German Parliament Submits Bill to Repeal Intersputnik Act
Berlin, October 25, 2024 – The German Bundestag has introduced a bill to repeal the Intersputnik Act, which has been in effect since 1971. The law established the legal basis for Germany’s participation in the Intersputnik international satellite communications organization.
The German government argues that the law has become obsolete due to significant changes in the telecommunications landscape since its enactment. The Intersputnik organization, which once played a major role in satellite communications in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, has declined in importance in recent years.
In its place, the federal government has pointed to the emergence of private sector satellite communication providers, which offer a wide range of services without the need for government involvement. The government believes that repealing the Intersputnik Act will reduce administrative burdens and create a level playing field for all satellite operators.
The bill would also repeal provisions in the law that require the German government to hold shares in Intersputnik and to provide financial support to the organization.
The bill has been referred to the Bundestag’s Committee on Economic Affairs and Energy for further deliberation. It is expected to be debated and voted on in the coming months.
If passed, the repeal of the Intersputnik Act would mark a symbolic end to Germany’s involvement in the organization. It would also align German law with the European Union’s approach to satellite communications, which is based on market competition and private sector investment.
Background
The Intersputnik organization was established in 1971 as a joint venture between the Soviet Union and several other Eastern European countries. It provided satellite communications services to member states, including telephone, telegraph, and data transmission.
Germany joined Intersputnik in 1972 and became a major contributor to the organization. However, with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the emergence of private sector satellite operators, Intersputnik’s importance gradually declined.
In recent years, Intersputnik has shifted its focus to providing satellite services to developing countries and rural areas. However, it has faced competition from other satellite operators and has struggled to maintain its market share.
Implications
The repeal of the Intersputnik Act would have no practical impact on Germany’s satellite communications sector. Private sector operators would continue to provide the full range of satellite services required by businesses and consumers.
However, the repeal would send a signal that the German government is committed to a competitive and market-based approach to satellite communications. It would also remove a potential barrier to investment and innovation in the sector.
Entwurf zur Aufhebung des Intersputnik-Gesetzes vorgelegt
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