This year, 2019, the National Communications Authority (ANACOM) is celebrating its 30th anniversary.
Starting life as the Portuguese Communications Institute (ICP), it came into operation on 6 November 1989, with responsibilities including the management of the radio spectrum, supporting the government in the coordination and planning of communications for public use, representing the sector in international bodies and international cooperation. In 2002, following statutory amendment, it released itself from its previous legal status as a public institute and came to be called ICP - National Communications Authority (ICP-ANACOM), a legal entity of public right with administrative and financial authority and individual capital.
As a result of the technological development of services and the market, ANACOM has, since 2015, adopted the role of national regulatory authority for the communications sector in Portugal. Its mission covers the regulation of the sector, including electronic and postal communications, also ensuring the support of the government in this area.
ANACOM counts among its main responsibilities the promotion of competition in the provision of networks and services, the e cient management of the radio spectrum and of numbering, the development of markets and electronic and postal communication networks and the protection of citizens’ rights and interests. It must ensure access to the universal service of electronic and postal communications and to emergency services. It looks after the integrity and security of the networks and services. It also guarantees representation in the relevant international bodies.
ANACOM has powers of regulation, supervision, inspection and sanctioning, essential for the full exercise of its responsibilities as a regulatory authority.
ANACOM’s actions are guided by principles of impartiality, rigour and transparency. The strategic objectives that frame its activity aim to reinforce e cacy in achieving the mission set for it, ensuring sustained development of the communications sector, seeking to meet the needs of all users and defend citizens’ rights.
It is visible in society and in the economy, available for the clari cation of doubts, to safeguard rights and guarantee freedoms.
João Cadete de Matos
Chairman of ANACOM’s Board of Directors
