Ensuring High-Speed and Quality Internet in Europe Beyond 2020

On 19 January 2016 the European Commission is hosting a one-day event: Bridging the digital divide: ensuring high-speed and quality internet in Europe beyond 2020. 

The economic benefits of broadband are now undeniable, with the rise of new online services such as the cloud and connected TV which require high speed coverage, and figures showing that a 10% increase in broadband penetration can result in a 1-1.5 % increase in the GDP annually and 1.5% labour productivity gains. The European Union has set ambitious objectives to ensure Europe can keep pace with other world leaders and realise the many benefits of high-speed and quality internet. 

Participants at the event will assess achievements and persisting challenges of the EU's Digital Agenda targets. They will evaluate the need for investments in broadband services to fully exploit the potential of the European digital economy. Also on the agenda is analysing existing solutions to tackle the digital divide in rural and disadvantaged areas, as well as ensuring maximum protection of the net neutrality principle and the removal of all free access barriers to online content.