©GettyImages - metamorworks
Staying connected is a vital part of our lives. We all share a desire to keep in contact with one another, no matter how far apart we are. This desire was even stronger during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many of us were kept apart from loved ones for a long time.
Connectivity allows us to reach and connect with others no matter where they are in the world. It puts countless possibilities in the palm of our hands: we can read the latest news whenever and wherever we find convenient, follow online classes, learn skills, and seek advice from professors and professionals no matter how far away they are. And, we can browse online markets to find the most convenient products and services, or offer our own products to customers around the world.
The EU has taken action in a range of areas to improve connectivity. It ended roaming charges, allowing us to take our mobile subscriptions on our travels through the EU at no extra cost. The WiFi4EU initiative funded the setup of free Wi-Fi hotspots in local communities.
The EU also provides funding, develops technical guidance and brings together experts to support public administrations and businesses working to improve network coverage and introduce 5G networks across Europe.
The focus now is on creating a Europe with harmonised rules for connectivity services, so that we can enjoy the same benefits no matter where we are in the EU. EU action also helps to bring more choice to consumers, reduce bills, and set a higher standard of service.
Actions already taken at EU level include:
- introducing the European electronic communications code, which sets clear rules applicable across all of Europe
- supporting wireless networks such as 5G through the radio spectrum policy programme
- ending of roaming charges in the EU, and a price-cap on communications within the EU
- leading global discussions on Internet development and governance
The main goal for connectivity in the Digital Decade is for every European household to have access to high-speed internet coverage by 2025 and gigabit connectivity by 2030.
Latest
Related Content
Dig deeper
EU rules enshrine the principle of open Internet access: internet traffic shall be treated without discrimination, blocking, throttling or prioritisation.
ICT specifications ensure that products can connect and interoperate with each other, boosting innovation, and keeping ICT markets open and competitive.
The EU's electronic communications policy improves competition, drives innovation, and boosts consumer rights within the European single market.
The connectivity toolbox offers guidance for the deployment of fibre and 5G networks. These networks will offer significant economic opportunities.
Wireless communications, via public or private networks, use radio spectrum, i.e. a range of radio waves, to carry information. Such communication can be between people, people and machines or systems (“things” more general) or between things. In this context, radio spectrum is...
5G is the critical new generation network technology that will enable innovation and support the digital transformation.
Need help? 112 is your life-saving number! 112 is the European emergency phone number, available everywhere in the EU, free of charge.
Europeans can call, message and use mobile data anywhere in the EU without extra costs thanks to the 'Roam like at home' policy.
Europeans pay lower and limited charges for, Intra-EU calls, or calling other EU countries.
Satellite broadband is available to provide fast internet connectivity throughout every EU country.
The European Commission is supporting EU businesses, project managers and authorities in increasing network coverage to reach the EU’s Gigabit Society goals.
WIFI4EU
WiFi4EU
The WiFi4EU initiative promotes free access to Wi-Fi connectivity for citizens in public spaces...