Introduction

Telecommunications, internet and media companies have in recent years been caught up in a process of almost continuous transformation, as the effects of digitalisation, new technologies, increasing user power, and the economic and financial crisis in Europe and the United States permeate the communications sector. Convergence, is now really making itself felt, through its debut in the mobility market, the living room and in infrastructure, ushering in a new mix of competitive challenges and adding a new dimension of fluidity and unpredictability to business models and calculations at all levels of the value chain. Government intervention will also make its mark as many countries adopt plans to extend and enhance broadband deployment in order to stimulate economic recovery and growth, and to provide other societal benefits.

At the IIC’s Annual Conference senior representatives from industry, government, regulatory authorities and other experts from around the world will share their knowledge and insights about this wave of developments and explore the public policy and regulatory issues raised. Among the issues for debate are:

• What impact is the economic and financial crisis having on the communications sector? Is the sector proving to be a key component of a solution as many governments suggested it would?
• Who and what is driving change in the internet ecosystem and what are the new competitive dynamics and pressure points? Does the internet require a fundamentally new regulatory approach?
• How and why are governments intervening in the broadband market? How will the results be evaluated and what are the regulatory implications?
• How can industry, government and regulators assist users to safeguard their privacy and personal data in a way that does not obstruct the development of new businesses and business models?
• As the mobility content market begins to take off what will drive, limit and shape it? How will it affect the broadcasting industry? What particular regulatory issues are raised?