We are pleased to announce the release of our latest report assessing the impact of the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC) on deaf people across the European Union and the European Economic Area.
While the EECC, adopted by the European Commission in 2018, establishes key legal obligations for electronic communications networks and services, it currently lacks specific provisions that address the unique communication needs of deaf people, especially regarding access to voice communications and services in national sign languages.
Our report evaluates the EECC’s effectiveness in ensuring universal service, accessibility, affordability, and quality of service for approximately one million deaf people in the EU and EEA. It identifies critical gaps in the current framework and offers comprehensive recommendations aimed at strengthening the EECC’s obligations. These recommendations seek to guarantee deaf people’s equal access to telecommunications and internet-based services, including essential video relay services and emergency communications in national sign languages.
As the EECC is due for review by December 2025, EUD calls on the European Commission and Member States to prioritise these issues to foster digital inclusion and uphold the rights of deaf people throughout Europe.
Executive Summary
EUD’s Report on the implementation of the European Electronic Communications Code
