European Electronic Communications Code (Recast) (EECC)

European Electronic Communications Code
Electronic communication code © European Parliament (2017)

The EECC entered into force in December 2018. The Directive represents an ambitious overhaul of the EU rules governing telecoms policy. New rules are designed to help Europe meet its growing connectivity needs and to encourage investment in high-capacity networks, as well as simplifying competition rules and making better use of radio spectrum. Industry Committee (ITRE) has the lead in the EP, but IMCO had exclusive competence for all aspects related to consumer protection & universal service.

In respect of consumer protection, the Code seeks to ensure a level playing field between traditional telecoms operators and new online market players, so that consumers are more easily aware of their rights whoever their provider of digital services is. The Code also creates an obligation on operators to send public warnings by text message or mobile app in the event of public emergencies.

In respect of universal service, the Code ensures that all consumers have the right to a minimum level of internet service, including when they live in rural areas and when they cannot afford to pay for an internet package themselves. The minimum internet speed of such consumers should reflect the internet speed enjoyed by the majority of consumers in that country.

IMCO also played a key role in ensuring that intra-EU calls cost no more than 19 cents, and intra-EU SMS messages no more than 6 cents, from 15 May 2019. There is a safeguard clause to ensure operators are not left out of pocket.