Fast Internet as a Prerequisite for Sustainable and Resilient Development: Network Expansion Measures and Extension of User Rights

Abstract

The relationship between digitalisation, sustainability and resilience is fiercely debated. However, it is largely undisputed that digital technology is fundamentally capable of supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and must do so. During the Corona pandemic, many people were dependent on digital applications to access education, work or medical care. Thus, fast internet is a basic prerequisite for social and economic participation. However, especially in rural regions, good internet connections are not commonly available. The article presents the strategy of Germany (as an example of a large EU Member State) to provide all citizens with access to fast internet. Access to fast internet is not only a measure of consumer protection but also serves significantly to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (especially SDG 3, 4, 8, 9).

On the basis of the Directive (EU) 2018/1972 (European Electronic Communication Code), the Member States set incentives for network expansion, for example by reducing investment costs. Necessary measures are taken by the responsible regulatory authorities. One trend is to “empower” consumers vis-à-vis telecommunications providers. On the one hand, this involves transparency about the providers available on the market and the quality of their services. A number of legal instruments are available for this purpose. On the other hand, the increased importance of fast internet access for individuals has led in Germany to an enforceable “right to fast internet”. In this respect, German telecommunications law goes beyond the European directive requirements and breaks new ground to achieve the SDGs.

The author would like to thank Benedikt Freese, Felizitas Heet, Christian Schepers, Florian Flamme and Jan Kalbhenn for active support and enriching discussions during the preparation of this manuscript.