Chairman of ETNO, on the TSM Regulation

Joint Note of the European Telecom Social Partners: Our concern regarding the negotiations on the European Electronic Communications Code

Brussels, 19 April 2018 – UNI Europa, the European trade union federation representing service workers, and ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, jointly express their concern with regard to the on-going negotiations for a European Electronic Communications Code (EECC).

Joint Statement - Telecom operators welcome the Justice and Home Affairs Council agreement on the General Data Protection Regulation and call for an urgent repeal of the ePrivacy Directive

Statement of Europe’s CEOs on finalising the Electronic Communications Code

As CEOs and Presidents of Europe’s leading telecommunication companies, we have been vocal supporters of the ambitions outlined in the Digital Single Market (DSM) Strategy. Europe needs an environment that supports innovation, benefits consumers and enables increased investment in a competitive global economy. 

Telecom CEOs' letter to Heads of State and Government ahead of the European Council of 25 June 2015

Here is a copy of the letter that a group of Telecom CEOs addressed to the Heads of State and Government on 16 June 2015.

P2B Regulation and EU Data Package: promoting a European ecosystem for innovation

Brussels, 27 April 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is keen to engage in the debate on the European Data Package and the Platform-to-Business (P2B) Regulation, presented this week in Brussels by the European Commission. Such debate will shape an important part of the digital value chain.

FT-ETNO 2015 - 13 October: Opening keynote and date announced

Net Neutrality and BEREC guidelines: ensuring compliance and innovation

Experts from Europe’s leading telecom and cable operators have analysed the BEREC Guidelines on the Open Internet Regulation (EU 2015/2120). We summarise here the main findings from the joint ETNO, GSMA and Cable Europe evaluation (full version available here).

ETNO ThinkDigital interview - Transforming Europe into a Digital Economy by giving businesses the tools to invest in the future

Kjell-Morten Johnsen, Executive Vice President and Head of Telenor’s European operations : “I think there is no other power that can save so much time and energy as the internet services whether broadband or mobile” #ThinkDigital

3 good reasons to be happy with the GDPR (and 1 not to be)

By Cristina Vela and Paolo Grassia

GPDR… many appear to be frustrated at the wave of consent-seeking e-mails flooding the inbox these days, but we believe that there are at least 3 good reasons to be happy about the new General Data Protection Regulation (GPDR). There is also 1 reason to be unhappy about it, but let us explain more.

ETNO statement following the European Council of 25-26 June 2015

Cable Europe, ETNO, and GSMA call on Ministers on the ePrivacy Regulation

Brussels, 30 May 2018

Dear Ministers,

Last week, we all greeted the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) taking effect as a new high standard for all players in the digital economy. Cable Europe, GSMA and ETNO’s members have made implementation of the GDPR their highest priority, since the protection of customer’s personal data is at the core of our industry’s business model.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - Sweden vs. Slovenia: What we can learn from hard and soft approaches to net neutrality

Roslyn Layton on Net Neutrality: “Soft rules are associated with higher telecom infrastructure investment - hard rules are overkill” #ThinkDigital

Electronic Communications Code: ETNO expresses concern and proposes 5 urgent actions

Brussels, 31 May 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, is following with attention and concern the final discussions on the European Electronic Communications Code (“the Code”) that are poised to conclude next week.

ETNO statement on the Telecom Single Market agreement

Statement of the Executive Board Chairman and of the Director General of ETNO on intra-EU calls

“Intra-EU calls regulation is unjustified and has no legal grounds”

Brussels, 4 June 2018: “The companies we represent are the main investors in Europe’s digital networks and services, with 70% of the sector investment. At present, our engineers and service developers are busy working on the historic transition to fibre networks and on ensuring a timely launch of 5G.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview - A Bulgarian telco’s perspective on stimulating innovative ideas, local start-ups and getting the EU’s priorities right

Janet Zaharieva, Chief Regulatory Advisor to the Managing Board, Vivacom: “We believe that support for young and ambitious people with good ideas is the cornerstone of a better future for local and global businesses as well as for society as a whole” #ThinkDigital

ETNO believes the Electronic Communications Code is a missed opportunity

Brussels, 6 June 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, believes that the Electronic Communications Code (the Code) represented a once in a decade chance to simplify and improve the EU rules for the sector in the interest of European citizens and businesses. This opportunity has been missed. The Code will not ignite the much needed rush to invest in 5G and fibre networks and it will add complexity to an already burdensome system.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview – The right balance between investment and competition

Achour Messas, Partner at Mazars, Head of Telecom sector, explains the results of Mazar's Telecom Study 2015 which indicates that investment is the key to success for telecom operators in Europe. 

Automotive and telecom sectors welcome comprehensive approach to advance Connected and Automated Driving, agreed today by EU member states

Gothenburg, 19 June 2018 – The European Automotive and Telecom Alliance (EATA) supports the push by EU member states to address challenges to getting connected and automated vehicles on Europe’s roads in a far-reaching, coordinated manner.

Press Release: ETNO comments on the Draft BEREC Report on Oligopoly Analysis and Regulation

Diversity is a cornerstone of innovation: ETNO joins #Digital4Her event

Brussels, 19 June 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, has joined today Commissioner Mariya Gabriel and industry leaders in their effort to advocate for including more women in digital sectors. A senior delegation of ETNO, including Proximus’ CEO Dominique Leroy and ETNO’s Director General Lise Fuhr, took part into the VIP discussion at the #Digital4Her event.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - Do we still need the ePrivacy Directive?

Global law firm DLA Piper looks into solutions for harmonising privacy rules in light of the on-going discussions related to the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). #ThinkDigital

Battle for YOUR vote: time to speak out

By Gabriel Daia

As the EU prepares for the 2019 European elections, reports show that the young generation of the old Continent lacks interest in national and EU politics.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - A Safer Internet: Unleashing opportunities for the young too.

ETNO's Child Protection Task Team Chair Pedro Gonçalves, Manager, International Relations at Portugal Telecom, elaborates on the role of telcos in creating a safer Internet for all. #ThinkDigital

ETNO welcomes the Austrian Presidency’s approach to ePrivacy, asks Member States to support future-oriented rules

Brussels, 13 July 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, welcome proposals to ensure that the ePrivacy Regulation is better fit for global digital competition, ensuring trust and consistency across legal instruments.

ETNO ThinkDigital interview – Filling the e-skills gap in Europe

Deutsche Telekom (DT)’s Markus Lecke, Programme Manager for corporate HR-Development, talks to ETNO about future ICT skills requirements, what his company is doing to prepare for the future expert gap and how to make the sector more attractive to women. 

The Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI) launches new Digital Access Index, prove positive correlation between digitization and the Sustainable Development Goals

ETNO is proud to share a new, innovative GeSI-Accenture report on the role of telecom companies and of the ICT sector in enabling the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. ETNO and leading telcos such as Deutsche Telekom, AT&T, Verizon, Swisscom, TDC, Telenor and TIM are members of GeSI.

Press Release: EU consumer survey reveals major changes in communication habits

Forget public payphones and printed phone books, users have new digital priorities

ETNO position paper on improving cross-border access to electronic evidence in criminal matters

Law Enforcement and Judicial Authorities increasingly rely on the analysis of data generated by the widespread use of electronic communications services and devices. The ability of individuals and organisations to easily store and share data across borders, through major service providers that often operate from outside the European Union, means that even an ordinary crime with a clear national or local dimension can easily acquire a transnational relevance.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview: Aiming for the highest standard of 5G in Europe

Pierre-Yves Danet, Head of European collaborative Research at Orange Labs and Chair of ETNO's Research and Innovation Working Group shares advice on what Europe can do to remain a global leader in the race for 5G and how start-ups and telcos can collaborate. 

ETNO renews committment to Transatlantic dialogue, meets with US regulators and stakeholders

Washington DC, 19 July 2018 – A delegation from the ETNO Association, representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, visited US regulators and stakeholders this week for a fact-finding mission.

Joint Industry Statement - Powerful digital highways for Europe’s Connected and Automated Driving.

The Automotive and telecom industries have launched joint EU Dialogue at the Frankfurt IAA under the auspices of Commissioner Oettinger

ETNO-GSMA Response to European Commission proposed Directives on Digital Taxation

European Commission (‘EC’) proposals for Council Directives on the common system of a digital services tax (‘DST’) on revenues resulting from the provision of certain digital services, and laying down rules relating to the corporate taxation of a significant digital presence.

ETNO ThinkDigital Interview: “I cannot predict the future, but we can only expect exciting new digital developments.”

Luis Jorge Romero, ETSI’s Director General explains how standardisation creates a healthy business environment and benefits consumers in the latest #ThinkDigital interview.

ETNO blogpost – achieving improvements on Copyright legislation without hampering the innovation in the Digital Single Market

This autumn, after a dramatic vote in the European Parliament that sparked worldwide debate, the Copyright Directive will enter the final stage of negotiation. We spoke with Caterina Bortolini, Chairwoman of the ETNO working group on the Digital Single Market, which gathers experts on audiovisual services, media and content regulation from Europe’s leading telecom operators.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog Post - New CERRE study: Concentration in the mobile communications industry generates a true economic trade-off

"A merger will have static price effects to the detriment of consumers but also dynamic benefits for consumers, as investments can enhance their demand for services." Professor Bruno Liebhaberg, #ThinkDigital

EU2019: let Europe craft an ambitious industrial policy for global digital leadership

Top telecom CEOs gather in Brussels to discuss their input to the future EU policy agenda

Brussels, 15 October 2018 – A group of leading telecom CEOs gathered today in Brussels, on the occasion of the annual FT-ETNO Summit, to put forward their vision for Europe’s next policy agenda.

Press release: ETNO proposes a number of changes to selected articles of the ITRs, in view of the WCIT (World Conference on International Telecommunications)

ETNO, the voice of Europe’s leading e-communications services and network providers, submitted to the ITU (International Telecommunications Union) proposals for changes to the ITRs providing for a new sustainable model for the Internet based on commercial agreements between undertakings.

ETNO launches 2019 strategic plans, focuses on global digital leadership and innovation

Limassol (Cyprus), 26 October 2018 – The Members and Observers of ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading providers of digital networks and services, met today in Cyprus for the 56th General Assembly. During the meeting, chaired by Cyprus leading telecom operator Cyta, ETNO announced its strategic plans for 2019 – including the launch of an Artificial Intelligence Task Force. Members also renewed the mandates of the Chairman of the Executive Board, Phillip Malloch, and of the Director General, Lise Fuhr.

Press release: ETISALAT joins ETNO as new observer member

ETISALAT joins ETNO as observer member, strengthening further ETNO presence in the Middle East Region. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and with operations in 17 markets across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, Etisalat Group is one of the world’s fastest growing telecommunications groups serving more than 167 million customers with Internet, voice, broadcast, roaming and corporate data services from both fixed and mobile platforms.

Europe’s leadership in connected and automated driving depends on technology-neutral, innovation-oriented policies

Dear Minister,

Serious concern has arisen in the telecoms and transport industries over the restrictive content of the forthcoming Delegated Act on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS).

Press release: EU 2012 Digital Agenda Scoreboard: ETNO welcomes progress so far and calls for further action to achieve DAE targets

ETNO welcomes continued progress towards achieving the Digital Agenda goals as highlighted in the Digital Agenda scoreboard issued today

ETNO signs the ‘’Paris call for trust and security in Cyberspace’’ and joins Women4Cyber initiative

Paris 12 November 2018 – ETNO, the Association representing Europe’s leading telecom operators, joined the early supporters of the French Government’s ‘’Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace”, launched today by President Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of the Paris Digital Week. In this context, ETNO’s Director General Lise Fuhr has also joined the Women4Cyber initiative.

Press release: WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: ETNO REITERATES ITS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

Following World Environment Day on June 5, ETNO would like to recall the unique potential of the Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) in combating climate change and protecting the environment.

ETNO stands ready to support a positive implementation of the Electronic Communications Code

Brussels, Strasbourg, 14 November 2018 – The European Parliament will hold today a plenary debate and vote on the European Electronic Communications Code (the Code).

Press release: ETNO calls for a sustainable model of Internet development and for a level playing field in the Internet value chain

EU and US Authorities should put at the centre of their ICT dialogue the sustainability of the current Internet model and the need for a level playing field for all players offering e-communications to citizens. This is the message to be conveyed by Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, on the occasion of meetings, in Washington DC, with US officials and industry representatives this week.

Artificial Intelligence: ETNO welcomes EU ethics guidelines, calls for supporting European innovation and investment

Brussels, 18.12.2018 – Better customer service, intelligent networks and advanced analytics for social good. These are just some of the ways in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) is empowering positive transformation in digital communications services and networks. In this context, ETNO welcomes the draft “AI ethics guidelines for trustworthy AI” launched today by the European Commission’s High-Level Expert Group on AI.

Press release: Treaty to give new impetus to ICT sector development: European telcos propose constructive input to global ICT treaty

European operators meeting at a joint ITU and ETNO event have agreed that upcoming revisions to the treaty that governs international telecommunications should act as a positive catalyst for the future development of ICT, to benefit all countries.

Press release: ETNO and ITU bring together policy makers and industry players from Europe and beyond to discuss future of International Telecommunications Rules.

High-level policy makers and industry representatives from Europe and beyond will gather in Brussels on April 19th for a workshop organised jointly by ETNO and the ITU on ‘Revising the International Telecommunication Regulations (ITRs) - Preparations for WCIT 2012’. The workshop is to be hosted at Belgacom’s Headquarters and will be opened by Didier Bellens, Belgacom CEO, and Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Board Chairman.

Press release: FTTH Council Conference - Investors need a strong political signal: a reasonable increase in copper prices over time above inflation would clearly indicate a change of direction.

Speaking today at the closing plenary of the FTTH Council Europe Conference that gathers more than 3000 stakeholders in Munich, Luigi Gambardella, Chair of ETNO Executive Board of ETNO, shared the vision of leading European telecoms operators on how to accelerate the deployment of high speed broadband in line with the objectives of the Digital Agenda for Europe

Press release: ETNO Costing Workshop

Approximately  one  hundred participants from the European Commission, national regulators and  Member States as well as industry representatives, academics and investors participated in an ETNO workshop entitled ”How to boost investment in next generation access networks: the impact of regulated prices on investments”. The workshop was organised under the auspices of the London School of Economics.

Press release: Review of the General Data Protection Directive

 The proposal for a General Data Protection Regulation addresses the sector’s need for more harmonized data protection rules and for a comprehensive set of rules for all players in the ICT value chain. It should guarantee the necessary balance between data protection and innovation.

Press release: ETNO second annual economic report

The continuous revenue decline in 2010 and 2011 for Europe’s telecoms sector despite overall timid economic growth confirms that structural rather than cyclical changes are shaping the sector, reveals the second ETNO Annual Economic Report published today.

Press release: Luigi Gambardella is ETNO’s new Executive Board Chairman

How to keep the viability of the current economic Internet model is the key policy issue that will be at the centre of ETNO's activities in the year to come:

How to keep the viability of the current economic Internet model despite traffic growth, driven primarily by video applications, and how to afford the huge network investment needed to meet the European Digital Agenda objectives are the two key market and policy issues that will be at the centre of ETNO's activities in the year to come, said Luigi Gambardella, who is holding the chairmanship of ETNO’s Executive Board as of January 1st, 2011.

The European Electronic Communications Code

Press release: Meeting with the Hungarian Presidency of the EU

ETNO insists on importance of NGA investment to meet Digital Agenda targets and raises concerns about special tax on telecoms:

Brussels - Improving conditions for private sector investment in high speed broadband networks in line with the Digital Agenda objectives should be the key policy priority of the forthcoming Hungarian Presidency of the EU, reiterated ETNO members on the occasion of a luncheon meeting today with Mr. László Tóth, Head of Department, Office of the Hungarian Minister of State for Infocommunications Zsolt Nyitrai

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog: Audiovisual Media Services in Europe - Adapting rules to the new innovative landscape

Press release: ETNO adopts a new internal organisation to better address new market and technology challenges

ETNO launched today a new internal organisation, including a repositioning around seven main working groups: Competitive Markets, Digital Society, Research and Innovation, Corporate Responsibility, Digital Single Market, Data Protection, Trust and Security and, Spectrum policies.

ETNO ThinkDigital blog: Member States go pro-innovation and pro-investment

Press release: Neelie Kroes, Digital Agenda Commissioner to participate in ETNO Innovation Day on eHealth

About 150 representatives from authorities, medical organisations, patients and businesses are joining the ETNO Innovation Day on eHealth in Brussels on 25 January to discuss remaining obstacles to take up of e-health applications throughout the EU

5G empowering vertical industries

Press release: ETNO 3rd Innovation Day

ETNO calls for strong stakeholder co-operation to boost e-health take up throughout Europe: ETNO called today for a strong cooperation between all actors in healthcare across the EU in order to remove legal and organisational barriers and accelerate the take up of e-health by medical community and users.  ETNO 3rd Innovation Day was opened by Commissioner Neelie Kroes and attended by about 200 representatives from the EU institutions, national and regional authorities, medical and patient organisations, telecoms operators and vendors.

ETNO ThinkDigital Blog: Dutch Presidency action plan to seize digital opportunities

Press release: Data Protection Day

ETNO calls for more harmonised data protection rules which reflect the evolution of the market and for the same rules to apply to all players: Only effective data protection will help the completion of the internal market, by building trust and confidence, and, only a truly internal market will enhance the protection of privacy, says ETNO on the occasion of the EU Data Protection Day.

The Internet of Things: a boost for European Industry

Press release: ETNO launches a research framework partnership with the London School of Economics

 ETNO, the European Telecommunications Network Operators Association, and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) agreed today to engage on a research project that will advance knowledge in the area of telecoms and IT related business strategy and policy development. 

Giving Europe the means to leverage Big Data opportunities

Press release: Safer Internet Day: Protection of minors is a key priority for ETNO members

 To mark Safer Internet Day 2011, ETNO today launches a new web page which gives an overview of ETNO members’ services and awareness campaigns aimed at a safer use of ICT services by young users.

European standards for a well functioning digital society

Press release: EU-US Information Society Dialogue: ETNO and EABC call for a transatlantic digital agenda

How to ensure that ICT policies reflect the increasingly global environment is the main theme of a Digital Economy Workshop hosted on 9-10 February jointly by ETNO and the European-American Business Council (EABC) in the confines of the EU-US Information Society Dialogue, with the participation among others of Robert Madelin, Director General DG Information Society and Media, William Kennard, US Ambassador to the EU and Lawrence Strickling, NTIA.

Digital start-ups and the European Union

Press release: Spectrum for Society

ETNO calls for a rapid opening of digital dividend frequency bands to accelerate broadband deployment in rural and remote areas: Society as a whole will benefit from the opening of additional spectrum bands to mobile services as it will contribute to bridge the digital divide and respond to increasing consumer demand for mobile data services, says ETNO on the occasion of a joint industry workshop hosted by MEP Gunnar Hökmark (EPP, SE), rapporteur for the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP) Decision in the Industry, Trade and Research Committee.

Press release: Roadmap for moving to a competitive low carbon economy in 2050: The potential of the ICT sector to assist in achieving CO2 emissions reductions throughout the economy must be fully exploited

ETNO welcomes the newly adopted Commission roadmap to achieve the ambitious targets of reducing domestic green house gas emissions by 80% by 2050. ETNO, who represents Europe’s leading e-communications operators and main investors in tomorrow’s services and networks, calls however on the European Commission to better exploit the potential of broadband-enabled innovative applications for all the sectors of the economy to limit their carbon footprint.

Press release: Joint Industry Statement: Review of EU legal framework for data protection

Europe’s electronic communications operators call for a user-centric privacy framework that supports innovation: Europe’s leading fixed and mobile e-communications operators advocate for data protection rules to be flexible, technologically neutral and horizontally apply to all economic sectors and actors offering online services to EU citizens.

Press release: DATA PROTECTION: ETNO welcomes Commissioner Reding’s push for more transparency for consumers and for same rules to apply to all actors processing personal data

Data Protection is a Fundamental Right of citizens that should be fully respected by all providers of services targeted at EU citizens, regardless of where the data is processed, recalled ETNO on the occasion of a meeting today of its Executive Board with Viviane Reding, Vice-President of the European Commission for Justice, Fundamental Rights and Citizenship.

Press release: Intellectual Property Rights

ETNO jointly with Cable Europe, ECTA, EuroISPA and GSMA Europe call on President Barroso in a joint declaration for clear and future-proof IPR rules for Europe to fully realise the potential benefits of e-commerce and ICT. 

Press release: Review of Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement Directive: Proposed changes to the IPR enforcement regime for the online market are premature and new business models need to be adopted

The existing framework provides sound and balanced rules  and there is no evidence  of the need to  change the current provisions to enforce Intellectual Property Rights, says ETNO in its response to the EC public consultation on a possible revision of the IPR Enforcement Directive which ended on 31 March.  The recent implementation of the directive in the member states and the lack of complete information about its functioning make the revision of the directive premature.

Press release: Pricing of wholesale access products needs to be aligned with European Digital Agenda 2020 universal broadband goals

Pricing of copper-based wholesale access products will have a direct impact on the business case for NGA, finds the new report by Plum Consulting on “Costing methodology and the transition to next generation access” presented today at an ETNO Expert Workshop on Price Regulation and Costing Methodology in the transition from copper to next generation access.

Press release: Joint statement by ETNO and GSMA

EP Committee vote on the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme: The swift opening of the digital dividend for mobile services is key for the success of the Digital Agenda for Europe – In view of the vote on the report by the rapporteur MEP Günnar Hökmark, in the EP Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, ETNO and GSMA would like to reiterate the key importance of spectrum to bridge the digital divide and achieve the objectives of the Digital Agenda.

Press release: ETNO supports EU-US agreement on trade-related ICT principles

The European Commission and the U.S. Government, under the framework of the Transatlantic Economic Council (TEC), have agreed on a set of 10 fundamental principles for trade in information and communication technology (ICT) services. The EU and the US, in cooperation with other countries, will promote these principles worldwide in order to support the global development of ICT networks and services and allow service providers to compete for contracts with local incumbents on an equal footing.

Press release: Open Internet - Maintaining the openness of the Internet and supporting new and innovative business models to foster network development

Providers of e-communications networks and services  are fully committed to the open Internet and reiterate the key importance for consumers to be able to access services, applications and lawful content of their choice, as provided for by EU Directives, says ETNO on the occasion of the publication today by Neelie Kroes, Vice President of the European Commission for the Digital Agenda of a Communication on the Open Internet.

Press release: JOINT ETNO-GSMA STATEMENT: Telecoms operators welcome EP support to opening of the digital dividend for mobile broadband services

Through today’s plenary vote on the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme, the European Parliament reaffirmed that the opening of additional spectrum for mobile services is an essential element in bridging the digital divide and meeting the broadband targets of the Digital Agenda.

Press release: ETNO Event: “What Innovation for Telecom Operators”

Trento, June 24 2011: ETNO will gather the Heads of Innovation, Strategies and Networks from the main European e-communications players on the occasion of an international workshop. They will address innovative developments in broadband applications, services and networks.

Press release: SAMENA – ETNO Joint CEO Leadership Event to Address the Need for Developing Sustainable Business Models for the Internet

The future of the economic model for the Internet will be one of the main topics of discussion in SAMENA and ETNO’s joint event, the CEO Leadership Event, to be held on June 9 in Istanbul, Turkey.

Press release: EU GREEN WEEK 24-27 May, Resource efficiency: broadband and ICT-enabled solutions have a role to play:

Through its participation in the GREEN WEEK exhibition, ETNO will highlight the key role of broadband-enabled solutions and more energy-efficient broadband equipment in helping businesses and citizens to save energy and resources.

Press release: ETNO welcomes G8 focus on the future of Internet -

ETNO welcomes the inclusion of the future of the Internet on the Agenda of the G8 Heads of State in Deauville on 26-27, confirming the key role Internet is playing in daily lives and businesses and the need to give a global answer to the challenges that the whole industry along the digital value chain is facing. ETNO is taking part in the two-day eG8 Forum on 24-25 May hosted by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, to gather views from industry stakeholders on the future of the Internet. 

Press release: Joint Industry Statement on the European Commission's proposed strategy on a single market for intellectual property rights.

Press release: ETNO welcomes entry into force of the new co-operation procedure under the revised EU Regulatory Framework

Today marks the deadline for transposition of the revised Regulatory Framework in member states and the entry into force of a new co-operation procedure on national regulatory measures involving the Group of European Regulators, BEREC, the European Commission and national regulators.

Press release: EU Digital Scoreboard

ETNO members welcome progress on 2013 broadband development objective but share Commission’s concerns over declining network investment: The digital scoreboard confirms a decline in revenue of telecoms operators and in their investments for the second year in row, despite rapidly increasing data traffic and consumer take up of broadband, says ETNO who represents leading investors in fast and ultra-fast broadband networks.

Press release: ETNO-SAMENA Leadership Event:

More than 40 Chief Executives Officers from leading telecoms players in growing markets of Middle East, North Africa, South East Asia and Europe gathered in Istanbul for the SAMENA-ETNO Leadership Event hosted by Turk Telekom. CEOs discussed current challenges faced by the sector in the light of rapidly growing traffic and the need for investment in additional bandwidth and capacity, and discuss how to ensure the sustainability of the Internet.

Press release: Joint ETNO DIGITALEUROPE statement on Digital Agenda Assembly.

Leading Industry called on European decision makers to accelerate on delivering the European Digital single market and develop  an investment-conducive environment for fast and ultra-fast broadband infrastructure.DIGITALEUROPE and ETNO, who together represent the ICT manufacturing and consumer electronics sectors and telecommunications network industries called on European decision makers to take swift action to support the continued up take of critical digital agenda items on the occasion of the inaugural Digital Assembly due to take place in Brussels on Thursday and Friday 16-17 June 2011.

Press release: ETNO welcomes the Polish Presidency and calls for accelerating the opening up of spectrum as a key condition for bridging the digital divide

In a manifesto published today on the occasion of the start of the incoming Polish Presidency of the EU, ETNO outlines its key priorities for boosting the Digital Agenda, which include spectrum, conditions for NGA investment and a digital single market for content.

Press release: CEO Roundtable - ETNO welcomes balanced joint industry recommendations on addressing sector challenges

ETNO notes the efforts of internet economy players to develop common recommendations to achieve the Digital Agenda, through the CEO Round Table process initiated by Commissioner Kroes, in which several ETNO members and observers have actively participated.

Press release: Two representatives of ETNO member companies nominated as Vice-Chairs of Information, Computer and Communication (ICCP) Committee of BIAC

BIAC's ICCP committee is contributing to OECD policies in fields such as Internet Policy, broadband/telecommunications infrastructure and regulation, Online Security and Privacy, Online/Digital Content issues, Mobile Communications, ICT services innovation/Cloud Computing, ICT and the Environment, ICT Statistics (economic social impacts of the internet).

Press release: ETNO-Financial Times 2011 CEO Summit – CEOs from leading telecoms operators and ICT equipment manufacturers from Europe and beyond to discuss future of digital economy

Chief Executive Officers of telecoms operators and ICT equipment manufacturers will gather on October 3rd in Brussels at the summit hosted by ETNO and the Financial Times. The CEO Summit will build upon the CEO Roundtable hosted by Commissioner Kroes last July 13th and will provide further input from the industry side on how to achieve the Digital Agenda targets.“Starting from the industry recommendations presented at the CEO Roundtable closing meeting, the aim of the ETNO-FT summit is to further stimulate the debate  amongst industry players on how policies can contribute to boosting private investment in high speed broadband networks and encouraging new business models and services to emerge,”  says Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chairman. 

Press release: ETNO-Financial Times 2011 CEO Summit

About 30 Chief Executive Officers of the leading telecoms operators and ICT equipment manufacturers from Europe and beyond, gathered today at the Digital Agenda Summit hosted by ETNO and the Financial Times, with Commissioner Kroes as keynote speaker.

Press release: Connecting Europe: funding for broadband networks must be accompanied by policies that ensure private investments in infrastructures.

Press release: BEREC consultation on transparency and net neutrality

ETNO reiterates its commitment to transparency as a building block of an open Internet.

Press release: Revision of EU Data Protection Framework

Full confidence in the protection and security of personal data is a key condition for EU consumers to further embrace broadband services, in line with the objectives of the EU Digital Agenda. The review of the Data Protection Directive is an opportunity to modernize and adapt the existing data protection provisions to reflect important technological and societal developments that have occurred in recent years as a result of becoming a globally connected society.

Press release: Towards a low carbon economy

More than 100 stakeholders from telecoms and energy utility sectors as well as the EU institutions and national regulatory authorities gathered for the first ETNO workshop on broadband networks and smart grids hosted by Belgacom. The event was opened by Philippe Lowe, Director General of  DG Energy; Paul Timmers, Director, DG Information Society; Malcolm Johnson, Director ITU-T, Telecommunications Standardisation Bureau (TSB); Bart Van Den Meersche, EVP Enterprise Business Unit, Belgacom and Mario Costamagna, Director Marketing Green Solutions, Telecom Italia.

Press release: EU Consultation on costing

Brussels - To promote investment in next generation access networks, what is needed is a positive regulatory approach that supports pricing flexibility and allows the deployment of all high speed technologies capable of delivering high speed access, says ETNO in its response today to the European Commission consultation on costing methodologies. 

Press release: Telecoms operators welcome the adoption by the Telecommunication Council of the Decision on the First Radio Spectrum Policy Programme

GSMA and ETNO welcome today’s adoption by the EU’s Council of Telecoms Ministers of the first Radio Spectrum Policy Programme for 2012-2015 (RSPP). The compromise text reached in trialogue between the Polish Presidency, the European Parliament and the European Commission sets clear policy orientations on the use of radio spectrum in Europe, which will help reap the benefits of the Digital Agenda and boost EU competitiveness. 

Press release: ETNO welcomes Council’s recognition of importance of current rules to ensure an open Internet

In line with the Council’s conclusions on net neutrality adopted today, ETNO believes that significant economic gains can be achieved through an appropriate policy framework for ICT and that provisions of the existing regulatory framework are best placed to enable an open Internet. 

Press release: Costing: Plum report shows negative impact of lower copper prices on next generation access investment and coverage

A Plum report for ETNO  published today demonstrates that lowering the price of copper envisaged by the European Commission in its consultation as one of the possible options would have a negative impact on investment by existing network operators and entrants, thereby affecting the Digital Agenda objectives. 

Press release: Connecting Europe Facility: budget cut could limit its effectiveness

As Ministers and State Secretaries for European Affairs are set to further discuss the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020 during their Informal Meeting in Nicosia on 30th August 2012, ETNO insists on the need to maintain the Commission’s proposed funding levels for ICT of the Connecting Europe Facility.

Press release: ETNO and A.T. Kearney agree to partnership for economic policy research in telecoms

The European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association (ETNO) and international management consulting firm A.T. Kearney have signed a new strategic partnership agreement to reinforce their cooperation and conduct a series of joint research activities to promote a better understanding of economic policy in the telecommunications sector.

Press release: ETNO welcomes EC Cloud Computing Strategy

Following the Commission's announcement of its Cloud Computing Strategy "Unleasing the Potential of Cloud Computing in Europe", ETNO underlines the importance of cloud services both economically in terms of driving digital growth for Europe and socially as regards benefitting end-users with innovative services such as eHealth.

Press release: ETNO CEOs’ Statement in Support of EU Financing for the High-speed Internet Infrastructure of the Future

Today, ETNO CEOs met with European Commission President Barroso and Vice-President Kroes, in charge of the Digital Agenda.

Press release: ETNO reiterates support to Commission’s announcement on a new regulatory environment for broadband investment and improve conditions for competitiveness

Brussels – Chief Executive Officers of the leading telecoms operators from Europe and beyond gathered today at the ETNO-Financial Times CEO Summit opened by Vice-President Kroes. Coinciding with the 20^th Anniversary of ETNO, the Summit, which attracted up to 350 delegates, is looking at the main developments in telecoms markets over the past years as well as the growth opportunities and the ways to unleash them.

Press release: Launch of EC consultation on review of the recommendation on relevant markets: An opportunity for a more targeted and investment-friendly regulatory approach

ETNO welcomes the launch today of a consultation on the revision of the recommendation on relevant markets which identifies the markets susceptible to regulation by national regulators. ETNO believes the revision of the recommendation is an opportunity to reduce regulation in response to increased competition, convergence and rapid technological changes, and to further improve the environment for high-speed broadband investment, in line with the recent announcements by Vice-President Kroes.

Press release: GSMA and ETNO call for EU data protection reform to protect consumers and industry

Inconsistencies between the existing e-Privacy Directive and the proposed Data Protection Regulation need to be addressed

The GSMA and ETNO today raised the need to tackle discrepancies between the proposed Data Protection Regulation and the 2002 ePrivacy Directive, which create inconsistent consumer privacy experiences and rights for equivalent services and data. A consistent data protection framework is needed for both industry and consumers. Operators strongly support the harmonization objective of the proposal but highlight that technology and service neutrality has not been sufficiently addressed yet.

Press release: ETNO General Assembly Joint Statement - Towards a new Policy for Growth

Krakow, Poland – Gathering for their 42nd General Assembly hosted by Orange Polska, senior representatives from ETNO members adopted ETNO’s key priorities for 2013 and called for a new Policy for Growth.

Press release: ETNO third annual economic report - EU Telecoms revenue down for the third year in row, reducing Europe’s importance on global telecoms market

Published today, the third ETNO Annual Economic Report revealed that despite a revenue decline by 1.5% in 2011, investments in fixed and mobile sectors continued to grow by 4.6%. Europe’s share of global telecoms markets, however, shrunk from 31 to 25% over the last 6 years.

Press release: Serafino Abate joins ETNO as new Regulatory Affairs Manager

BRUSSELS – Serafino Abate joined the ETNO team as the new Regulatory Affairs Manager from Ofcom, the UK regulator. He will coordinate the work of ETNO and present the association’s position in areas such as economic regulation, spectrum, external trade, research and innovation, as well as tax issues.

Press release: ETNO welcomes new Digital priorities for 2013-2014

BRUSSELS – By focusing both on a new regulatory approach for broadband networks and on better conditions for the deployment of new services, ETNO believes that the Commission addresses both the need for more investment incentives and consumer take up. Ultimately these new priorities should address the need for the EU telecoms sector to grow and become more competitive, following several years of decline in revenues.

Press release: Revision of the Recommendation on the Relevant Markets:

Rapidly changing market and technology realities call for more targeted regulation

As the new recommendation on relevant markets will identify the markets susceptible to regulation by national regulators up to 2020, the review should be forward looking and not only reflect today’s market changes but also anticipate rapidly evolving technologies and consumer habits, says ETNO in its response to the EC open consultation closing today.

Press release: The Latin American Association of Research Centers and Telecommunication Enterprises, AHCIET , and the European Telecommunication Network Operators association,ETNO, sign a strategic cooperation agreement

Bogotá / Brussels, 17January 2013. The Latin American  Association of Research Centers and Telecommunication Enterprises, AHCIET, and the Association of European telecommunications operators, ETNO, united by the common goal of promoting electronic communications and contribute to the creation of a global information infrastructure, have decided to join efforts to promote the harmonious development of telecommunications, through the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement. 

Press release: ETNO welcomes the announcement made today by Commissioner Kroes on the policy and regulatory approach for the next years in the electronic communication sector in Europe.

Luigi Gambardella, Chairman of the ETNO Board has declared: "ETNO considers that today’s statement will contribute to end a long period of uncertainty in the sector. Investors need a stable regulatory framework and today’s announcements by VP Kroes is an important step towards building investor trust, giving a valuable guidance in the light of the European Commission growth strategy for 2020.”

Press release: ETNO welcomes Irish EU Presidency and calls for support of the Connecting Europe Facility

BRUSSELS – On the occasion of a meeting today with Irish Presidency representatives, ETNO underlined its support of the Irish Presidency’s main priorities of establishing stability, jobs and growth, and insisted on the need to enable the telecoms sector to fully play its role as a driver of growth and welfare for Europe’s economy and society as a whole.

Press release: ETNO and GSMA Reiterate Commitment to High Standards of Protection of Personal Data

29 January 2013, Brussels – ETNO and the GSMA call on the European Parliament and Council to work towards the timely adoption of the EU Data Protection Regulation and to ensure that the final text reaches the proper balance between protecting consumers and driving economic growth.

Press release: EC proposal for a Directive on Network and Information Security: An important step towards a truly level playing field between all players

ETNO welcomes the proposal for an EU Directive on Network and Information Security adopted today as a major contribution to enhanced consumer trust and confidence in the digital era. The proposed Directive is part of a comprehensive EU Cybersecurity Strategy launched jointly by Neelie Kroes, Commissioner for the Digital Agenda; Cecilia Malmström, Commissioner for Home Affairs; and, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Press release: ETNO disappointed by reduction of the Connecting Europe Facility [Telecoms] budget

The CEF budget for telecoms has been reduced from EUR 9.2  billion to EUR 1 billion under the new budget deal agreed by the European Council.

Press release: ETNO-Total Telecom Regulatory Summit

ETNO-Total Telecom Regulatory Summit

EU Telecoms sector: change is needed to relaunch growth

Charles River Associates warned against using lower copper prices to promote fibre investments as this may have the opposite effect.

BRUSSELS - On the occasion of its Regulatory Summit held today in Brussels with Total Telecom, ETNO calls for an innovative regulatory and policy approach to stimulate new business models and spur investment. The ETNO- Total Telecom Regulatory Summit, opened by Georg Serentschy, 2012 BEREC Chair, and Anthony Whelan, Head of Vice President Kroes Cabinet, has attracted about 200 participants from the EU Institutions, national regulators, industry, academics and investors.

Press release: ETNO AND SAMENA COUNCIL TO REINFORCE COOPERATION ON TELECOMS INDUSTRY MATTERS

At the SAMENA Council’s Beyond Connectivity 2013 conference, ETNO and the SAMENA Council, jointly representing telecommunications operators and service providers in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, both reiterated their commitment to closely cooperate in addressing high-priority industry issues and to collaborate on developing frameworks, which may assist the industry in creating innovative and efficient business models.

Press release: Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair speech at BEYOND DUBAI. A NEW GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE INTERNET workshop

Speaking today at the at a Alleanza per Internet Workshop in Rome entitled BEYOND DUBAI. A NEW GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE INTERNET, Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair, said:

Press release: ETNO welcomes European Council conclusions on the single market for telecoms

ETNO members, who represent the main investors in today's and tomorrow's high-speed networks, welcome the conclusions of the European Council, which echo the industry call for a single market for telecoms. A broad reform is needed in order to boost the sector’s competitiveness and unlock its potential to drive growth and jobs in Europe.

Press release: ETNO welcomes EC proposal for coordinated measures throughout the EU to bring down cost of high speed broadband roll out

Brussels – ETNO, who represents the leading investors in high speed broadband networks, welcomes the draft EC Regulation to cut the cost of rolling out high-speed broadband, as an important step for supporting investment in the EU and accelerating the achievement of the DAE targets.

Press release: ETNO visits the European Cybercrime Centre in The Hague

The Hague – Today, a delegation of the ETNO Executive Board is visiting the recently opened European Cybercrime Centre which has been set up as part of the Commission's Cyber Security Strategy. The EU Cyber Security Strategy is a joint initiative of Vice-President Neelie Kroes, Commissioner for the Digital Agenda; Cecilia Malmström, Commissioner for Home Affairs; and, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Press release: ETNO meets Vice-President Antonio Tajani

Brussels - Luigi Gambardella, Chairman of the Executive Board of ETNO (the European Telecommunications Network Operators’ association), has met today Antonio Tajani, Vice-President of the European Commission and responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship, to share views on the future evolution and challenges of the telecoms sector in Europe.

Press release: Study calls for lesser markets to be regulated and a more flexible regulatory approach for broadband markets

BRUSSELS – The current review of the EC recommendation on the relevant markets should lead to a reduction in the number of markets to be regulated and to fundamental change in the regulation of broadband. This is the main finding of a study by Plum Consulting for ETNO presented today at the ETNO-MLex Regulatory Summit, which attracted more than 120 participants.

Press release: ETNO calls for harmonized approach for spectrum

BRUSSELS – The use of frequency bands for wireless broadband applications should be harmonized at European and preferably worldwide levels, says ETNO in its response to the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) consultation on Strategic Challenges facing Europe in addressing the Growing Spectrum Demand for Wireless Broadband.

Press release: Study calls for new wave of European telecoms market deregulation to restore growth and investment

• The European telecoms sector has been in decline and lags all other major regions of the world on financials – but could generate additional annual revenues in excess of €40bn by 2020 with the right policy framework in place
• Operators need three freedoms: freedom to price, freedom to innovate and freedom to consolidate, in order to reverse this trend and maintain a healthy, competitive sector which can attract investment needed to build a world-class digital infrastructure