Public Consultation Opened on the European Digital Networks Act (DNA) Proposal

On May 20, 2026, the Ministry for Digital Transformation and Public Function announced the opening of a public consultation regarding the European Commission's proposal for the Digital Networks Act (DNA). This legislative initiative, presented in January 2026, aims to establish a simplified and harmonized legal framework for digital networks and connectivity infrastructure across the European Union.

The DNA proposal is a response to strategic analyses highlighting the critical role of advanced digital infrastructure in supporting the EU's economic competitiveness, strategic autonomy, security, and resilience. Key reports such as the Letta, Draghi, and Niinistö reports, as well as the 'Compass for Competitiveness' communication, have underscored these priorities.

The proposed measures include reinforcing the single market for connectivity, reducing regulatory and administrative burdens, increasing flexibility in business relations while maintaining high consumer protection, fostering innovation, and strengthening resilience against natural disasters and foreign interference. The Act also introduces EU-wide preparedness plans and security-focused criteria for pan-European satellite communications.

The public consultation is open to citizens, organizations, and associations, with contributions accepted until June 12, 2026. The process is designed to gather feedback and suggestions to refine the proposal before its final legislative processing, ensuring broad stakeholder participation.

This initiative represents a significant step toward a more efficient and future-ready regulatory environment for digital networks in the EU, with potential impacts on operators, manufacturers, service providers, and end-users.

This is a Medium Impact regulatory development as it is a public consultation on a major legislative proposal with potentially significant future effects, but no immediate mandatory changes.

Key reasons for Medium Impact:

• The proposal could reshape the regulatory landscape for digital networks and connectivity infrastructure across the EU.
• It addresses strategic priorities such as market harmonization, administrative simplification, innovation, and resilience.
• Stakeholders are invited to participate, indicating the potential for future obligations or opportunities.

Who is affected?

Telecommunications operators, equipment manufacturers, digital service providers, public authorities, and end-users.

Conclusion:

Stakeholders should monitor the consultation and consider submitting feedback, as the final regulation may introduce important changes to compliance, market access, and operational requirements.