Remarks of FCC Commissioner Pai at the International Institute of Communications Forum

This week is an opportune time to focus on the critical role that private enterprise has played when it comes to broadband infrastructure and the Internet. I want to mention just a few lessons that I've drawn from the American experience. First and foremost in my view, the government's top priority should be removing regulatory barriers to private-sector investment and competition. I would be remiss if I didn't mention recent developments that have added an unfortunate chapter to this American success story.

First, there's been a dramatic change in policy over the last few months in the United States with respect to Internet regulation. I'm speaking of course about the Federal Communications Commission's recent net neutrality decision. Second, there are increasing calls in the United States to a slow the transition from an analog world to a digital one based on the Internet Protocol--something we call the IP Transition. I am optimistic that the United States will return to the successful, light-touch approach we have taken to the Internet. The private sector remains the key to expanding digital opportunities not only in American but throughout the world. Government's foremost responsibility is not to stand in the way.


Remarks of FCC Commissioner Pai at the International Institute of Communications Forum