WIFI4EU - Promotion of internet connectivity in local communities

Briefing 10-11-2017

On 12 September 2017, the European Parliament voted to adopt a legislative act that aims at the promotion of very fast wireless internet access in local communities. This service will be provided free of charge to the public at large. The areas covered will encompass public administrations, libraries and hospitals, as well as outdoor spaces accessible to all. The aim is to increase accessibility to high-performance mobile internet, and to raise awareness of the benefits of such connectivity. Administrative procedures will be simplified and EU funds will be used to provide financial support to the establishment of such networks. This action comes within the framework of the digital single market, and is one of several legislative proposals announced on 14 September 2016 by the Commission, with its communication, ‘Connectivity for a competitive digital single market – Towards a European gigabit society’.