A coalition of more than 50 European consumer and digitals rights groups, smaller ISPs and broadcasters have inked their name to a joint statement urging EU policymakers and Member States to reject a controversial network fee proposal being lobbied for by major telcos in the region.
They suggest any move to legislative for a mechanism that funnels direct payments to telecom incumbents would have “immediate and wide-ranging” negative consequences for European businesses and consumer interest — arguing it would hit consumer costs and choice by damaging the diversity and quality of products and services available online, as well as harming competition.
“The risks of introducing network fees are many but ultimately the biggest threats would be to consumer rights, costs, and freedom of choice,” they war …
