Policy & Regulation Committee Kicks Off 2026 with Strategic Advocacy on Digital Networks Act and Spectrum Allocation

The Policy & Regulation Committee has appointed Christof Sommerberg as acting Chair, bringing extensive experience as Head of Public Affairs at Deutsche Glasfaser and four years as a Board member.

The Committee concluded 2025 with the release of its final recommendation on the 6 GHz band, advocating for full WiFi access, despite initial decisions not aligning with FTTH Council positions. The matter is now under the European Commission’s review, and the Committee continues its advocacy to ensure sufficient spectrum supports evolving fibre network speeds.

2026 begins with the European Commission’s Digital Network Act (DNA), aimed at resetting regulation for digital infrastructure, including fibre. The Committee welcomes the DNA’s focus on investment incentives and effective competition, supporting a balanced copper switch-off and nationally tailored access remedies to maintain regulatory stability and protect consumers. Elements like license-free spectrum for RLAN remain under discussion, and the Committee will engage with co-legislators to accelerate fibre deployment and strengthen competition.

Looking ahead, the Committee will host the FTTH Policy Dialogue on 24 February 2026 in Brussels, presenting the 2026 Copper Switch-off Tracker. This key tool enables policymakers and the industry to monitor progress, identify best practices, and guide future action on full-fibre adoption across Europe.