IIC Regulators’ Forum 2021
Dr Wilhelm Eschweiler: "International dialogue supports national regulatory strategies"
Date of issue 2021.10.05
The Bundesnetzagentur, together with the International Institute of Communications (IIC), hosted this year's International Regulators' Forum on 4 and 5 October.
"Regulatory authorities across the world are facing the same challenges. International dialogue supports the development of regulatory concepts based on tried and tested principles. Competition gives users the widest possible choice of digital services and promoting connectivity ensures inclusion and fast internet connections for all,"
said Dr Wilhelm Eschweiler, Bundesnetzagentur Vice President.
Representatives of regulatory authorities from across the globe took part in the digital event by livestream and contributed to the discussions.
The event focused primarily on broadband networks and ensuring connectivity. Network security, in particular in light of the technological developments in the mobile networks towards 6G and Open RAN, was also a topic of discussion. Other issues included the treatment of digital platforms and the opportunities and risks posed by artificial intelligence, for which Europe is so far the only region to develop a future legal framework.
The International Regulators' Forum traditionally kicks off the annual IIC Communications Policy and Regulation Week. The Bundesnetzagentur sought to share information with international partners on current and upcoming opportunities in the telecommunications markets and their regulation in various fields and has turned its regulatory focus to the future, in particular as regards artificial intelligence and digital platforms.
The IIC is an organisation including regulators in the field of electronic communications from all continents. It offers a platform for the exchange of information about regulatory practices between regulators from different global regions. The Bundesnetzagentur has been a member since 2021.