Of the major industries formerly characterized by a high degree of state monopoly control, telecommunications is proving to be increasingly susceptible to market failure. The fundamental causes of this difficulty, according to the author of this far-reaching analysis, are twofold: abusive behaviour of incumbents aimed at foreclosing competitors, and the regulatory challenges posed by the technological convergence of the telecommunications, media, and IT sectors. The answers, Dr. Nikolinakos shows with extraordinary rigour and detail, lie in the enforcement of specially-crafted competition rules and proportionate, targeted sectoral regulation.This book presents the most thoroughgoing model yet offered to ensure the emergence of a genuinely competitive electronic communications industry in Europe.