CAC Celebrates 25 Years with Focus on Internet Expansion and AI Advancements

Catalan Audiovisual Regulator Marks 25 Years, Calls for New Powers Amid AI Concerns

October 13, 2025

Barcelona, Spain – The Consell de l’Audiovisual de Catalunya (CAC), the Catalan audiovisual regulatory body, commemorated its 25th anniversary on Monday with a call for amplified authority to navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape. The plea comes as concerns mount over the spread of misinformation and the increasing influence of Artificial Intelligence.

A Quarter Century of Oversight

Established by Law 2/2000 on May 4th, the CAC was founded on a “brave, visionary” principle, according to its President, Xevi Xirgo. The regulator’s initial focus was on regulating traditional audiovisual content like television, CDs, and VHS tapes, a far cry from the current digital habitat.

The Shifting Details Landscape

xirgo highlighted the dramatic transformation in how peopel consume information.He noted a shift from actively seeking out news to having it delivered through algorithms and social media networks.This paradigm shift, he argued, necessitates a reevaluation of the CAC’s role and responsibilities.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

The President emphasized that the biggest challenge facing the CAC, and other regulators, is now Artificial intelligence. He underscored the need to regain a pioneering spirit, similar to that which guided the regulator’s creation 25 years ago. He stated that simply complaining about misinformation is insufficient, and urged the political class to demonstrate courage in providing the CAC with new powers to effectively address emerging threats.

Parliamentary Support for Modernization

Josep Rull, the President of the parliament of Catalonia, echoed these sentiments, stressing the CAC’s need to adapt and remain relevant. He pointed to the “high fragmentation of the public sphere” as a driver of polarization, where individuals are increasingly exposed only to information confirming their existing beliefs. this, he argued, reduces exposure to diverse perspectives and hinders constructive debate.

Rull affirmed the CAC’s critical role in safeguarding the integrity of information and,by extension,democracy. He stated that the regulator’s work is not merely an ancillary function, but an essential component of the Generalitat of Catalonia’s commitment to good governance.

Milestone	Date
CAC Established	May 4, 2000
25th Anniversary Commemoration	October 13, 2025

Did You Know? A 2023 report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism indicated that over 60% of people now primarily access news through social media platforms.

Pro Tip: Fact-checking websites like Snopes and PolitiFact can be valuable resources for verifying information encountered online.

What role should governments play in regulating online content, and how do we balance freedom of expression with the need to combat misinformation? Do you think Artificial Intelligence will ultimately be a force for good or harm when it comes to access to credible information?

the Evolving role of Media Regulators

The situation in Catalonia reflects a global trend: media regulators worldwide are grappling with the challenges of a rapidly changing digital landscape. The rise of social media, the proliferation of fake news, and the emergence of Artificial Intelligence have created a perfect storm of disinformation. Regulators are facing increased pressure to adapt their strategies and acquire new powers to protect the public interest.

Historically, media regulation focused on enforcing content standards for broadcast television and radio. Though, with the internet, the lines between content creators and distributors have blurred, making traditional regulatory frameworks less effective. Finding a balance between protecting freedom of expression and curbing the spread of harmful content is a complex undertaking,and requires international cooperation and innovative solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about the CAC and Media Regulation

• What is the primary function of the Consell de l’Audiovisual de Catalunya? The CAC regulates audiovisual content in Catalonia,aiming to ensure diversity,quality,and the protection of viewers’ rights.
• Why is the CAC seeking increased powers? The regulator wants to address the challenges posed by online misinformation and the influence of Artificial Intelligence.
• What are the key challenges facing media regulators today? The shift to digital media,the spread of fake news,and the emergence of AI are major challenges.
• How does the CAC contribute to democracy? By safeguarding the integrity of information, the CAC helps ensure informed public debate and participation in democratic processes.
• What is the role of the Parliament of Catalonia in relation to the CAC? The Parliament supports the CAC’s modernization and recognizes its vital role in protecting information integrity.

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What specific initiatives is CAC undertaking to address the affordability of internet access for low-income households?

A Quarter Century of Connectivity: Reflecting on CAC’s Journey

For 25 years, the Caribbean Association of Communications (CAC) has been a pivotal force in shaping the telecommunications landscape across the Caribbean region. Founded with a mission to foster collaboration and innovation, CAC is now charting a course for the future, heavily invested in internet expansion and the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This commitment isn’t just about keeping pace with global trends; it’s about unlocking new opportunities for economic growth,social advancement,and regional resilience.

Expanding Internet Access: Bridging the Digital Divide

The core of CAC’s future strategy revolves around considerably expanding broadband access throughout the Caribbean.Recognizing the critical role of internet connectivity in modern life, CAC is spearheading initiatives focused on:

* Infrastructure Development: Advocating for increased investment in fiber optic networks, 5G deployment, and satellite internet solutions to reach underserved communities. this includes lobbying for favorable regulatory frameworks to encourage private sector participation.

* Affordability Programs: Working with governments and telecom providers to develop and implement programs that make internet access more affordable for low-income households. This is crucial for ensuring digital inclusion and preventing a widening digital divide.

* Digital Literacy Training: investing in programs designed to equip citizens with the skills needed to effectively utilize the internet. This encompasses basic computer skills, online safety awareness, and advanced digital competencies for the workforce.

* Regional Connectivity Projects: Facilitating cross-border collaborations to improve regional internet connectivity and reduce reliance on external infrastructure. This includes exploring options for shared infrastructure and regional internet exchange points (IXPs).

The Rise of AI in Caribbean Telecommunications

CAC recognizes that Artificial Intelligence is poised to revolutionize the telecommunications industry, and the Caribbean is no exception. The association is actively promoting the adoption of AI-powered solutions to enhance network efficiency, improve customer service, and drive innovation. Key areas of focus include:

* network Optimization: utilizing AI-driven network management tools to predict and prevent network outages, optimize bandwidth allocation, and improve overall network performance. This leads to a more reliable and efficient telecommunications infrastructure.

* Cybersecurity Enhancement: Leveraging AI for cybersecurity to detect and mitigate cyber threats in real-time.The Caribbean region is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks, making this a critical priority.

* Customer Experience improvement: Implementing AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants to provide 24/7 customer support, personalize service offerings, and resolve issues more efficiently.

* Data Analytics & Insights: Utilizing AI analytics to gain valuable insights into customer behavior, network usage patterns, and market trends. This data-driven approach enables more informed decision-making and targeted service development.

Case Study: AI-Powered fraud Detection in Mobile Payments

A recent pilot program in Jamaica, facilitated by CAC, demonstrated the effectiveness of AI-powered fraud detection in mobile payment systems.By analyzing transaction data in real-time, the AI algorithm identified and prevented a significant number of fraudulent transactions, resulting in significant financial savings for both consumers and businesses. This success story highlights the tangible benefits of AI adoption in the Caribbean telecommunications sector.

Benefits of CAC’s Strategic Shift

The combined focus on internet expansion and AI advancements offers a multitude of benefits for the Caribbean region:

* Economic Growth: Increased internet access and AI-driven innovation will stimulate economic growth by creating new buisness opportunities, attracting foreign investment, and boosting productivity.

* improved Education: Expanded internet connectivity will enable access to online learning resources, empowering students and educators alike.

* Enhanced Healthcare: Telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, powered by reliable internet and AI, will improve access to healthcare services, particularly in remote areas.

* Greater Resilience: A robust and resilient telecommunications infrastructure, enhanced by AI, will better prepare the region to withstand natural disasters and other emergencies.

* Increased Competitiveness: Adopting cutting-edge technologies will enhance the caribbean’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.

Practical Tips for Businesses & Individuals

* Businesses: explore opportunities to integrate AI-powered solutions into your operations to improve efficiency, enhance customer service, and gain a competitive edge. Invest in employee training to develop the skills needed to work with AI technologies.

* Individuals: Take advantage of digital literacy training programs to enhance your skills and prepare for the future of work. Stay informed about the latest developments in AI and how they might impact your industry.

* Policymakers: Create a supportive regulatory surroundings that encourages investment in internet infrastructure and AI innovation. Prioritize digital inclusion and ensure that all citizens have access to the benefits of technology.

The Future of Connectivity in the Caribbean

CAC’s 25th anniversary marks not just a party of past achievements, but a bold commitment to a future where the Caribbean is a leader in digital transformation. By prioritizing internet accessibility, embracing the power of AI, and fostering collaboration across the region, CAC is paving the way for a more connected, innovative, and prosperous Caribbean. The focus on 5G technology, cloud computing, and IoT (Internet of Things) will further accelerate this transformation in the coming years.