Magda Cocco and Rui Gordete Almeida are the authors of the article ‘Digital Networks Act: one market, one regulation’, published by the International Bar Association.

In this article, the VdA lawyers analyse the European Commission’s proposal for the Digital Networks Act (DNA), presented in January 2026, which represents a decisive step in reshaping the legal framework for electronic communications in the European Union.

More than a mere consolidation of the current regime, the proposal introduces significant structural changes, notably the transition from a directive-based model to a directly applicable regulation, the strengthening of powers at European level, and the creation of mechanisms such as a 'single passport' for operators.

Throughout the article, the authors explore the key implications of this initiative, including the challenges associated with regulatory harmonisation, spectrum management, and the balance between centralisation at EU level and the autonomy of Member States.

'Rather than merely consolidating existing instruments, the proposal brings a new European-centred governance model.'