Local Loop Unbundling in Europe: Experience, Prospects and Policy Challenges

Abstract

This paper discusses the development of local loop unbundling in telecommunications markets throughout the European Union. It elaborates on the regulatory framework in Europe and provides an overview on the recent experience in Europe. Different types of unbundling, allowing for different types of entry and services provided by entrants, are discussed. In addition, the paper explores the challenges for policy and regulation that arise because of unbundling and related, recent technological developments in the markets for fixed voice telephony and broadband Internet access, in particular the emergence of packet-switched telephony such as VoIP.

Keywords: Local Loop Unbundling, Broadband, VoIP, Regulation, Telecommunications

JEL Classification: L96, L43, K23