Europe - Commission addresses the need for broadband for all and achievement of broadband targets

[ec] Commissioner Kroes "Of course, I don't need to convince you of the potential benefits of the internet. That is indeed why you have joined the Nordic Broadband Forum! But I would like to emphasise that the Commission is 100% serious about reaching the basic goal of ‘broadband for all’ by the end of 2013. After that we will, of course, move on to meet the other broadband targets set in the Digital Agenda."

"There are many risks of division in European society in coming years. These could come from dealing with the costs of ageing; from the effects of climate change; from lifestyle differences between rural areas and cities; from different peoples failing to realise what they have in common. We cannot afford to add the ‘digital divide’ to this list of risks."

"On the contrary, we should use the internet to reduce the other risks. In fact, I think that the roll-out of broadband will stimulate a virtuous cycle of activity that greatly benefits European society. It will radically change the way in which we communicate and access media content, but will also revolutionise how we see and use services such as eHealth and eLearning."

"People will be able to use a much wider range of tools to connect with each other – enabling them to choose how to get their message across most effectively, both in their business and their personal lives."

"On the social side, these networks can be the key to vibrant remote communities. Think of how they connect young people and keep them out of trouble. Think of how economies of scale can keep local government structures viable and in touch with local needs. And think of the importance of eHealth solutions for small communities in remote areas."

"It is therefore clear in my mind that broadband for all will provide a fundamental contribution to building strong and more prosperous communities."

"But this virtuous circle will not happen by accident. It will take hard work and major investments. If we can work together on this – if we can work together to deliver broadband for all, and develop new, higher-performance networks, we will leave Europe a much better place than when we first got involved in this industry."

"I am sure that you know our targets already! But it does not hurt to repeat those ambitious goals:

* By 2013, basic broadband coverage for all EU citizens, a target that has been reaffirmed by the European Council
* And by 2020, fast broadband coverage at 30 Megabits per second available to all EU citizens, with at least half European households subscribing to broadband access at 100 Megabits per second.

Neelie Kroes Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for Digital Agenda Address at Nordic Broadband Forum Copenhagen, 15 September 2010