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. The release comes as EU Heads of State and Government gather for the European Council to discuss, among others, the future of Europe’s industrial and digital policy.

Topics covered in the report include:

• Europe’s digital opportunity: new jobs, a GDP boost and green transformation
• A need for more investment: €300bn still missing for networks, €40bn/year for schools and SMEs
• Telecom solutions: collaboration for intelligent networks, cloud and innovative services
• European policies: executing on an ambitious industrial vision

Lise Fuhr, ETNO Director General, said: “This Report shows that Europe’s gigabit opportunity is extremely relevant to today’s top challenges, including recovery and the green transition. We call on European leaders to support the telecoms sector and help us deliver a stronger digital economy for all citizens.”