European Union: European Commission opened consultation on development of Digital Networks Act

On 6 June 2025, the European Commission opened a consultation on the upcoming Digital Networks Act, until 11 July 2025. The Act aims to simplify and harmonise rules, reinforcing competitiveness and fostering a more integrated single market. The Act proposes reducing reporting obligations and consolidating several legislations, including the European Electronic Communications Code, the Regulation establishing the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC), the Open Internet Regulation, and the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme, into a single framework. The Act would introduce simplified authorisation procedures and more harmonised common conditions to facilitate cross-border operations for telecommunications providers, alongside better coordination of security and law enforcement requirements. In spectrum management, the Act would establish common procedures, longer license durations with easier renewals, and spectrum auctions that promote efficiency and 6G readiness. Flexible authorisations, including lawful spectrum sharing, would support European spectrum sovereignty and address cross-border interference. To ensure fair competition, the Act proposes enhancing the role of national regulators and BEREC. The consultation aims to gather information on barriers for cross-border business operations, boosting innovation, and increasing investment in the European electronic communications sector to address challenges for deploying advanced networks such as fibre, 5G/6G, and cloud infrastructure.