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Poland in the EU

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Video conference of telecommunications ministers

05.05.2020

At their informal videoconference, EU telecommunications ministers discussed the use of contact tracing and warning apps in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. They also exchanged views on the role of the digital sector in the post-COVID-19 recovery, including measures to incentivise investment in the deployment of new very-high-capacity digital infrastructures.

MWB

Vice-President of the European Commission M. Vestager, in her opening remarks, has urged EU telecoms ministers to limit as much as possible any delays to their 5G spectrum assignments, amid the current challenges to the industry brought on by the coronavirus crisis. She also appealed for an active fight against false theories linking the spread of the COVID-19 virus with the implementation of the 5G network.

During the discussion, a declaration was also made on behalf of the European Commission about launching a review of the bloc's state aid policy with regards to the public financing of broadband networks across EU member states.

As far as tracing and warning  applications are concerned, it has been aknowledged that they can potentially play a crucial role, especially in the context of restoring free movement of people. Solutions implemented in this regard by EU Member States must comply with the basic principles of personal data protection (GDPR), be voluntary and transparent, managed by health authorities, be temporary and secure.

Ministers agreed that contact tracing and warning apps built in developed individually in the Member States should be interoperable and comply with the coordinated European approach with regard to applications used in the fight against the pandemic. EU Member States agreed that social trust is a key element for the successful implementation of these applications.

Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs Ms. Wanda Buk, in her intervention on behalf of Poland, pointed out in particular issues related to the 5G network, including the need to raise awerness of the public about this technology. The Minister shared details of the recent change in Poland of the electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by radio communication installations and their adaptation to levels resulting from the recommendations of the Council of Europe and the European Commission. The Polish app solutions already introduced are in accordance with the guidelines of the European Council for the Protection of Personal Data, the European Commission and the toolbox developed within the eHealth network.

Ministers also emphasized the aspect of digital exclusion, which became even more apparent and severe in the time of the COVID-19 crisis. The need to invest in IT equipment for students and to develop their digital competences, together with investments in network infrastructure in rural areas are among the EU's ministers priorities.

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