Moving beyond liberalization: stumbling toward a new European ICT policy framework

Abstract

Purpose

This paper intends to promote a re‐consideration of the most appropriate policy framework for implementing the European Union (EU) digital agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines relevant EU documentation and the related research literature on EU telecommunications reform within a context of economic market theory and policy analysis models.

Findings

The liberalization principle driving EU telecommunications reform for the past quarter century has stalled, and may be reversed by the policy framework adopted for implementing the digital agenda. The public sector broadband funding model is likely to be wasteful and ineffective. Other options for implementation should be considered.

Originality/value

This paper examines current EU policy shaping the development of broadband networks and the evolution of the digital economy and information society. It highlights the progress and limitations of EU policy as it has evolved as a reference for implementation of current policy objectives. It will be of value to policy makers, industry analysts and players, as well as researchers in academia and other institutions.

Citation

Melody, W.H. (2013), "Moving beyond liberalization: stumbling toward a new European ICT policy framework", info, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 25-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636691311305407