Course Description
Electronic communications law is a dynamic regulatory environment, not only because of rapid technological developments (intelligent mobile networks, increasing broadband penetration, smart devices etc.) but also because of the innovation of business models and radical changes in the regulatory framework. All this has changed, and will further change the provision and use of telecommunications services in the near future.
The convergence of technologies brings together a (still) highly regulated sector (telecommunications) with one (ICTs) that is not (yet) regulated as a sector, which raises regulatory questions. Crucial issues such as net neutrality are at the forefront of the debate and deal with important matters of freedom of information and privacy, as well as the concept of universal service and detailed end-user rights.
Telecommunications law has to deal with an inherently European and international force field of different legal areas, including both public and private law, that may not necessarily be able to keep up with these developments. This course addresses the impact of technological developments on the law and vice versa (ius constitutum and ius constituendum) on regulatory authorities, telco’s and ISP’s (‘incumbents’ as well as ‘new entrants’) and users (consumers as well as businesses).
Course Requirement
Master Degree
Assessment Method
10-15 page paper on relevant subject (40%)
Written exam (60%)
Passing grade mandatory for both paper and exam to pass this course