Broadcasting services and the liberalization of radio spectrum

Abstract

Broadcasting services have a structural dependence on the radio spectrum. The fact that this network is being privatised and liberalised may put in danger the existence of public sector broadcasting in this area. The new European regulatory framework for electronic communications and its transposition to Spanish Law have opened the door to the creation of spectrum markets and the establishment of market mechanisms as basic spectrum management techniques. This new regulatory paradigm has been introduced in a band attributed to broadcasting, the digital dividend, and mobile operators have taken advantage of it. This experience illustrates a trend that will lead to a gradual expulsion of public sector broadcasting from the radio spectrum. Such broadcasters will be forced to look for alternative platforms to carry out their public service mission.

Keywords: broadcasting, digital dividend, radio spectrum, privatisation, liberalisation, spectrum markets.