Note: This section is based in large part on a discussion paper entitled Mobile Network Sharing by Camila Borba Lefèvre. This discussion paper was prepared for the 8th ITU Global Symposium for Regulators [1] in 2008.
This section explores mobile network sharing. Mobile network sharing offers a number of potential benefits to both operators and users. It has particular relevance in developing countries where mobile operators have become or are fast becoming the dominant infrastructure operators. Mobile networks also have a key role to play in rolling out services to remote and hard-to-service regions.
Mobile network sharing is also relevant in developed countries. Many initiatives aimed at providing free Internet access in urban areas use mobile technology. Mobile network sharing also plays a key role in the structuring of triple-play and quadruple-play service packages.
This section outlines the policy benefits associated with mobile network sharing, the various forms of passive and active sharing, and regulatory and policy issues associated with mobile network sharing.
Endnotes
[1] For more information on the GSR, see: www.itu.int/ITU-D/treg/Events/Seminars/GSR/index.html. For a direct link to the GSR 08 discussion papers, see: www.itu.int/ITU-D/treg/Events/Seminars/GSR/GSR08/papers.html.