Regulación, desregulación y competencia en telecomunicaciones

José Carlos Laguna de Paz

doi:10.24965/reala.11490

Authors

José Carlos Laguna de Paz Universidad de Valladolid. Departamento de Derecho Público (España – Spain)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24965/reala.11490

Keywords:

telecommunications, liberalisation, regulation, competition

Abstract

Objectives: To analyse a European sectoral policy, critically assess its results and offer possible remedies. Methodology: Regulatory, doctrinal and jurisprudential analysis, as well as the most recent reports. Results: The positive promotion of competition has resulted in almost universal broadband services, highly competitive markets, high portability, exponential traffic growth and low prices, but with undercapitalised operators with low investment capacity. The competitive situation of the sector has finally allowed the deregulation of markets. Nevertheless, companies are calling for further consolidation of the sector. It has also been raised whether regulation should create the conditions for Big Tech to contribute to financing networks of which they are the main users. Conclusions: European telecoms policy has two faces. It is true that it has promoted a very competitive sector, with universal service coverage and very low prices. However, it has also contributed to the decapitalisation of European operators, which not so long ago were world leaders. The solution must be found by the companies themselves, in their dynamism and creativity. However, regulation must facilitate it, rewarding investment efforts, which will drive innovation and growth in the sector.

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Author Biography

José Carlos Laguna de Paz, Universidad de Valladolid. Departamento de Derecho Público (España – Spain)

Catedrático de Derecho Administrativo de la Universidad de Valladolid. Of counsel at Eversheds Sutherland. Consultor de entidades públicas y privadas. Entre sus publicaciones destacan las referidas a la regulación económica y competencia, así como a algunas de las principales categorías jurídico-administrativas (autorizaciones, contratos, sanciones).

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