Europeanization through standardization : ICT and telecommunications

Abstract

This paper analyses the global reach of European Union (EU) policies and rules using international standardization for telecommunications and Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) as a case study. The nature of the telecoms and ICT sectors require interconnection and interoperability between networks, systems, and services. At the same time, interoperability and quality standards are conducive to market competition by enabling freedom of choice for users. On the other hand, telecoms and ICT technologies cannot be understood without the occurrence of network effects. In this light, the paper posits that regulatory and policy diffusion actually represent an externality of the EU Internal Market building process, complemented by a meaningful involvement of the EU in global standard-setting activities. While international standard-setting activities are largely dominated by non-state and private actors, the paper assesses how the EU manages regulatory and policy export through standardization.