Telecommunications reforms: options, models, and global challenges

Telecommunications reforms are gaining momentum around the globe, spurred by technological change as well as a growing urgency to attract financial investment in a sector increasingly recognized as critical for economic growth. Particularly in developing countries, investment in the telecommunications infrastructure is considered a top priority to combat low telephone densities and poor service quality and to take advantage of modern technologies. In developed countries, pressures for reform continue to mount as a consequence of innovation and increased international trade in telecommunications services and equipment. Throughout the world, the continued internationalization of telecom providers and services will create new exigencies for all countries to make sometimes dramatic changes so as to position themselves to participate in a new global order.<>