Study on the definition of a code of conduct for service providers
The European Commission, DG XIII, has published an open call for tender for a study on the definition of a code of conduct for service providers. The Mobile Green Paper (COM(94) 145 of 27 April 1994) first introduced the concept of service provision by service providers. It attaches an important role to service providers to ensure a dynamic, flexible and innovative industry sector as well as to open the way to the development of the personal communications environment. The consultation that followed on the publication of the Mobile Green Paper has been completed. With regard to service provision, the role of service providers in developing personal communication services has been broadly endorsed. This included support for the definition of a harmonized set of minimum requirements for a code of conduct for service providers, setting out the rights and duties of the service providers with regard to both the operator and the end user. The communication on the consultation on the Mobile Green Paper defines the development of a code of conduct for service providers as one of the main priorities for action. In this context, the European Commission is interested in undertaking a study that prepares the framework for a code of conduct for service providers, involving all interested parties in the sector. The framework code of conduct should address at least the following areas: A: Definitions and interpretation; B: Application and execution; C: Administration and enforcement; D: Complaints resolution; E: Minimum code requirements; F: Miscellaneous issues (code mark, termination). The code should be: - Clear and practical to promote the awareness of and adherence to the code; - Developed with the participation of all interested parties; - Easily convertible for general application in the entire telecommunications sector; - Permit a voluntary as well as mandatory application. The terms of reference for the study may be obtained from: European Commission Directorate-General for Telecommunications, Information Market and Exploitation of Research DG XIII/A Mr. P. Picard 200 rue de la Loi (BU 9 5/176) B-1049 Brussels Tel. +32-2-2968612; Fax +32-2-2968393 Tenders should be submitted to the same address.