The Council of the European Union has launched a consultation with the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on a proposed regulation that would establish a new authorisation procedure for mobile satellite services using the harmonised 2 GHz frequency band and repeal the existing Decision No 626/2008/EC. The consultation, published on 22 July 2026, gives the EESC until 14:00 on Thursday 23 July 2026 to submit comments via email to consultations@consilium.europa.eu. If no comments are received by the deadline, the decision to consult the EESC will be deemed adopted.
The proposal, referenced as 2026/0134 (COD) - COM (2026) 311 final - 9777/26, aims to update the regulatory framework for mobile satellite services in the 2 GHz band, which is currently governed by a 2008 decision. The Council is acting under Article 12(2)(c) of its Rules of Procedure, which allows for a simplified consultation procedure. The regulation would replace the existing authorisation regime with a streamlined process, potentially affecting satellite operators, national regulators, and consumers relying on mobile satellite communications.
Satellite service providers would face new procedural requirements, potentially reducing administrative burdens compared to the current regime. National regulatory authorities would need to align their authorisation processes with the new EU-wide rules. Consumers could benefit from improved service availability and interoperability across member states. The EESC's opinion, if provided, will inform the Council's final decision on the regulation.
After the EESC consultation, the proposal will proceed through the ordinary legislative procedure, requiring approval by the European Parliament and the Council. The European Parliament has not yet scheduled its first reading.