End(s) of the Harmonization in the European Union: Centrifuging or Engineering?

Abstract

The European Union (EU) harmonization has an evolving and dynamic nature. Different theoretical approaches (e.g., regulatory competition, coevolution, reflexive harmonization) are often echoed to delve into the EU harmonization. This article, going through these theories, endeavors to explain the harmonization discourse in the EU with a focus on the electronic communications sector. To understand the trajectory of the EU harmonization in this sector, two areas (“network access” and “spectrum regulation”) are selected as the subject-matter of the research. In conclusion, the legislative steps taken so far are found to restrict regulatory experimentation and innovation that this sector needs in the face of increasing challenges.