Explanatory Memorandum to SEC(2009)1060 - Accompanying document to the COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS - Europe's Digital Competitiveness Report - Main achievements of the i2010 strategy 2005-2009 - i2010 - List of actions - Main contents
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| dossier | SEC(2009)1060 - Accompanying document to the COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ... |
|---|---|
| source | SEC(2009)1060  |
| date | 04-08-2009 |
Brussels, 4.8.2009
SEC(2009) 1060 final
COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT
COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS
Europe's Digital Competitiveness Report
Main achievements of the i2010 strategy 2005-2009
i2010 - List of actions
{COM(2009) 390 final}
{SEC(2009) 1103}
{SEC(2009) 1104}
ELECTRONIC VERSION ONLY
i2010 — List of actions
June 2005 to May 20091
| 0 — horizontal i2010 actions | |
| Action and delivery date | Overview |
| Communication ‘i2010 — A European Information Society for growth and employment’, COM(2005) 229, 01.06.2005 | The Communication sets a framework for addressing the main challenges and developments in the information society and media sectors up to 2010. The i2010 initiative promotes an open and competitive digital economy and emphasises ICTs as a driver of inclusion and quality of life. i2010 rests on three pillars: 1. Creating the single European Information Space, which promotes an open and competitive internal market for information society and media services; 2. Increasing investment in innovation and research in ICTs; and 3. Fostering inclusion, better public services and quality of life through the use of ICTs. |
| i2010 High Level Conference, London, 06.09.2005 | The i2010 conference, hosted by the UK Presidency, provided a key opportunity for governments and business from across the EU to contribute to the definition of the i2010 strategy for the EU up to 2010. |
| Establishment of the i2010 High Level Group, Commission Decision (2006/215/EC), 15.03.2006 | The High Level Group of Member State representatives advises the Commission on the implementation, review and development of the i2010 strategy. |
| New benchmarking framework for i2010, 20.04.2006 | Benchmarking is central to monitoring progress in achieving the i2010 priorities. Results are reviewed in the i2010 Annual Reports. The indicators are closely aligned with the Lisbon integrated guidelines relevant to ICTs. |
| Communication ‘i2010 — First Annual Report on the European Information Society’, COM(2006) 215, 19.05.2006 | The Annual Report took stock of the achievements of the first year of implementation of the i2010 initiative and updated the i2010 actions for the period 2006-2007. The associated Commission staff working paper reviewed the i2010 key actions against the background of ICT developments in the EU. |
| i2010 High Level Conference, Helsinki, 27-28.09.2006 | The 2006 high-level conference on i2010, ‘i2010 — Towards a Ubiquitous European Information Society’, was hosted by the Finnish Presidency. It examined the opportunities and challenges associated with a ‘ubiquitous’ information society, in which people’s ways of life and work will be based on having ICT services available everywhere, at all times. |
| Fostering the competitiveness of Europe’s ICT industry — EU ICT Task Force Report, 27.11.2006 | The ICT Task Force recommends a focus on interoperability, developing digital and entrepreneurial skills, strengthening the internal market, reducing patent costs particularly for translations by application of the London Protocol, and promotion of lead markets through public procurement. The task force brought together experts from industry and civil society to identify major obstacles to the competitiveness of the ICT sector. |
| ‘The Challenges of Convergence’ working paper of the i2010 High Level Group, 12.12.2006 | The working paper, prepared together with the Member States in the i2010 High Level Group, highlights various technological, market and policy challenges posed by digital convergence. The paper concludes that the overall legal and regulatory framework is favourable for the further development of convergence, but there might be a need to look at emerging bottlenecks and new business models that change today’s ways of delivering services and content to users. |
| Communication ‘i2010 — Annual Information Society Report 2007’, COM(2007) 146, 30.03.2007 | The second Annual Report, published on 30 March 2007, reviews the Commission’s and Member States’ progress in implementing the i2010 agenda so far. It also updates the set of actions planned for 2007-2008. Finally, the report sets out the key policy issues for the future to be debated during the mid-term review of the i2010 strategy. |
| ‘User and consumer perspective in the context of convergence’ working paper of the i2010 High Level Group, 20.04.2007 | The issue paper identifies the gaps in the protection of users in the digital environment and reviews options for policy response. |
| ‘Content and Convergence’ working paper of the i2010 Level Group, 20.04.2007 | The issue paper outlines the main economic and cultural challenges arising from digital convergence and points to ways of addressing them that bring benefit in term of European competitiveness, cultural diversity and users’ interests. |
| Communication 'Preparing Europe’s digital future. i2010 Mid-Term Review' (i2010 Annual Information Society Report 2008), COM(2008) 199, 17.04.2008 | Two years after the launch of i2010, the Commission reflected on whether its general approach remained valid and best suited to today's policy priorities for growth and jobs. The report shows that the i2010 strategy, which triggered new EU initiatives on regulation, research and public-private partnerships, is delivering results. More than half of Europeans are now regular Internet users, 80% of them have broadband connections and 60% of public services in the EU are fully available online. The strategy, has led to a firm commitment to promoting ICT at EU and national levels. In parallel, the EU institutions have encouraged the building of a single market for online services and increased research funding. A single market for telecoms, promoting cross-border communication services, is, however, still in the making. The mid-term review also identified new themes to consider for a longer term agenda for the EU – the digital single market, the role of the users, the need to continue investing in ICT R&D and innovation and the future of networks and the internet.. |
| Information Society at the Crossroads (i2010 high level conference), Brdo, Slovenia, 13-14 May 2008 | The conference, organised by the Slovenian Presidency, addressed the main topics raised by the mid-term review of i2010, including the themes identified for future reflection. |
| Building on i2010: Which services and networks for tomorrow? Paris, 9 September 2008 | This French Presidency conference reflected on what needs to be done to promote and speed up the development of infrastructures and services of the future. |
| Communication Internet governance: the next steps, COM(2009) 277, 18.06.2009 | The Communication analyses progress on Internet governance and the changing role of governments in the process. It calls for more transparency and multilateral accountability in the governance of the internet and proposes an approach for the future. |
| 1 — A Single European Information Space | |
1.1 — Delivering services anywhere, anytime over high-speed seamless networks | |
Action 1: Review of the regulatory framework for electronic communications | |
| Communication on market reviews under the EU Regulatory Framework, COM(2006) 28, 06.02.2006 | The report reviews the state of the electronic communications markets in 2005. |
| Communication ‘European Electronic Communications Regulation and Markets 2005 (11th Report)’ COM(2006) 68, 20.02.2006 | The Commission publishes regular reports on the Member States’ implementation of the EU framework for electronic communications. The 11th report looks at market developments in 2005, mainly in broadband, mobile and fixed services, the regulatory environment and the consumer interest. |
| Communication on the outcome of the review of the scope of universal service, COM(2006) 163, 07.04.2006 | The Commission reviewed the scope of universal service in the Universal Service Directive and concluded that it would not extend the scope of universal service to mobile telephony and broadband. However, this theme continued to be discussed in the context of the general regulatory review of electronic communications in 2006. |
| Communication on the review of the EU Regulatory Framework for electronic communications networks and services, COM(2006) 334, 29.06.2006 | Based on an analysis of the functioning of the regulatory framework and its impact, the Communication indicated possible changes and launched a public consultation on the proposals. At the same time, comments were invited on the draft second edition of the Commission Recommendation on Relevant Product and Service Markets. The two main proposals are to implement the Commission’s policy approach to spectrum management and to reduce the burden of reviews of relevant markets by streamlining the procedures. Other changes proposed would strengthen the internal market, reinforce consumer interests, improve security and generally update the framework. |
| Proposal for a Regulation on roaming on public mobile networks within the Community, COM(2006) 382, 12.07.2006 | The proposed Regulation does not fix an ideal price for roaming charges but applies a method that ensures, through price ceilings, that mobile roaming charges are not unjustifiably higher than those for domestic mobile phone use. The proposed regulation also enhances price transparency. |
| Communication ‘European Electronic Communications Regulation and Markets 2006 (12th Report)’ COM(2007) 155, 29.03.2007 | The Commission report took a snapshot of Europe's telecom markets in 2006, worth almost €290 billion in revenues, just prior to the reform of the EU telecom rules. It included individual chapters covering the situation in each EU Member State. |
| Communication on market reviews under the EU Regulatory Framework (2nd report), COM(2007) 401, 11.07.2007 | Although the EU’s telecoms regulatory framework has led to significant benefits for citizens and enterprises alike, important challenges remain for national and European regulators, says the Commission report. It presents the results of 600 draft regulatory decisions sent to the Commission by National Regulatory Authorities. In a number of cases, the report found that the solutions imposed by national regulators to remedy a lack of competition varied considerably, leading to the risk of fragmenting the internal telecoms market to the detriment of consumers and pan-European operators. |
| Communication on Strengthening the Internal Market for Mobile TV. COM(2007) 409, 18.07.2007 | The Commission has adopted a strategy favouring the take-up of mobile TV across the 27 EU Member States. The Commission urges Member States and industry to facilitate and accelerate the deployment of mobile TV across Europe and to encourage the use of DVB-H as the single European standard for mobile TV. |
| Proposals for a reform of the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications, 13.11.2007: Proposal for a Directive amending Directives 2002/21/EC on a common regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services, 2002/19/EC on access to, and interconnection of, electronic communications networks and services, and 2002/20/EC on the authorisation of electronic communications networks and services, COM(2007) 697; Proposal for a Directive amending Directive 2002/22/EC on universal service and users’ rights relating to electronic communications networks, Directive 2002/58/EC concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector and Regulation (EC) No 2006/2004 on consumer protection cooperation, COM(2007) 698; Proposal for a Regulation establishing the European Electronic Communications Market Authority, COM(2007) 699; Communication — Reaping the full benefits of the digital dividend in Europe: A common approach to the use of the spectrum released by the digital switchover, COM(2007) 700; Commission recommendation on relevant product and service markets, C(2007) 5406 rev 1; Report on the outcome of the Review of the regulatory framework and summary of the 2007 reform proposals, COM(2007) 696 | The ‘Telecoms Reform Package’, which was presented by the Commission on 13 November 2007, will change the EU telecoms rules adopted in 2002. It is expected to become law by the end of 2009 and includes the following main features: - New consumer rights such as the right to switch telecoms operators within 1 day; the right to transparent and comparable price information; the possibility to call freephone numbers from abroad; and a more effective single European emergency number 112. - More consumer choice through more competition, especially by giving national telecoms regulators the new remedy of functional separation for dominant telecom operators. - More security in using communication networks, especially through new instruments to fight spam, viruses and other cyber attacks. - A ‘New Deal’ for radio spectrum — the lifeblood of all wireless communication services — to spur investment in new infrastructures and to ensure ‘broadband access for everyone’. In rural areas of the EU, only 72% of the population on average have broadband access. The Commission wants to overcome this ‘digital divide’ by better managing radio spectrum and by making spectrum available for wireless broadband services in regions where building a new fibre infrastructure is too costly. The switchover from analogue to digital TV will free a substantial amount of radio spectrum (the ‘digital dividend’) that can be used for this purpose. - Better regulation in telecoms by deregulating those markets where EU-driven market-opening has already led to competition; this will allow the Commission and national regulators to focus on the main bottlenecks, such as the broadband market. - More independent watchdogs to guarantee fair regulation in the interest of consumers. Too often, telecoms regulators are still close to the dominant operator, which continues to be partly owned by the national government in many countries. The EU Telecoms Reform is designed to strengthen the independence of national telecoms watchdogs from operators and governments alike. To quickly and effectively implement the reform, the Commission proposes establishing a European Telecom Market Authority that will help ensure that important communication services (such as Internet broadband access, data roaming, mobile phone usage on planes and ships and cross-border business services) are regulated more consistently across the 27 EU Member States. The European Telecom Market Authority will more effectively combine the functions of the current European Regulators Group (ERG) and the current European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA). To become law, the Commission proposals need to be approved by the European Parliament and the EU Council of Ministers. |
| Communication ‘Progress report on the single European electronic communications market 2007 (13th Report)’ COM(2008) 153, 19.03.2008 | The progress report presented a snapshot of Europe’s Single Telecoms Market as of December 2007, based on facts and figures from national telecoms regulators and market players. |
| Communication Advancing the Internet - Action Plan for the deployment of Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) in Europe, COM(2008) 313, 27.05.2008 | Increasing demand for Internet-based services means that there would not be enough addresses to support this expected growth, if no action is taken. Encouraging internet users and providers to adopt the latest Internet Protocol (IP version 6 or IPv6) will provide a massive increase in address space, much in the same way as telephone numbers were lengthened in the 20th century. In this Communication, the Commission sets Europe a target of getting 25% of EU industry, public authorities and households to use IPv6 by 2010. |
| Proposal for a Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 717/2007 on roaming on public mobile telephone networks and Directive 2002/21/EC on a common regulatory framework for electronic communications, COM(2008) 580, 23.09.2008 Communication on Roaming Regulation COM(2008) 579, 23.09.2008 | Mobile phone users can expect the cost of sending text messages from abroad in the EU to be much cheaper: the Commission proposed to reduce the price of roaming text messages by 60% as of 1 July 2009. EU citizens travelling in other EU countries should pay no more than €0.11 per SMS compared to the current EU average of €0.29. The Commission also wants to improve transparency for surfing the web and downloading data on a mobile phone while abroad: consumers used to cheaper data services at home should be better protected against roaming 'bill shocks' that can run to thousands of euro. The proposals have been submitted to the European Parliament and Council, who must agree before they become law. The EU already reduced charges for making and receiving calls abroad (voice roaming) by 60% in summer 2007. |
| Communication on the second periodic review of the scope of universal service in electronic communications networks and services, COM(2008) 572, 25.09.2008 | The concept of universal service in telecoms is about a safety net guaranteeing a minimum level of services, such as connection to a phone network and basic Internet access, that would fill the basic needs that the market fails to address. The Commission report shows that competitive markets for broadband Internet are providing EU citizens widespread and affordable access; however, further efforts are needed to ensure broadband for all. The report asks whether a new universal service obligation should be considered. |
| Communication on future networks and the internet, COM(2008) 594, 29.09.2008 | The Communication proposes a coherent policy for preparing Europe's information society for the next decade of internet. A public consultation has subsequently been carried out on best responses to the opportunities. The report also introduced a new Broadband Performance Index (BPI) that compares national performance on key measures such as broadband speed, price, competition and coverage. |
| Recommendation on notifications, time limits and consultations provided for in Article 7 of Directive 2002/21/EC on a common regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services, C(2008) 5925, 15.10.2008 | The Recommendation reduces administrative demands on national telecoms regulators when submitting draft regulatory measures to the Commission under the so-called Article 7 procedure . Since 2003, the Commission has reviewed more than 800 national regulators' decisions to break traditional telecoms monopolies and open up networks for competitors. The new Recommendation allows national regulators to use a simplified form to notify the Commission of certain decisions. |
| Communication on the legal framework for mobile TV networks and services: best practice for authorisation – the EU model, COM(2008) 845, 10.12.2009 | Consumers are becoming increasingly interested in using mobile TV. However, before a commercial operator can launch such a service, they need an authorisation from the Member State. The new guidelines identify the main principles which regulators and governments in the EU should follow when authorising operators to provide Mobile TV services. The guidelines aim to accelerate the roll-out of these services across Europe. |
| Communication Investing today for tomorrows Europe', COM(2009) 36, 28.01.2009 Proposal for a Council Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005 on support for rural development by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), COM(2009) 38 - 2009/0011 (CNS), 28.01.2009 | The Commission aims to achieve 100 % high-speed internet coverage for all citizens by 2010 as part of the European Economic Recovery Plan. In January 2009 the Commission proposed to earmark € 1 billion to help rural areas get online, bring new jobs and help businesses grow. The funds, to come from unspent EU budget, were proposed to be targetted through the existing EU's Rural Development Fund to cover the 'white spots' on Europe's broadband map (30% of the population in rural areas who do not have broadband access). |
| Communication Better access for rural areas to modern ICT, COM(2009) 103, 03.03.2009 | Connecting the 30% of the EU's rural population that has no high speed internet access should be a priority for achieving broadband for all by 2010. In a followup to its communication of January (see above), the Commission outlined how it would use its own support programmes to boost internet networks and services in rural areas, and called on EU Member States to do the same. |
| Communication ‘Progress report on the single European electronic communications market 2008 (14th Report)’ COM(2009) 140, 24.03.2008 | The report gives a snapshot of the EU’s telecoms market and the main regulatory developments that took place in 2008. It is based on facts and figures from national telecoms regulators and market players, verified by Commission experts. The report notes that Europe leads the world in mobile phone services. Despite the economic crisis, the EU's telecoms sector continued to grow in 2008, outperforming the rest of the economy. Average mobile phone bills have fallen. However, the report also warns that without better European coordination, the benefits of a single telecoms market could be jeopardised by inconsistent national regulation. |
| Commission Recommendation on the Regulatory Treatment of Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates in the EU, C(2009) 3359, 07.05.2009 | The Recommendation sets out guidance for EU telecoms regulators on the cost-based method to be used when calculating termination rates – the wholesale fees charged by operators to connect the call from another operator's network which are part of everyone's phone bill. The Recommendation indicates specifically that termination rates at national level should be based only on the real costs that an efficient operator incurs to establish the connection. Eliminating price distortions between phone operators across the EU will lower consumer prices for voice calls within and between Member States. |
| Communication 'Internet of Things — An action plan for Europe', COM(2009) 278, 18.6.2009 | Today’s internet links about 1.5 billion users worldwide through computers and mobile devices (about 300 million in the EU). In the coming years also machines and various physical objects will get connected, thus creating the ‘internet of things’. Among the 14 actions proposed in the plan to promote the evolution of this internet of things in the EU, are standardisation of the technologies involved across Europe and better funding of research, as well as measures to protect people's privacy, data and security as the new technology takes shape around them. |
| Commission regulation (EC) No 4521/2009 amending Regulation (EC) No 874/2004 laying down public policy rules concerning the implementation and functions of the .eu Top Level Domain and the principles governing registration, 26.06.2009 | The new EU rules make it possible for internet users and businesses to register domain names under .eu using the characters of all the 23 official languages of the European Union, now including Cyrillic and Greek scripts. This means that later in 2009 .eu will also be available in the alphabets used by Bulgarians, Greeks and Cypriots and special characters used in other languages. |
Action 2: Making spectrum management more efficient | |
| Communication on a forward-looking radio spectrum policy for the European Union — Second annual report, COM(2005) 411, 06.09.2005 | The Spectrum Policy Report identified policy priorities for more flexible spectrum management and an action plan for their implementation. |
| Communication on a market-based approach to spectrum management in the European Union, COM(2005) 400, 14.09.2005 | The Communication paved the way for the coordinated introduction of secondary trading of radio frequencies in the Union by 2010. |
| Communication on EU spectrum policy priorities for the digital switchover, COM(2005) 461, 29.09.2005 | The Communication provided guidance for international spectrum negotiations in the ITU Regional Radiocommunications Conference (RRC-06) with particular reference to the spectrum implications of the digital switchover. |
| Commission Decision 2005/513/EC on the harmonised use of radio spectrum in the 5 GHz frequency band for the implementation of Wireless Access Systems including Radio Local Area Networks (WAS/RLANs), 11.07.2005 | This decision makes available in all Member States a substantial amount of radio spectrum for radio local area networks (RLANs) — commonly known as ‘Wi-Fi’ — to provide access on the move to the Internet and private networks. |
| Commission Decision 2005/928/EC on the harmonisation of the 169.4-169.8125 MHz frequency band in the Community (frequency band originally designated for the ERMES paging system), 20.12.2005 (amended by Commission Decision 2008/673/EC, 13.08.2008). | Spectrum bands reserved for paging systems no longer in use were reallocated in the whole EU to special needs applications such as hearing aids and emergency alarms. |
| Commission Decisions: 2006/771/EC on the harmonisation of the radio spectrum for use by short-range devices, 09.11.2006 (;amended by Commission Decisions 2008/432/EC, 23.05.2008 and 2009/381/EC, 13.05.2009) and 2006/804/EC on the harmonisation of the radio spectrum for radio frequency identification (RFID) devices operating in the ultra high frequency (UHF) band, 23.11.2006 | The two Decisions, applicable throughout the EU, specify harmonised conditions for the use of radio spectrum for a large range of low-power short-range radio transmitters. Thanks to these Decisions, consumers do not need to worry whether a wireless product bought in one Member State will work in another. One harmonisation measure covers RFIDs in the UHF band and the other addresses certain equipment categories of relevance today, but also has a built-in mechanism to extend it to new devices. This update mechanism was already used twice. |
| Communication on rapid access to spectrum for wireless electronic communications services through more flexibility, COM(2007) 50, 08.02.2007 | The aim of this Communication is to set out the practical steps necessary from now until 2010 to pave the way towards more flexible spectrum management in bands used for electronic communications services with individual rights of use. |
| Commission Decision 2007/98/EC on the harmonised use of radio spectrum in the 2 GHz frequency bands for the implementation of systems providing mobile satellite services, 14.02.2007 | This Decision is an important step in facilitating the introduction of new and innovative Mobile Satellite Service systems providing services such as satellite data casting or multimedia broadcasting (including mobile TV) via a coordinated EU approach. |
| Commission Decision 2007/131/EC on allowing the use of the radio spectrum for equipment using ultra-wideband technology in a harmonised manner in the Community, 21.02.2007 (amended by 2009/343/EC, 21.04.09). | This harmonising decision outlines mandatory conditions for using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology in new-generation wireless devices (such as laptops, mobile phones, digital cameras) in the EU. It allows innovators to use this new technology throughout the EU without interference with other wireless users. With UWB, many electronic devices so far linked by cable will have a wireless alternative offering the same data rates. |
| Communication on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) in Europe: Steps towards a policy framework, COM(2007) 96, 13.3.2007 | From today’s simple radio tags to tomorrow’s intelligent and networked systems, RFID applications will create many opportunities for business and society. But the more intensive and extensive use of RFID also raises questions in the areas of privacy, security, technological reliability and international compatibility. The Communication on RFID identifies RFID-related issues of high importance for Europe, together with a plan for future action at European level. |
| Commission Decision 2007/344/EC on harmonised availability of information regarding spectrum use within the Community, 16.05.2007 | Radio spectrum users can benefit from greater clarity on what spectrum is available and how this may be used across Europe, thanks to this Decision, which defines a common format and level of detail for information that Member States should provide. This common approach enables the establishment of a single information point containing comparable data. |
| Communication ‘The ITU World Radio-communication Conference 2007 (WRC-07)’, COM(2007) 371, 02.07.2007 | The Communication outlines the EU’s positions on what needs to be achieved at the 2007 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-07) of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in areas such as future terrestrial mobile systems, Earth exploration, digital radio broadcasting, and aviation applications. |
| Proposal for a Directive repealing Council Directive 87/372/EEC on the frequency bands to be reserved for the coordinated introduction of public pan-European cellular digital land-based mobile communications in the Community COM(2007) 367, 25.07.2007 | The Commission has proposed measures to make it easier and more lucrative for mobile operators in Europe to offer and develop innovative wireless technologies. By opening radio spectrum for advanced mobile data and multimedia services (such as 3G services that allow video streaming and fast downloads on a mobile handset), the Commission proposals aim to increase the number and choice of wireless services available, as well as to expand their geographic coverage to the benefit of all European citizens. The proposals also aim to reduce network deployment costs for Europe’s wireless communications industry. [to be updated, codecision adoption expected shortly] |
| Decision 2008/626/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the selection and authorisation of systems providing mobile satellite services (MSS), 30.06.2008 | The new selection mechanism aims to allow innovative services, such as mobile TV, broadband data and emergency communications, to develop smoothly throughout Europe from 2009. |
| Communication ‘Reaping the full benefits of the digital dividend in Europe: A common approach to the use of the spectrum released by the digital switchover’, COM(2007) 700, 13.11.2007 | (See Action 1, Proposals for a reform of the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications) |
| Commission Decision 2008/286/EC amending Decision 2007/176/EC as regards the List of standards and/or specifications for electronic communications networks, services and associated facilities and services, 17.03.2008 | The Commission has added the Digital Video Broadcasting Handheld standard (DVB-H) to the EU List of Standards, which serves as a basis for encouraging the harmonised provision of telecommunications across the EU. The addition of DVB-H is a new step towards establishing a Single Market for Mobile TV in Europe that will enable all EU citizens to watch TV on the move. Member States are required to encourage the use of DVB-H. |
| Commission Decision 2008/294/EC on harmonised conditions of spectrum use for the operation of mobile communication services on aircraft (MCA services), and Recommendation 2008/295/EC on authorisation of mobile communication services on aircraft (MCA services), 07.04.2008 | The measures harmonise the technical and licensing requirements for the use of mobile phones on board aircrafts. As a result, businesspeople and consumers will be able to receive and make calls and messages safely with their own mobile phones while flying all over Europe. This means that the 90% of European air passengers that already carry mobile phones on-board aircraft, can remain contactable during flights. |
| Commission Decision 2008/411/EC on the harmonisation of the 3400 - 3800 MHz frequency band for terrestrial systems capable of providing electronic communications services in the Community, 21.05.2008 | The Decision harmonises 3400-3800 MHz frequency band for terrestrial systems capable of providing electronic communications and ensures coherent technical conditions within the Community for the provision of services such as broadband wireless access. |
| Commission Decision 2008/477/EC on the harmonisation of the 2500-2690 MHz frequency band for terrestrial systems capable of providing electronic communications services in the Community, 13.06.2008 | The Decision harmonises the 2500-2690 MHz frequency band for terrestrial systems capable of providing electronic communications and ensures coherent technical conditions within the Community for the provision of services such as mobile Internet access. |
| Commission Decision 2008/671/EC on the harmonised use of radio spectrum in the 5875 - 5905 MHz frequency band for safety related applications of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), 05.08.2008 | The Decision earmarks the frequency band 5875-5905 MHz across Europe for smart vehicle communications systems (so called co-operative systems). They are based on wireless communication technology and allow cars to talk to other cars and to the road infrastructure providers. |
| Commission Recommendation on the implementation of privacy and data protection principles in applications supported by radio-frequency identification, C(2009) 3200, 12.5.2009 | The recommendation provides guidance to Member States on the design and operation of RFID applications in a lawful, ethical and socially and politically acceptable way, respecting the right to privacy and ensuring protection of personal data. |
Action 3: A consistent internal market framework promoting the development of high quality and innovative information society and media services | |
| Commission Recommendation on collective cross-border management of copyright and related rights for legitimate online music services (2005/737/EC), 18.10.2005 | The Recommendation puts forward measures for improving EU-wide licensing of copyright for online services. The development of EU-wide copyright licenses should allow new online music services to develop their full potential. |
| Proposal for a Directive on payment services in the internal market, COM(2005) 603, 01.12.2005 | The proposed Directive brings down existing legal barriers in order to create a ‘Single Payments Area’ in the EU. The aim is to make cross-border payments — by credit card, debit card, electronic bank transfer, direct debit or any other means — as easy, cheap and secure as ‘national’ payments within one Member State. |
| Legislative proposal for an Audiovisual Media Services Directive (revision of the ‘Television Without Frontiers’ Directive), COM(2005) 646, 13.12.2005 | The proposal aims to create a single framework for all types of audiovisual media services, irrespective of the technology used to transmit or receive them. The objective is to create a level playing field for the different providers of audiovisual content and provide operators of non-linear audiovisual media services with the legal certainty necessary to offer their services on a pan-European basis. |
| Commission Decision on re-use of Commission information (2006/291/EC), 07.04.2006 | The Decision determines the conditions for the re-use of documents held by the Commission or on its behalf by the Office for Official Publications of the European Communities with the aim of facilitating wider re-use of this information. |
| European Charter for the Development and the Take-up of Film Online, 23.05.2006 | The Charter identifies commendable practices for bringing film online via legitimate services and in a consumer-friendly way. It was initiated by the Commission and agreed by business leaders at the Cannes Film Festival in 2006. It aims to be the point of reference for the film and content industry, Internet service providers and telecom operators. |
| Adoption of the MEDIA 2007 Programme, Decision 1718/2006/EC, 15.11.2006 | Launched on 11.02.2007, the MEDIA 2007 programme will provide a €755 million boost to Europe’s film industry over the next seven years. Almost 65% of the budget will help broaden the circulation of European works to other countries in Europe and worldwide. MEDIA 2007 provides easier access to finance and promotes increased use of digital technologies. |
| Adoption of the eContentplus 2006 Work Programme and call for proposals | The work programme set the following objectives for 2006: geographic information, educational content, digital libraries (cultural and scientific/scholarly content), and reinforcing cooperation between digital content stakeholders. |
| Commission staff working paper on media pluralism, SEC(2007) 32, 16.01.2007 | Responding to political concerns about media concentration and its possible effects on pluralism and freedom of expression, the Commission presented a three-step approach to advancing the debate on media pluralism in the EU. |
| Green Paper on the Review of the Consumer Acquis, COM(2006) 744, 08.02.2007 | The Green Paper launched a major new drive to adapt core EU consumer rules to the challenges of the fast-changing digital world. The paper identified a number of problems with the current legislation in the area of consumer protection, presented the main options for reform and initiated a public consultation. |
| Communication ‘A single market for citizens — Interim Report to the 2007 Spring European Council’, COM(2007) 60, 21.02.2007 | The report sketched out a new vision for the single market of the future. It was followed later in 2007 by a full review of the single market (see below). |
| Single market review package: Communication on a single market for 21st century Europe, COM(2007) 724 and associated documents, 20.11.2007 | The Communication concludes the review initiated in 2006 and transforms the ‘vision paper’ of February 2007 into an operational set of initiatives to re-position the single market. Proposals include a European e-invoicing framework, an action plan on e-authentication and e-signatures, a standardisation strategy, as well as an initiative on universal service in support of an information society for all, in line with the new reform proposals for EU telecom rules. |
| Communication on a European approach to media literacy in the digital environment, COM(2007) 833, 20.12.2007 | The Communication is the first EU-level policy document on media literacy — the ability of people to critically analyse what they find in the media and to make more informed choices. The document focuses on: 1) media literacy for commercial communication, covering issues related to advertising, 2) media literacy for audiovisual works, which is in part about raising awareness of European film and enhancing creativity skills, 3) and online media literacy, which, for example, will give citizens a better understanding of how Google and other Internet search engines work. |
| Communication on creative content online in the Single Market, COM(2007) 836, 03.01.2008 | The Communication launched actions to support the development of innovative business models and the cross-border delivery of diverse online creative content services. The Commission has identified four main, horizontal challenges that merit further action at EU level: 1) availability of creative content, 2) multi-territory licensing for creative content, 3) interoperability and transparency of Digital Rights Management systems (DRMs) and 4) legal offers and piracy. The Communication opened a public consultation in order to prepare, by mid-2008, an EU Recommendation on Creative Content Online. |
| Proposal for a Decision establishing an audiovisual cooperation programme with professionals from third countries MEDIA Mundus, COM(2008) 892, 09.01.2009 | The new MEDIA Mundus is an international cooperation programme for the audiovisual industry to strengthen cultural and commercial relations between Europe's film industry and film-makers of third countries. The EU will provide €15 million of funding from 2011-2013 for projects submitted by audiovisual professionals from the EU and third countries. |
| Communication concerning the State aid assessment criteria of the Commission communication on certain legal aspects relating to cinematographic and other audiovisual works (Cinema Communication) of 26 September 2001, (2009/C 31/01), 07.02.2009 | The Communication extends the validity of the state aid assessment criteria for the production of films and audiovisual works until 31 December 2012. These criteria, laid down in a Commission Communication of 2001, are used by the Commission to approve Europe’s national, regional and local film support schemes under the EU's state aid rules. The new Commission Communication also identifies a number of trends which are likely to have to be addressed by a future Cinema Communication. |
| eYouGuide to your rights online, launched 05/05/2009 ec.europa.eu/eyouguide | The Commission's eYouGuide is an online tool giving practical advice on the 'digital rights' consumers have under EU law. The guide addresses consumer issues such as the rights towards your broadband provider, shopping on the web, downloading music and protecting your personal data online and on social networking sites. Giving consumers clear information about their rights will increase trust and help unlock the full economic potential of Europe's single online market. |
| Communication on re-use of Public Sector Information - review of Directive 2003/98/EC, COM(2009) 212, 07.05.2009 | European citizens use products and services based on the vast amounts of information produced, collected and shared by public sector bodies, such as car navigation systems, weather forecasts and financial and insurance services, on a daily basis. Still, much of Europe's public sector information is not re-used. The Commission calls on EU Member States to make it easier to access and re-use public sector information. |
1.2 — Increasing security of networks | |
Action 4: Strategy for a secure European Information Society — increasing trust and confidence | |
| Report on the operation of the Directive on electronic signatures, COM(2006) 120, 15.03.2006 | The report reviews the operation of the Directive on electronic signatures: most applications are found in the field of e-banking and e-government but the use of qualified electronic signatures has been much lower than expected. |
| Communication ‘A strategy for a Secure Information Society — Dialogue, partnership and empowerment’ COM(2006) 251, 31.05.2006 | The strategy builds a framework and develops synergies among the various policy initiatives for network and information security. It calls for a structured process of consultation and dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including public administrations, the private sector, individual users and the European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA). |
| Communication on fighting spam, spyware and malicious software, COM(2006) 688, 15.11.2006 | Despite existing EU legislation outlawing spam, Europe continues to suffer from illegal online activities both from inside the EU and from third countries. The Commission stresses that national authorities must step up their prosecution of such activities. The Communication takes stock of the efforts made so far to fight these threats and identifies further action that can be taken. |
| Communication concerning the final evaluation of the Safer Internet Action Plan (2003-2004), COM(2006) 663, 6.11.2006 | The final evaluation of the first generation of Safer Internet activities is a necessary step for further policy development, including the presentation of a new programme in 2008. |
| Communication on the implementation of the Safer Internet plus programme (2005-2008) COM(2006) 661, 6.11.2006 | Assessment of the first phase of operation of the programme provides the basis for defining the complete financial framework for the Programme. |
| Adoption of the Safer Internet plus 2006 Work Programme and call for proposals | The 2006 call addressed all action lines under the Programme. For actions to fight illegal content and raise awareness, the call invited proposals from Member States where no hotline or awareness nodes had previously been established. |
| European Programme for Critical Infrastructure Protection (EPCIP), COM(2006) 786, 12.12.2006 | Critical infrastructure can be damaged, destroyed or disrupted by deliberate acts of terrorism, natural disasters, negligence, accidents, as well as computer hacking, criminal activity and malicious behaviour. The Commission presented a package of new measures to improve the protection of critical infrastructure in Europe, including critical ICT infrastructure. |
| Decision C(2007) 249 on reserving the national numbering range beginning with ‘116’ for harmonised numbers for harmonised services of social value, 12.02.2007 | The Commission has adopted a Decision reserving the 116 000 telephone number in all Member States as a hotline for reporting missing children. Calling 116 000 is free of charge throughout Europe. It is up to the Member States to select an association or authority to manage this service. All other numbers beginning with 116 are also reserved for social services in Europe. |
| Communication ‘Promoting Data Protection by Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs)’ COM(2007) 228, 02.05.2007 | The Communication identifies the benefits of Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) and lays down the Commission’s objectives in this field. Those objectives are to be achieved through a number of specific actions supporting the development of PETs and their use by data controllers and consumers. |
| Communication ‘Towards a general policy on the fight against cyber crime’, COM(2007) 267, 22.05.2007 | The Communication outlines actions to improve cooperation between law enforcement authorities and between law enforcement and private sector operators in fighting cyber crime. The actions will complement other actions taken at national, European and international level. |
| Proposal for Decision establishing a multiannual Community programme on protecting children using the Internet and other communication technologies, COM(2008) 106, 27.02.2008 | Safer Internet 2009-2013 builds upon the successful Safer Internet plus programme and will have a budget of €55 million. Encompassing recent Web 2.0 communications services such as social networking, the new programme will fight not only illegal content but also harmful conduct such as grooming and bullying. |
| Communication On the protection of consumers, in particular minors, in respect of the use of video games, COM(2008) 207, 22.04.2008 | There are public concerns that video games can cause aggressive behaviour, heightened by school shootings such as in Helsinki (Finland, November 2007). The Commission has surveyed existing measures protecting minors from harmful video games across the 27 EU Member States. 20 EU Member States now apply PEGI (Pan European Games Information), an age-rating system developed by industry, with EU support, since 2003. In the Commission's view, industry must invest more to strengthen and in particular to regularly update the PEGI system so that it becomes a truly effective pan-European tool. |
| Communication Protecting Europe from large scale cyber attacks and disruptions: enhancing preparedness, security and resilience, COM(2009) 149 | Our life and economy have become increasingly dependent on information infrastructures such as computer networks and telephone lines, which therefore need to be safe. As we get more and more interconnected, failures of these infrastructures may cascade and spread beyond national borders. To address this risk, the Commission has launched a policy initiative on Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP), which focuses on prevention, preparedness and awareness and defines a plan for immediate actions to strengthen the security and resilience of CIIs. It complements the European Programme for Critical Infrastructure Protection (EPCIP). |
| Communication on the application of State aid rules to public service broadcasting as adopted by the Commission, COM(2009) …, 02.07.2009 | The Communication provides a clear framework for the development of public broadcasting services and enhances legal certainty for investment by public and private media alike. The main changes include an increased focus on accountability and effective control at the national level, including a transparent evaluation of the overall impact of publicly-funded new media services. |
2 — Innovation and investment in research | |
2.1 — Promoting research and innovation | |
Action 5: Strengthening European research through the Framework Programmes | |
| Launch of the European Technology Platforms (ETPs), 2005-2006 | European Technology Platforms help industrial and academic research communities in specific technology fields to coordinate their research and tailor it to a common ‘strategic research agenda’. Nine Platforms have been established in ICT areas: nanoelectronics (ENIAC), embedded systems (ARTEMIS), mobile and wireless communications (eMobility), networked electronic media (NEM), networked software and services (NESSI), robotics (EUROP), photonics (PHOTONICS21), satellite communications (ISI) and smart systems integration (EPoSS). |
| Adoption of Decisions establishing the 7th Framework Programme for Research (2007-2013), Decision No 1982/2006/EC, 18.12.2006, and others (2006/971/EC, 19.12.2006 — Specific Programme ‘Cooperation’) | The Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) bundles all research-related EU initiatives together under a common roof and has a crucial role to play in reaching the goals of growth, competitiveness and employment. The broad objectives of FP7 are grouped into four categories: Cooperation, Ideas, People and Capacities. The ICT priority theme is addressed mainly in the ‘Cooperation’ Specific Programme. |
| Adoption of the ICT Work Programme 2007-2008 under the 7th Framework Programme for Research (FP7) | The Work Programme for the ICT theme of the FP7 Specific Programme ‘Cooperation’ defines the priorities and criteria for the calls for proposals launched in 2007. It addresses seven ‘challenges’ of strategic interest to European society (1. Pervasive and trusted network and service infrastructures; 2. Cognitive systems, interaction and robotics; 3. Components, systems and engineering; 4. Digital libraries and content; 5. Sustainable and personalised healthcare; 6. Mobility, environmental sustainability and energy efficiency; 7. Independent living and inclusion), along with research into ‘future and emerging technologies’ and support for horizontal actions, such as international cooperation. Furthermore, research e-Infrastructures is supported through the Research Infrastructures Work Programme for the ‘Capacities’ programme. |
| Proposal for a Council Regulation on the establishment of the ‘ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking’ to implement a Joint Technology Initiative in Embedded Computing Systems, COM(2007) 243, 15.05.2007 | The Commission proposed a new kind of Europe-wide public-private R&D partnership — Joint Technology Initiatives (JTIs) — in embedded computing systems. JTIs pool industry, Member State and Commission resources to conduct targeted research programmes. They move away from the traditional case-by-case public research funding approach towards large-scale research programmes with common strategic research targets. |
| Proposal for a Council Regulation Setting up the ‘ENIAC Joint Undertaking’, COM(2007) 356, 22.06.2007 | The second Commission proposal for a Joint Technology Initiative concerns nanoelectronics. This Europe-wide public-private research partnership, called ENIAC, is to have a €3bn budget from industry, the Member States and the Commission, and aims to create a strong nanoelectronics research and manufacturing sector in Europe. The ultimate aim is to generate innovative products with in-built intelligence in numerous areas such as the consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare and environmental management sectors. |
Action 6: Making innovation and research policies more efficient | |
| Action Plan for European Standardisation, April 2006 | This four-year rolling action plan outlines the main actions to be implemented, including in the area of ICTs, and defines a timeframe for carrying out these actions, subject to a review after 2 years. |
| Communication ‘Putting knowledge into practice: a broad-based innovation strategy for the EU’, COM(2006) 502, 13.09.2006 | This 10-point programme urges action at national and European levels to foster innovation in the EU economy. The Commission outlines the concept of lead markets where public authorities facilitate industry-led innovation by creating conditions for the successful market uptake of innovative products and services in key areas of societal demands. |
| Communication to the European Council informal meeting in Lahti: An innovation-friendly, modern Europe. COM(2006) 589, 12.10.2006 | The document focuses on several specific measures that could boost Europe’s innovative capacity in a relatively short period of time. The proposed measures concern the establishment of European leadership in future strategic technologies, forging stronger links between universities, research and business, as well as improving the framework conditions for R&D investment. |
| Launch of a European Network of Living Labs, 20.11.2006 | The European Network of Living Labs creates a platform where firms, public authorities and citizens can work together on developing and testing new technologies, business models and services in real-life contexts. The ultimate aim is to set up a new European Innovation Infrastructure where users play an active role in innovation. |
| Preparation of the ICT PSP Work Programme 2007 | The ICT Policy Support Programme (ICT PSP) in the Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP) supports the aims of the i2010 strategy, building on the previous e-TEN, Modinis and e-Content programmes. In 2007 the programme focused on three main themes: efficient and interoperable eGovernment services; ICTs for accessibility, ageing and social integration; and ICTs for sustainable and interoperable health services. |
| Green Paper: The European Research Area- New Perspectives, COM(2007)161, 4.4.2007 | The Green Paper launched a debate on how to create a unified and attractive European research area (ERA), a European internal market for research, where researchers, technology and knowledge freely circulate and where there is effective European-level coordination of national and regional research activities, programmes and policies. The Commission and Member States launched new iniatives to develop ERA, including enhanced political governance through the ´Ljubljana Process´ and five specific policy initiatives. |
| Communication on pre-commercial procurement: driving innovation to ensure sustainable high quality public services in Europe, COM(2007) 799, 14.12.2007 | The Communication proposes a new strategy for harnessing the innovative potential of public spending in Europe in the field of Research and Development (R&D). Europe could do substantially more at the pre-commercial stage, where products and services are not yet ripe for the market, and where investment is particularly risk-prone but crucial for research breakthroughs. For the Commission, such pre-commercial procurement could tap unused potential especially in high-tech areas, such as research into information and communication technologies for health care and medicine. The strategy launches a debate with the 27 EU Member States on where and how to focus the pre-commercial procurement of R&D. |
| Communication ‘A lead market initiative for Europe’, COM(2007) 860 21.12.2007 | Europe can develop innovation-friendly markets in a more targeted way, considerably facilitating the marketing of innovations. That is what the Lead Markets Initiative seeks to do. eHealth is one of the six markets identified for the initial stage of the initiative. The Commission presents ambitious action plans for these markets to rapidly secure tangible advantages for Europe’s economy and consumers. |
| Council regulation on the Community legal framework for a European Research Infrastructure (ERI), COM (2008) 467 | The legal framework assists Member States to develop and fund pan-European Research Infrastructures, including eInfrastructures, many of which have already been identified through ESFRI, the European Strategic Forum on Research Infrastructures. |
| Towards joint programming in research: Working together to tackle common challenges more effectively, COM(2008)468, 15.7.2008 | The Commission proposed that Member States develop and implement common Strategic Research Agendas addressing major societal challenges, thereby eliminating unnecessary cross European duplication by pooling data, resources and expertise currently scattered across Europe. |
| Communication A strategic European framework for international science and technology cooperation, COM(2008) 588, 24.09.2008 | The Commission proposes a strategy for strengthening science and technology cooperation with non-EU countries, notably in the field of ICT, where Europe is a strong exporter. The Commission invites Member States to define together, rather than in isolation, research areas where a coherent EU effort would have more impact. |
| Communication 'A strategy for ICT R&D and innovation in Europe: raising the game', COM(2009) 116, 13.03.2009 | Both Europe's market and research efforts are fragmented; as a result, Europe is lagging behind its global competitors in ICT research and in production of innovative ICT-based products and services. The proposed strategy calls on Member States and industry to pool resources and work together more in ICT research and innovation. The strategy also proposes showcase ICT innovation projects to deliver modern services infrastructures in areas like healthcare and energy efficiency. |
| Communication 'Moving the ICT frontiers – a strategy for research on future and emerging technologies in Europe', COM(2009) 184, 20.04.2009 | Unlimited computing power, computers mimicking the brain, mind-controlled wheelchairs and friendly robotic companions are part of this new European plan to boost visionary research. The Commission proposes to boost Europe's high-risk research into future technologies by doubling research investment at national and EU level in this area by 2015. The Commission pledges to lead by example, increasing the current funding of € 100 million per year by 70% by 2013. |
2.2 — Promoting ICT innovation and adoption for competitiveness and employment | |
Action 7: Promoting eBusiness solutions | |
| Establishment of the Enterprise Interoperability Centre (EIC), April 2006 | The EIC provides a platform for companies to discuss interoperability issues in their business relationships, with the focus on business-to-business processes, taking into account the various messaging standards available in each industry. |
3 — Inclusion, better public services and quality of life | |
3.1 — Facilitating wider inclusion, accessibility and digital literacy | |
Action 8: Further development of eAccessibility and a comprehensive eInclusion strategy | |
| Communication on eAccessibility COM(2005) 425, 13.09.2005 | The Communication calls upon the Member States to do more to promote eAccessibility and to encourage take-up by industry. While continuing to support measures such as standardisation, Design for All, web accessibility and research, the Commission also proposes: to improve the consistency of accessibility requirements in public procurement; to explore certification schemes for accessible products and services; and to make better use of the ‘eAccessibility potential’ of existing legislation. |
| Communication ‘Bridging the broadband gap’, COM(2006) 129, 20.03.2006 | The Communication focuses on the lack of adequate broadband services in the less developed areas of the Union. It assesses the instruments available at EU level to address this issue and proposes two main strands of action: the strengthening of national broadband strategies to set clear targets and reflect regional needs; and better exchange of best practice. |
| Riga Ministerial Declaration on eInclusion, 11.06.2006 | The ministerial conference in Riga launched preparations for the 2008 European Initiative on eInclusion. The concluding declaration set priorities and commitments for addressing the needs of older people, reducing geographical digital divides, enhancing eAccessibility, improving digital literacy and promoting cultural diversity as well as inclusive eGovernment. |
| Recommendation on key competences for lifelong learning, (2006/962/EC), 18.12.2006 | Every citizen must be equipped with the skills needed to live and work in the new information society. The European Parliament and the Council adopted the Commission proposal for a Recommendation providing a European reference tool on key competences, including digital competence, and on access to these competences through lifelong learning. |
| Communication ‘E-skills for the 21st century: fostering competitiveness, growth and jobs’, COM(2007) 496, 07.09.2007 | Recent surveys indicate that Europe may face severe e-skills shortages in the coming years. At the same time, e-skills are becoming central to productivity, employability and the response to global challenges. The Commission has therefore proposed a long-term e-skills agenda and a set of actions at EU level. |
| Communication ‘European i2010 initiative on e-Inclusion — To be part of the information society’, COM(2007) 694, 08.11.2007 | Despite technological progress and enhanced competition, more than one in three Europeans are still excluded from the full benefits of the digital society. To address this, the Commission sets out a European initiative to: 1) enable everyone to take part in the information society by bridging the accessibility, broadband and competence gaps; 2) boost the effective participation of those at risk of exclusion, and improve their quality of life; and 3) integrate e-Inclusion actions in Europe, so as to maximise their lasting impact. Among other things, the Communication announced a 2008 awareness-raising campaign ‘e-Inclusion, be part of it!’ and a ministerial conference at the end of that year. |
| 'Digital Literacy Report: a review for the i2010 eInclusion Initiative ', European Commission Working Paper, December 2008 | As part of its the commitment made in the 2006 Ministerial Riga Declaration on eInclusion, the Commission has carried out a review of 470 digital literacy initiatives in Europe. It finds that Member States have invested heavily in digital literacy and much has been achieved with increasing internet use by all sections of the population. However it warns that much remains to be done, particularly for the elderly, and finds evidence of a possible secondary digital divide in terms of quality of use. |
3.2 — Providing better public services | |
Action 9: Promoting ICT-enabled public services (eGovernment and eHealth) | |
| Commission decision on e-Commission 2006-2010: enabling efficiency and transparency, C(2005) 4473, 23.11.2005 | The Commission intends to lead by example by applying eGovernment to its own administration. The e-Commission initiative aims to deliver better-quality and more transparent services, guaranteeing security of information including the protection of personal data. |
| Action plan for the implementation of the legal framework for electronic public procurement (2004)841, 13.12.2004 and its implementing directives | 'The application of new ICT technologies has the potential to transform public (and private) procurement. It can enhance and expedite communication between contracting authorities and bidders, reduce delays and transactions costs, and widen the pool of tenderers. Many of the technical solutions to support straight through e-procurement are coming on stream. The Commission – through its e-procurement Action plan (2004) and support for the PEPPOL project – is working to ensure that interoperable solutions are rolled out on a pan-European basis. |
| Communication on interoperability for pan-European eGovernment services, COM(2006) 45, 13.02.2006 | Interoperability in eGovernment requires that the multiple layers of government at national, regional and local levels are able to ‘talk to each other’. The Communication calls upon the Member States and industry to collaborate to make such interoperability happen. More concrete steps follow in the eGovernment Action Plan. |
| Communication on i2010 eGovernment Action Plan: Accelerating eGovernment in Europe for the Benefit of All, COM(2006) 173, 25.04.2006 | The eGovernment Action Plan addresses five priority areas, with ambitious objectives to be reached by 2010: 1) ensuring all citizens have access to a wide range of technologies; 2) raising administrative efficiency; 3) implementing e-Procurement; 4) ensuring secure access to services across the EU; and 5) strengthening participation and democratic decision-making. |
| Decision of the Commission on the EU Public Licence, C(2008) 891,9.1.2008 | The EUPL is the first European Free/Open Source Software (F/OSS) Licence. The EUPL has been approved as a Licence to be used for the distribution of software developed in the framework of the IDA and IDABC programmes. Nevertheless, the text of the Licence is drafted in general terms, so the Licence may be used for other software applications, as the case may be, by other European Institutions, by national, regional or local administrations, other public entities as well as private entities and natural persons. |
| Commission decision on e-Commission 2006-2010: Mid-Term Review, C(2008)7961, 11.12.2008 | Three years after the adoption of the e-Commission 2006-2010 strategy the overall picture is encouraging and most actions are on track. The Commission thus faces a new stage of e-government maturity where collaboration, common repositories, rationalisation and integration of the information systems portfolio will provide the framework to assemble processes in seamless operations so as to sustain the Commission's efforts in being a world-class, knowledge-based public administration. |
| Proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on interoperability solutions for European public administrations (ISA), COM(2008)583 12.12.2008 | This programme is the follow-on of IDABC which will come to an end on 31 December 2009. The ISA programme is focusing on interoperability solutions supporting the interaction between European public administrations and the implementation of Community policies and activities. The European Interoperability Framework (EIF) has been developed in the context of the IDA and IDABC programmes to support the European Union's strategy of providing user-centred eGovernment services by facilitating, at a pan-European level, the interoperability of services and systems between public administrations, as well as between administrations and the public (citizens, businesses). The EIF defines the general rules and principles for collaboration on interoperability between Member States and European Institutions. The first version of the EIF has been issued in 2004: the Commission is currently revising the European Interoperabilty Framework (EIF) to prepare a second version. |
| Communication on the final evaluation of the IDABC programme, COM(2009)247, 29.5.2009 | The evaluation describes the IDABC programme as being in line with the eGovernment policy priorities of the European Commission, as expressed in the i2010 strategy and the related eGovernment action plan and identifies some future challenges in this area. |
| EU Health Portal ‘Health-EU’, launched 10.05.2006 | Health-EU provides a single point of entry where citizens, administrations and specialists can find a wealth of health-related information and data from EU, national and sub-national levels. It is accessible at health.europa.eu. |
| Recommendation on cross-border interoperability of electronic health record (EHR) systems, (2008/594/EC), 02.07.2008 | The Recommendation aims to provide Member States with basic principles and guidelines for ensuring that doctors can gain access to vital information on patients that they are trying to treat, wherever such information may be located in Europe. This will improve the safety and quality of care for people who require medical assistance while travelling or living abroad. |
| Communication on telemedicine for the benefit of patients, healthcare systems and society, COM(2008) 689, 4.11.2008 | This Communication aims to support and improve access to telemedicine for EU citizens and healthcare professionals across Europe. In response to a call for action from Member States, this initiative aims to increase and broaden telemedicine services, including diagnosis, treatment and monitoring at a distance across Europe. Such services will allow, for example, a patient suffering from a rare retinal disease to be diagnosed in his hometown by a specialist working at a European Centre of Excellence for eye diseases located thousands of kilometres away. Patients with chronic heart failure will be able to have their disease more closely monitored and to enjoy better quality of life while staying at home. |
Action 10: Ageing Well in the Information Society | |
| Communication ‘Ageing well in the Information Society — An i2010 Initiative — Action Plan on Information and Communication Technologies and Ageing’, COM(2007) 332, 14.06.2007 Proposal for a Decision on participation by the Community in a research and development programme aimed at enhancing the quality of life of older people through the use of new Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), COM(2007) 329, 14.06.2007 | Responding to the needs of Europe’s growing ageing population, the Commission adopted a European Action Plan for ‘Ageing Well in the Information Society’. The action plan aims to help overcome technical and regulatory barriers to market development, to help raise awareness and share best practice, as well as to accelerate take-up through, for example, pilot projects and a European award scheme for smart homes and independent living applications. In particular, three areas of user needs are to be addressed: ageing well at work or ‘active ageing at work’, ageing well in the community, as well as ageing well at home. The action plan is accompanied by a new joint European research programme raising to over €1bn the investment on research into ICTs to improve the lives of older people. |
Action 11: Intelligent Car | |
| Second eSafety Communication ‘Bringing eCall to Citizens’, COM(2005) 431, 14.09.2005 | eCall is an in-vehicle safety system: when a car senses a major impact in an accident, its eCall device automatically calls the nearest emergency centre using 112. In response to the slow progress of eCall in the Member States, the Commission urges the national and regional governments to do more. The Communication provides a roadmap for full-scale roll-out of eCall. |
| Communication on the Intelligent Car Initiative ‘Raising Awareness of ICT for Smarter, Safer and Cleaner Vehicles’, COM(2006) 59, 15.02.2006 | The Commission’s Intelligent Car Initiative is a comprehensive initiative for smarter, safer and cleaner vehicles. The long-term objective is a situation where cars no longer crash and traffic congestion is reduced. The Communication presents a policy framework for action, comprising coordination of relevant stakeholders (eSafety Forum), ICT-based research and development, as well as awareness raising and stimulation of user demand. |
| Third eSafety Communication ‘Bringing eCall back on track — Action Plan’, COM(2006) 723, 23.11.2006 | An urgent set of actions to roll out emergency call (eCall) technology for cars in Europe has been proposed by the Commission. Member States have been given clear tasks with deadlines for solving the remaining issues and proceeding with the necessary 112, E112 and eCall infrastructures. Industry is asked to renew its commitment to eCall. |
| Commission Recommendation on safe and efficient in-vehicle information and communication systems: update of the European Statement of Principles on human machine interface (2007/78/EC), 22.12.2006 | The Commission has updated the Recommendation on human-machine interfaces in vehicles. This update responds to the increased presence of portable devices in cars such as mobile telephones, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) or laptops. The objective is to make the design and installation of these systems safer. |
| Communication ‘Towards Europe-wide safer, cleaner and efficient mobility: the first Intelligent Car report’, COM(2007) 541, 17.09.2007 | The Commission has outlined new plans to accelerate the drive for safer, cleaner and smarter cars. The next step is negotiations with European and Asian automotive industry associations to reach an agreement on offering the pan-European in-vehicle emergency call system (eCall) as a standard option in all new cars from 2010. The Commission continues to promote the take-up of other life-saving technologies and investigate how technology can help make cars greener and smarter. |
| Commission Decision 2008/671/EC on the harmonised use of radio spectrum in the 5875 - 5905 MHz frequency band for safety-related applications of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), 05.08.2008 | As part of its overall fight against road accidents and traffic jams, the Commission decided to reserve, across Europe, part of the radio spectrum for smart vehicle communications systems (so called co-operative systems). They are based on wireless communication technology and allow cars to talk to other cars and to the road infrastructure providers. They can, for example, warn other drivers of slippery roads or of a crash which just happened. Smart vehicle communication systems have the potential to make safer and ease the lives of Europe's drivers. |
| Communication Action Plan for the Deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems in Europe, COM(2008) 886, 16.12.2008 | With the objective to accelerate and coordinate the deployment and use of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) applications and services for road transport and their connections with other modes of transport, the ITS action plan proposes concrete measures in six priority areas to ensure seamless access and continuity of services throughout the EU. Such systems can help to make transport greener, reduce congestion and save lifes on Europe's roads. The ITS Action plan is a transport policy initiative which complements the Intelligent Car initiative and the work of the eSafety forum to make cars safer, cleaner and smarter. |
| Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down the framework for the deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems in the field of road transport and for interfaces with other transport modes, COM(2008), 887, 16.12.2008 | The proposed Directive accompanying the ITS Action Plan lays down the framework for the implementation of the measures identified in the Action Plan. It establishes a framework for the coordinated deployment and use of intelligent transport systems within the Community and the development of the specifications necessary. By ensuring the development and adoption of the necessary specifications and procedures, the proposed Directive will guarantee the required interoperability of systems and continuity of ITS services and applications. Both ITS Action Plan and Directive proposal will benefit from work carried out in the framework of the Intelligent Car Initiative. |
Action 12: Digital Libraries | |
| Communication on digital libraries, COM(2005) 465, 30.09.2005 | The Commission is promoting and coordinating work to build a European Digital Library — a common multilingual access point to Europe’s cultural heritage. The Communication proposes a first set of actions in the areas of: digitisation of content stored in traditional formats; online accessibility of this content; and digital preservation. The target as set to make two million books, films, photographs, manuscripts, and other cultural works accessible through the European Digital Library by 2008. This figure is planned to grow to at least six million by 2010. |
| Commission Decision setting up a High Level Expert Group on digital libraries, (2006/178/EC), 28.02.2006 | This advisory group also provides a forum for discussion with stakeholders. Its first contribution on the management of copyright addresses the practical problems of dealing with orphan and out-of-print works and digital preservation. |
| Commission Recommendation on the digitisation and online accessibility of cultural material and digital preservation, (2006/585/EC), 24.08.2006 | In the Recommendation, the Commission urges Member States to tackle three main areas: the digitisation of cultural material, its online accessibility and digital preservation. The institutions or Member States themselves are responsible for the selection of the material to be digitised. |
| Communication on scientific information in the digital age: access, dissemination and preservation, COM(2007) 56, 15.02.2007 | The Communication examines how new digital technologies can be better used to increase access to research publications and data. The Commission thereby launches an EU framework to support new ways of promoting better access to scientific information online and to preserve research results digitally for future generations. |
| Commission Decision setting up the Member States’ Expert Group on Digitisation and Digital Preservation (2007/320/EC), 22.03.2007 | The group monitors progress and assess the implementation of the Recommendation on the digitisation and online accessibility of cultural material and digital preservation, and the Council Conclusions on this topic. It is also a forum for sharing strategies and best practice. |
| 'Europeana' – Europe's Digital Library, launched at www.europeana.eu/">www.europeana.eu, 20.11.2008 | At www.europeana.eu, Internet users around the world can now access more than two million books, maps, recordings, photographs, archival documents, paintings and films from national libraries and cultural institutions of the EU's 27 Member States. Anyone interested in literature, art, science, politics, history, architecture, music or cinema will have free and fast access to Europe's greatest collections and masterpieces in a single virtual library through a web portal available in all EU languages. And this is just the beginning: Europeana will be expanded. |
Action 13: ICTs for sustainable growth | |
| Communication Addressing the challenge of energy efficiency through Information and Communication Technologies, COM(2008) 241, 13.05.2008 | As part of its effort to combat climate change, the Commission is promoting the use of ICT to improve energy efficiency throughout the economy, starting with buildings, lighting and the power grid. ICT can enable greener behaviour across the economy, which would massively cut Europe's carbon footprint if widely deployed. The Commission encourages the ICT sector, which accounts for 2% of global CO2 emissions, to lead by example the drive towards carbon neutrality. This will be done by reinforcing research, development and deployment of components and systems, complemented by voluntary agreements, for example on green procurement. The real gains from green ICT will come from developing energy-efficient ICT solutions that impact the other 98% of global emissions. The Communication focuses on three energy-intensive areas: energy generation and distribution, buildings, and lighting. |
| Communication Mobilising information and communication technologies to facilitate the transition to an energy-efficient, low-carbon economy, COM(2009) 111, 12.03.2009 | The Commission calls on Member States and industry to use ICT to improve energy efficiency, as this can reduce total carbon emissions in Europe by up to 15% by 2020 (Europe's overall target is 20%). ICT can help make people and companies more aware of how they use energy. It. With smart metering in their homes, for example, consumers have been found to reduce their energy consumption by as much as 10%. A public consultation was launched on what measures and commitments should follow. |
1This is a list of the actions launched, containing all items officially adopted before adoption of this Annual Report.
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