The GSMA – on behalf of Europe’s telecoms operators – and
Danish industry association Teleindustrien look forward to Denmark’s term
holding the Presidency of the European Union at such a pivotal juncture for
the continent. Europe has spent years, decades, standing still as other
developed markets pulled ahead with digitalisation projects. Instead, we have
lost out on the social and economic benefits high-speed connectivity can
bring – especially growth and innovation. In an increasingly fragmented geopolitical landscape, Europe
now has an opportunity to return to a true global leadership role. This,
however, can only be done with the right circumstances in place – consensus
on the defining issues of our time, and a regulatory environment that
supports rather than hinders. Europe must re-prioritise its ailing digital
ecosystem and make it a vital enabler of not only growth and innovation, but
also security and sovereignty. We have long known how much more needs to be done. Over the
past decade, European telecoms operators have invested more than €500 billion
of their own funds into networks, particularly on the infrastructure and
spectrum required to roll 5G out across the continent. This, however, has not
been enough to keep pace with growing traffic demands. The European Union
itself acknowledges that at least €200 billion more is required to make our
mobile networks fit for current purpose – a conservative estimate and one not
accounting for essential futureproofing and security needs. The launch of the much-anticipated Digital Networks Act is
expected to fall within the Danish Presidency. This is therefore a crucial
period for the continent, and an opportunity to aim high and target
world-leading status – an opportunity that must not be squandered. It is essential that the DNA delivers the clear and
forward-looking framework needed for mobile network operators to provide
citizens with the fast, reliable connectivity that can form the backbone of a
thriving, innovative and secure Europe. This means a reduction in the regulatory burden on telecoms
operators, fair and equivalent rules being imposed across the whole digital
ecosystem. It demands a renewed focus on the sector’s competitiveness and its
ability to drive the significant and required levels of investment, as well
as a pro-investment approach to spectrum. Beyond the DNA, positive steps are
also needed in reviewing the merger guidelines, to facilitate the necessary
in-market consolidation that will allow operators to scale and attract the
investment needed to upscale Europe’s digital capabilities. The time for analysis is over. What is needed is action.
Europe created many of the technologies that have connected the whole planet,
from the original telephone to the World Wide Web. Now we need to return to
those roots and encourage invention and innovation, all facilitated by
best-in-class digital infrastructure. We hope the DNA effects real change and
gives Europe the opportunity to return to its role as a global powerhouse and
leader. 10 June 2025
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