- A coalition of nine European altnets warns Brussels’ plan to relax fixed-network rules risks creating a new broadband monopoly along the value chain.
- They say deregulation jeopardises fibre investment, competition and Europe’s Digital Decade targets.
What happened: altnets warn Brussels’ deregulation risks monopoly
A coalition of nine European alternative network operators—including Vodafone, Iliad, Colt and Eurofiber—has warned that Brussels’ plan to relax fixed‑network regulations could re‑monopolise the market. They issued an open letter on 10 July stating that watering down rules for dominant groups, like Germany’s Deutsche Telekom, could harm fibre expansion and tilt the scales against altnets.
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Why it’s important
This debate strikes at the heart of European broadband competition, with potential consequences for millions across the continent. Altnets—smaller fibre providers—have driven the UK’s broadband revolution, where full‑fibre access leapt from 12% to 78% in just five years under strong regulation. By ensuring open access to incumbent infrastructure, regulators like Ofcom have accelerated rollout and kept consumer choice alive. However, Brussels’ proposed shift may reverse this progress: lax wholesale rules risk favouring legacy giants, blocking smaller players from gaining fair network access and investment. That would likely slow new fibre builds, especially in underserved areas, and diminish long‑term innovation. A competitive fibre market also pushes incumbents to up quality and service to retain customers—a win‑win for end users. For readers, the issue means future broadband speeds, prices and availability hinge on these regulatory decisions. Europe’s digital ambitions, including its 2030 “Digital Decade” goals, are at stake—so the fight over regulation isn’t just bureaucratic squabbling, it’s shaping the continent’s connectivity future.
