Telecoms industry heralds crucial six months for Europe’s growth, innovation and security ahead of Danish Presidency of the EU

The GSMA – on behalf of Europe’s telecoms operators – and Danish industry association Teleindustrien look forward to Denmark’s term holding the Presidency of the European Union at such a pivotal juncture for the continent.

Europe has spent years, decades, standing still as other developed markets pulled ahead with digitalisation projects. Instead, we have lost out on the social and economic benefits high-speed connectivity can bring – especially growth and innovation.

In an increasingly fragmented geopolitical landscape, Europe now has an opportunity to return to a true global leadership role. This, however, can only be done with the right circumstances in place – consensus on the defining issues of our time, and a regulatory environment that supports rather than hinders. Europe must re-prioritise its ailing digital ecosystem and make it a vital enabler of not only growth and innovation, but also security and sovereignty.

We have long known how much more needs to be done. Over the past decade, European telecoms operators have invested more than €500 billion of their own funds into networks, particularly on the infrastructure and spectrum required to roll 5G out across the continent. This, however, has not been enough to keep pace with growing traffic demands. The European Union itself acknowledges that at least €200 billion more is required to make our mobile networks fit for current purpose – a conservative estimate and one not accounting for essential futureproofing and security needs.

The launch of the much-anticipated Digital Networks Act is expected to fall within the Danish Presidency. This is therefore a crucial period for the continent, and an opportunity to aim high and target world-leading status – an opportunity that must not be squandered.

It is essential that the DNA delivers the clear and forward-looking framework needed for mobile network operators to provide citizens with the fast, reliable connectivity that can form the backbone of a thriving, innovative and secure Europe.

This means a reduction in the regulatory burden on telecoms operators, fair and equivalent rules being imposed across the whole digital ecosystem. It demands a renewed focus on the sector’s competitiveness and its ability to drive the significant and required levels of investment, as well as a pro-investment approach to spectrum. Beyond the DNA, positive steps are also needed in reviewing the merger guidelines, to facilitate the necessary in-market consolidation that will allow operators to scale and attract the investment needed to upscale Europe’s digital capabilities.

The time for analysis is over. What is needed is action. Europe created many of the technologies that have connected the whole planet, from the original telephone to the World Wide Web. Now we need to return to those roots and encourage invention and innovation, all facilitated by best-in-class digital infrastructure. We hope the DNA effects real change and gives Europe the opportunity to return to its role as a global powerhouse and leader.

10 June 2025