open spectrum

Written submission by Zenzeleni Networks, the Association for Progressive Communications, the University of the Western Cape, the University of Cape Town and Rhizomatica on the policy directions to the authority on licensing of unassigned high-demand spectrum.

Like other common goods, spectrum has historically been subject to gradual curtailment and private ownership. There are opportunities to change this scenario, which will depend on a new understanding of what the spectrum is and how to use it, as well as participation by civil society in debates. 

The Nupef Institute supports the implementation of community networks in areas lacking internet access, both through the deployment of networks in regions that are not accessible and through the circulation of information on the dynamic use of spectrum.

Based on a review of the basic concepts regarding electromagnetic spectrum and its management, this article explores a few differences between the notions of “free spectrum” and “open spectrum” in order to understand some challenges related to freedom of expression in the 21st century.

Welcome to the fifth monthly round-up of developments impacting your local access networks.

On Friday, March 23rd 2018, the South African communications regulator (ICASA) formally gazetted Regulations on the Use of Television White Spaces spectrum. This means that, subject to type approval and to authorisation through a geo-location database, TV White Space wireless communication equipment can legally be used in South Africa. This is a pretty big deal. 

In this joint submission, APC and the Internet Society propose community network operators as a viable solution to reduce the disparity in broadband internet access affecting Canadians, predominantly from rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.

In a new position paper from APC, we unpack the underlying causes of limited connectivity, analyse the shortcomings of current initiatives, and propose a set of policy responses to address the access gap.