The role of the State in the Belgian telecommunications sector in the nineteenth century

Summary: State intervention in the Belgian telecommunication sector was the product of political, economic, social and geopolitical factors. During the three successive technological waves in this sector in the nineteenth century (the development of optical telegraphs* electric telegraphs and the telephone), the State's role evolved from mere 'policing', to economic participation and finally to a monopoly and the provision of a 'public service'. At the time this necessitated the use of 'cross subsidies' to ensure geographical development of the network and to reduce tariffs. The 'public service' was at first intended mainly for commerce and industry.