Coalizão Direitos na Rede challenges Fust budget allocation for TV 3.0

The Coalizão Direitos na Rede (CDR) is calling for a revision of the 2027 budget proposal for the Fundo de Universalização dos Serviços de Telecomunicações (Fust). The group argues that the current proposal misaligns with the fund's purpose by allocating approximately R$ 2.57 billion—roughly two-thirds of the projected R$ 3.87 billion budget—to the 'Brasil Mais TV 3.0' program.

This program aims to finance the replacement of broadcasting equipment to transition from the ISDB-T standard to the ATSC standard. The CDR contends that these resources should instead be used to expand telecommunications services, such as providing broadband to unconnected areas and low-income populations. They noted that less than 10% of the total budget, or R$ 377 million, is currently earmarked for regions lacking commercial interest.

Furthermore, the CDR raised concerns regarding the lack of clear criteria for selecting beneficiary companies, the absence of defined operational guidelines for credit lines, and the potential for the budget to be implemented without sufficient oversight. The entity emphasizes that many Brazilians still lack basic connectivity and computers, making high-resolution interactive television services inaccessible to those who need digital inclusion most.