This project focused on preparing Belgian stakeholders for the arrival of the European Gigabit Infrastructure Act. It involved engaging with the Belgian Representation and BIPT during the negotiation phase, mapping all stakeholders, communicating the regulation’s implications, and identifying the actions needed for compliance.

Project description

The Gigabit Infrastructure Act is a new European regulation shaping the future of telecom networks. The project’s objective was to ensure timely preparedness of both public and private actors in Wallonia for its adoption and implementation.

Work began with active participation in the negotiation phases, liaising with the Belgian Representation and BIPT to track developments. A comprehensive stakeholder mapping was carried out to identify all parties interested, involved, or impacted, from political decision-makers and telecom operators to federal and European-level institutions.

The project scope included targeted communication to raise awareness, explain requirements, and encourage early action. A vade-mecum was produced to provide a practical comparison between the regulation’s requirements and on-the-ground realities. The communication approach was tailored to each audience, ensuring relevance and clarity.

This project directly supported the strategic objectives of improving national readiness for EU digital infrastructure policy and ensuring a smooth, compliant transition once the regulation takes effect.

Project management excellence

As consultant, I managed the project for Agence du Numérique, coordinating activities with multiple institutional and industry stakeholders. The work was delivered using a structured approach informed by Prince2 principles, providing a clear framework while allowing flexibility to respond to political and budgetary constraints.

Team collaboration was maintained within a small, focused group of three, supported by broader cooperation with external experts. Stakeholder engagement was central to the project’s success. Meetings, workshops, and presentations ensured decision-makers and operators understood the implications of the regulation and their responsibilities.

The vade-mecum served as both a communication and management tool, distilling complex regulatory language into practical guidance tailored to specific audiences, from local authorities to telecom operators. This personalised approach facilitated constructive dialogue and increased engagement.

Project outcomes and impact

The project ensured that public and private actors in Wallonia were prepared ahead of the regulation’s implementation timeline. The vade-mecum and associated communication initiatives provided clear, actionable guidance, supporting smooth adoption and compliance.

The initiative strengthened stakeholder alignment across political, regulatory, and industry levels, improving readiness for the operational and strategic impacts of the Gigabit Infrastructure Act. Managing this project reinforced my experience in regulatory readiness, stakeholder management, and translating complex EU policy into practical actions.