Thierry Breton’s Resignation and Network Fees: What Can Brazil Learn from That?
Thierry Breton, a prominent advocate of network fees in Europe, has stepped down from his position as European Union Commissioner. His resignation comes amid ongoing debates about cost-sharing in telecommunications infrastructure, often referred to as “fair share.” This model suggests that large network users should bear a more significant financial burden when accessing telecom infrastructure. Breton, the former CEO of France Telecom, has been a leading proponent of this approach despite facing resistance from various sectors, including the European Commission itself.
In Brazil, a similar policy is being discussed. Anatel is currently holding a second round of public consultation on the possible implementation of network fees – a move that could disrupt the country’s digital landscape and increase market concentration in favor of major telecom operators. As highlighted in ongoing campaigns, this policy risks driving up costs for consumers and undermining net neutrality by prioritizing services that can afford enhanced access.
The public consultation initiated by Anatel has sparked significant mobilization, particularly among civil society organizations and technical experts. One of the most vigorous opponents is the Internet Society (ISOC), which champions an open Internet free from traffic discrimination. ISOC and other organizations have urged governments worldwide to reject cost-sharing measures, arguing that such policies violate net neutrality and create economic barriers to Internet access. They caution that network fees primarily benefit large telecom companies, ultimately harming consumers and threatening digital inclusion in Brazil.
Net neutrality, a cornerstone of the Internet’s architecture, guarantees equal treatment of all data, regardless of content, origin, or destination. Any form of data prioritization for commercial gain, as recently proposed by Anatel, risks undermining this principle. In Brazil, net neutrality was enshrined in the Marco Civil da Internet, a law shaped by a broad, inclusive debate involving representatives from all sectors of society.
The key takeaway from Breton’s resignation is that the threat of network fees can be countered through social mobilization and active involvement in public debates.
Sign the Open Letter in defense of Net Neutrality today and make your voice count.
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