New Regulatory Framework of Convergence of Broadcasting and Telecommunications in the Digital Convergence Era

초록

This research deals with new regulatory framework for convergence. Digitalization and convergence is changing the nature of broadcasting and telecommunications sectors in many ways. Convergent services have been introduced and telecommunication service providers and broadcasting companies alike are responding more seriously to this trend. Bundling services that incorporate TV, broadband Internet and telephone have emerged through the integration of networks. And the functions of cable TV and telecommunication network have grown more similar so as to put them in direct competition with one another. A consequence of the move to digital networks is that the operator of the carriage network may be delivering the services of a number of broadcasters. Regulators may not always be able to assume that the operator of the delivery platform is in a position to influence the type of content provided by individual broadcasters. This contrasts with the situation in analogue terrestrial broadcasting where the transmission network was often owned by the broadcaster or used exclusively by the broadcaster. In a digital and convergent environment, the regulation of content may need to be directed specifically at the content provider. This research argued that convergence requires a shift from a vertical to a horizontal regulatory structure. Instead of regulating the telecommunications industry or the broadcasting industry, a horizontal approach would be structured around the regulation of similar activities. It is also argued that separate regulatory frameworks could be developed for network and content.