Telecommunications law, often referred to as electronic communications law, regulates the operation of communication networks and services. It includes market access rules, ensuring competition, consumer protection, and network interconnection.

Telecommunications regulation usually includes:

• Authorization/licensing (for network/service operation);

• Regulatory mechanisms for competition and tariffs;

• Management of the radio frequency spectrum and numbering;

• Quality standards and elements of universal service;

• Consumer protection, confidentiality, security;

• Rules for dispute resolution and enforcement.

The telecommunications sector is regulated by an independent national regulatory body, which carries out the functions of market access, spectrum allocation, consumer rights protection, and competition support. For example, in Georgia, the national regulatory body is represented by the National Communications Commission.

Interconnection is a legal and technical framework that ensures the connection of one operator’s network to another operator’s network, enabling users located on different networks to communicate with each other. It is regulated on the basis of the principles of fair access, non-discrimination, and technical compatibility.