Regulation will play a key role in shaping Europe’s transition to full fibre – was the key message of the BEREC Chair Marko Mismas (AKOS, Slovenia) at the OECD Working Party on Connectivity Services and Infrastructures panel discussion, The Proposed Digital Networks Act in Europe, taking place on 6 May 2026 in Paris, France.

Investment and predictability

During his intervention, the BEREC Chair Marko Mismas stressed that Europe needs massive and sustained investment in fibre networks. He noted that this depends on predictability, scale, and fair risk-sharing. While the current framework has delivered progress, he pointed out that it has also led to fragmentation and uneven conditions across Member States. Whilst there is a need for greater EU harmonisation and simplification, competition must continue to play a central role in driving efficient investment.

Managing the transition

Marko Mismas underscored that the transition to a post-copper era requires a coordinated, transparent approach that safeguards competition and end users. He noted that even in a full fibre environment, targeted access regulation remains necessary, as local market power can persist.

The BEREC Chair also noted emerging models, including co-investment, wholesale-only operators, and infrastructure sharing. He stressed the need for technological neutrality, proportionate measures, and consistency across Europe, with effective implementation key to avoiding fragmentation. Finally, he underlined that while EU coherence is needed, national regulators remain essential for expertise and enforcement.