Communications Convergence and Public Service Broadcasting

Abstract

This paper discusses first how the convergence between the IT, telecommunications and media sectors has been dealt with under EC law, as regards both EC regulation in the telecommunications and media sectors and EC competition law. The result is a legal framework which introduces a relatively strict separation between content and transmission/distribution networks. In the second part, the paper examines how this separation in the legal framework could impact public broadcasters. It threatens the continuing legitimacy of and justification for their public service mission, but at the same it offers an opportunity to recast that mission in new terms which are better suited to the converged environment.

Keywords: Telecommunications, Media, Convergence, Public Broadcasting, EC Competition Law, Regulation

JEL Classification: K21, K23, L82