The Road to More Flexibility in Spectrum Usage and Access: Are We There Yet?

Pogorel, Gérard (2006): The Road to More Flexibility in Spectrum Usage and Access: Are We There Yet? Published in: International Journal of Digital Economics No. 64 (December 2006): pp. 61-65.

Abstract

In the spectrum sections of its "Proposed Changes" to the Review of the European Union Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services, the European Commission establishes a coherent, comprehensive and original set of forward-looking spectrum policy principles. By emphasising the role of trading and market flexibility, technology and service neutrality, it departs from traditional,administrative spectrum management principles. But by stressing the need for a clear justification of exclusive usage rights, it differentiates itself from market-fits all propositions. Three issues should be examined to understand what kind of evolutions could occur: the prevention of interferences, harmonisation and standardisation, and lastly the weight of institutions. Technical progress in wireless, culminating in extended dynamic access, will mostly complement market mechanisms in fostering the efficient use of spectrum, as long as institutional factors do not interfere (barriers to entry) or are removed.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Institution: COMMUNICATIONS & STRATEGIES
• Language: English
• Keywords: Spectrum usage; Spectrum management; Spectrum policy; radio interferences; audiovisual policy
• Subjects: L - Industrial Organization > L5 - Regulation and Industrial Policy > L51 - Economics of Regulation; D - Microeconomics > D8 - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty > D82 - Asymmetric and Private Information ; Mechanism Design; K - Law and Economics > K2 - Regulation and Business Law > K23 - Regulated Industries and Administrative Law; L - Industrial Organization > L9 - Industry Studies: Transportation and Utilities > L96 - Telecommunications