The ITU-EKIP Regulatory Forum for Europe on “Universal Connectivity for a Post-Pandemic Digital Europe" was held from 27th to 28th September 2021 in an online format. The Forum was organized by the Office for Europe of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Agency for Electronic Communications and Postal Services of Montenegro (EKIP), with an aim to provide a platform for discussion on ICT sector regulatory issues and challenges in the context of post-pandemic and recovery scenarios.

The event was held within the framework of the ITU Regional Initiative for Europe on Broadband infrastructure, broadcasting and spectrum management, providing a unique opportunity for dialogue between stakeholders on strategies and policies directed toward broadband development in the region, with particular attention to fixed and mobile electronic communications markets and the role of National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs).

The Regional Regulatory Forum for Europe has a years-long tradition, representing a reference point for regulatory issues involving all interested parties on the European level. It builds upon the results of the ITU Global Symposium for Regulators and the 2021 Best Practice Guidelines and is committed to the implementation thereof regionally.

International conference „Regulation in the electronic communications sector“ is one of the leading NRA gatherings, where various aspects of electronic communications market regulations are discussed. The meeting in the form of a regional regulatory forum is traditionally held within the ITU Regional Initiative for Europe on Broadband infrastructure, broadcasting and spectrum management.

During the opening ceremony, the participants were addressed by the representatives of the ITU, European Commission and regional NRAs. In his introductory word, Dragoljub Stefanović, technical director of the Regulatory Agency for Electronic Communications and Postal Services, presented the most important RATEL’s activities since the pandemic, aimed at improving the digital connectivity in Serbia. By stressing the significance of the broadband infrastructure development, RATEL’s representative pointed out the results in the area of mapping of shared infrastructure using GIS system, as well as regulatory activities regarding the creation of conditions for the implementation of 5G technology in the Republic of Serbia. He also highlighted RATEL’s initiatives within the National CERT, aimed at informing the public, strengthening the capacities and raising awareness on the occurrence of possible cybersecurity risks.