Tomorrow, May 5, coincides with the taking of a very important vote in the European Parliament - that on the highly controversial telecom reform package.
The package, first presented by Commissioner Viviane Reding on November 13, 2007, is meant to introduce a higher degree of harmonisation within the telecommunication sectors of the EU 27 countries by reforming the previous 2002 regulations.
The package seeks to strike a delicate balance between completing the internal market within the EU for telecommunications sectors and not fettering in any way users' rights when accessing the internet.
One of the most resented propositions within the package makes it possible for internet service providers to decide which web pages users are allowed to visit, potentially limiting access to websites critical of the ISP or the government. ISPs would then sell internet packages, similar to TV packages, allowing access to a limited number of websites, effectively limiting freedom of speech on the internet.
The Industry, Research and Energy Committee of the European Parliament voted on the evening of April 21, 2009 on reintroducing amendment 138, renumbered as amendment 46, which states that "no restriction may be imposed on the fundamental rights and freedoms of end users, without a prior ruling by the judicial authorities, notably in accordance with Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union on freedom of expression and information, save when public security is threatened in which case the ruling may be subsequent". This small victory is still eclipsed by some fettering propositions in the proposed package.
The European Digital Rights was founded in June 2002 and currently comprises 29 privacy and civil rights organisations.
Such a network recently sent an open letter to all MEPs asking them to give due consideration to internet users' rights by reinstating a number of safeguards and regulatory controls which have been axed from the revamped package - these include those which would protect against discriminatory practices, disproportionate sanctions or unfair restriction of service (Framework Directive Article 8 (4ga) and Universal Services Directive Article 32a) or against discriminatory, restrictive or unfair practices (Universal Services Directive, Article 22(3)).
In addition, the same open letter calls for the removal of a number of telecom package amendments on filtering, cooperation and traffic processing which would, in fact, have the effect of further distorting the internal market and most of all, compromising user's rights (which should be taken into account in defining and implementing any community policies and activities).
Internet plays a major economic and social role, and contributes to European welfare. It is a space for cultural exchange, technological innovation and economic activity.
It empowers all citizens alike, including innovators, entrepreneurs and consumers. It enables social interaction and democratic participation.
It has become an important foundation for culture, scientific research, innovation, and education.
Hence, I believe in the sacrosanct right to unhindered internet access, one of the last unfettered liberties enjoyed universally by the common citizen, and have signed the EDRI letter.
I encourage my fellow MEP candidates to do the same. The ERDI letter can be viewed on www.edri.org/edrigram/campaigns/open-letter-telecom-package.