Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

This shift to IP networks enables a revolutionary set of converged voice, data and video applications, bringing better features at lower prices for users, better applications for business, and benefits for the information society as a whole. Moreover, VoIP can help governments achieve their goal of economic and social development by expanding economic activity and bringing the benefits of ICT to their citizens.

VoIP can also serve as a catalyst for broadband deployment.

ICC believes that VoIP has the potential to bring unprecedented communications benefits to business users and consumers in both developed and developing countries by increasing competition and expanding ICT offerings. To ensure that VoIP can reach its full potential and is not stifled by unnecessary or poorly tailored regulation,ICC recommends that governments:

• recognize the distinct potential of VoIP technology and allow all interested service providers to provide IP-enabled services;
• adopt a light handed approach with reliance on general competition law wherever possible and limited application of ex ante regulation as set forth above; and
• work with industry to ensure that adequate attention to the specific attributes of VoIP is given when addressing public interest considerations including numbering, emergency services, universal service and cooperation with law enforcement.