Spectrum: EBU takes part in conference preparatory meeting for WRC-15

The next ten days will be an intense period.  The aim of the conference is to prepare a consolidated report on the ITU-R preparatory studies and possible solutions to the WRC agenda items. Key topics will include technical, operational and procedural issues regarding the global allocation of spectrum.

The process is at a crucial point, according to EBU Technology and Innovation Director Simon Fell: “This is a significant stage in the continuing process for spectrum allocation, as the CPM offers a concrete opportunity for input.  It is at this meeting that preliminary positions in the debate will be consolidated ahead of the WRC in November.”

“Our team is at the event to make known and represent the interests of our members. It is vital that spectrum policymakers consider the current public trends for consuming content, to verify that the spectrum bandwidth already assigned for mobile use is being fully utilised and, most importantly, to protect and secure the UHF band (470-694 MHz) and retain the 700 MHz band as it is until a full cost and impact assessment is carried out.”

"Spectrum is often considered to be a public good when it comes to its use by free-to-air broadcasters. The vital role played by public service broadcasters in emergencies was recently brought up at the Third UN World Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction. Retaining and protecting the bandwidth already allocated to these services is undeniably in the public interest and is the EBU’s primary aim.”