St Helena is advancing its digital modernization efforts with the approval of a new Communications Bill by the Legislative Council on June 18, 2025. The Bill will replace the outdated Telecommunications Ordinance of 1989 and will become an Ordinance once the Governor gives assent.
The new Communications Ordinance aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory code for managing St Helena’s electromagnetic spectrum, as well as broader provisions for broadcasting and communications. It emphasizes consumer protection and safeguarding national interests.
This legislative development follows years of groundwork laid by the Communications Networks and Services Policy, first approved in 2020 and consistently endorsed by the Executive Council. The policy set the stage for drafting a modern law that addresses today’s digital complexities.
Key features of the new ordinance include establishing a Communications Regulator to oversee compliance, ensuring fair pricing, quality service, and innovation. A clear licensing framework will provide certainty for investors and consumers while protecting vital infrastructure and supporting network upgrades across St Helena.
A Universal Service Obligation mandates affordable communication services for all residents, regardless of location. Enhanced consumer safeguards will require service providers to implement complaint-handling procedures, protect user privacy, and meet quality standards with regular performance reporting.
The ordinance also introduces price controls to ensure fair pricing while allowing providers reasonable returns. Robust exit provisions are included to guarantee continuous service if a provider departs. Surveillance powers are balanced to safeguard privacy while providing necessary investigatory capabilities.
Minister for Treasury & Economic Development Portfolio Mark Brooks stated: “This Government is committed to ending digital poverty and exclusion that St Helena has faced due to our remote location… With the passage of the Communications Bill, we are demonstrating to the world that St Helena is open for business with a modern, forward-thinking regulatory framework.”
A copy of the Ordinance can be found on St Helena Government’s website.