The Future of the Internet: Debating Network Fees at Abrint Nordeste 2024
On December 5 and 6, 2024, Fortaleza became the center of a pivotal discussion on the future of the Internet in Brazil. The third edition of Abrint Nordeste brought together experts, Internet service providers, and telecommunications industry representatives to debate key issues shaping connectivity and digital innovation in the years ahead.
The panel “Network Fees: Risk or Necessity for Connectivity?” featured insights from Cristina Alves (ITS Rio), Everson Mai (Abrint), Alessandro Molon (Alliance for an Open Internet), and Fernando Soares (Conexis), with moderation by Henrique Julião (Teletime).
Cristina Alves raised concerns about the impact of network fees on human dignity and fundamental rights of Brazilian internet users, arguing that imposing additional charges based on data traffic volume could directly undermine citizens’ ability to exercise such rights.
Everson Mai provided a technical analysis, outlining the challenges of implementing such measures and their negative effects on digital infrastructure. Meanwhile, Fernando Soares of Conexis acknowledged the potential harm to consumers—such as the likelihood of costs being passed on through digital platforms—but maintained that large telecom operators remain committed to advancing the proposal.
A key moment of the event was Alessandro Molon’s discussion of the recent approval of the report on Bill No. 469/2024, which seeks to prohibit additional charges for network infrastructure use. This legislative milestone is seen as a major victory for net neutrality advocates and all who support a free and open Internet in Brazil.
A key moment of the event was Alessandro Molon’s discussion of the recent approval of the report on Bill No. 469/2024, which seeks to prohibit additional charges for network infrastructure use. This legislative milestone is seen as a major victory for net neutrality advocates and all who support a free and open Internet in Brazil.
Abrint Nordeste highlighted the complexities of Internet policy and the need for informed debate to shape an inclusive and equitable digital future. The wide range of perspectives on financing Internet infrastructure—without harming consumers or small providers—demonstrates that the road ahead remains long and requires ongoing dialogue among all stakeholders.