OSNews

Expect the European Commission to dissuade other countries from following. When Neelie Kroes, Commissioner for Digital Agenda says:

April 2010:

"I will not support any outcome that puts into danger freedom of expression. In a complex system like the internet, it must be crystal clear what the practices of operators controlling the network mean for all users, including consumers."

"National Regulatory Authorities are required to promote 'the ability of end-users to access and distribute information or run applications and services of their choice'. This sets a very important principle for net neutrality, as it recognises and safeguards the basic freedoms of internet users."

"Net neutrality is a subject that stirs emotions. Everyone has an opinion and, so far, this has not led to an agreement on what net neutrality actually means."

then, in October 2011:

"I regret very much that the Netherlands seems to be moving unilaterally on this issue. We must act on the basis of facts, not passion; acting quickly and without reflection can be counterproductive."

then in April 2012:

"I am committed to safeguarding net neutrality. Everyone should have the option of full access to a robust, best-efforts Internet. But, once again, openness here is a subtle term. For me it does not mean banning all targeted or limited offers: it means being transparent about them, and giving consumers a free and easy choice as to whether they want them; in the full confidence that full access is also easily available."

it's clear she's going to discourage other countries from making the same unconditional guarantee. She wants to redefine the notion of net neutrality so she can promote a watered-down version. The Netherlands has set a dangerous precedent by embracing the idea wholeheartedly.

Note to Neelie Kroes: openness is only a subtle term to those who support censorship.