TRA Declares Position on Internet Rights

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportations and Telecommunication and in accordance to the government policy stated in the fourth national telecom plan has published a position paper aimed at further safeguarding the interests of consumers to ensure unfettered access to lawful content and applications on the internet. This position is aimed to support the growth in the telecom sector and position Bahrain as a regional ICT hub.

“We have published a position paper which reflects the government’s policy towards fast adaptation of new technologies to encourage investment in the telecoms sector. The adoption of the most current internet solutions are a matter of great significance, as they accelerate the pace of proliferation in broadband services. Any expansion of this kind in broadband has a direct impact on our GDP, in fact according to latest studies, an increase in 10% of broadband subscriptions translate to a 1% increase in GDP.” Says Mr. Mohamed Bubashait, TRA’s General Director. 

He went on to state that “As the position paper demonstrates, consumer needs and consumer choice towards internet services are the basis of our recommendations without consumers being subject to discrimination. This will enable consumers to make an informed decision when choosing between the various service providers in particular insofar as this relates to a better consumer experience by having guaranteed access to their daily applications such as social media applications, instant messaging application, and many more”

The Position Paper sets out TRA’s view in relation to the fast-growing Internet and online applications, particularly giving regard to the relationship between Over-The-Top Applications (OTT) and Licensed Operators in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It provides an overview of the trends in relation to the main types of OTT players, the main policy issues associated with such trends and the potential need for regulatory intervention, as well as the practices adopted in different jurisdictions around the world, and the approach that, at this moment in time, the TRA considers most appropriate for the industry. For more information regarding the “Internet and Online Applications” Position Paper visit TRA’s Website at www.tra.org.bh.