As 2G/3G services are shut down in favour of 4G networks, interoperability issues between handsets and networks may cause end-users to be unable to have any voice or SMS services, including emergency calls.
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The Shutdown of 2G/3G Networks: Impacts on Emergency Communications
As mobile operators across Europe continue to phase out 2G and 3G networks, the impact on emergency communications is significant, affecting roaming compatibility, the functioning of eCall and other emergency systems, and the reliability of IP-based emergency communications. This evolution introduces new risks that must be addressed to protect the accessibility of emergency services.
Why is the shutdown of 2G/3G networks a concern for emergency communications?
While 4G and 5G offer more advanced capabilities, many emergency communication systems were designed to operate on 2G and 3G networks. Their phase-out creates several concerns:
- Devices relying on 2G/3G fallback during roaming may not be able to connect in some countries.
• Legacy systems, including eCall devices in vehicles and monitored many alarms in homes, depend on 2G/3G to function.
• Not all networks or devices fully support emergency calls over 4G/5G (IMS), particularly in cross-border scenarios.
Without coordinated action, there is a risk of citizens losing access to emergency services when they need them most.
Which systems are affected by the 2G/3G switch-off?
- eCall systems in vehicles:
The current eCall system was designed for 2G/3G networks. As these networks are decommissioned:
- Vehicles with legacy eCall modules may no longer be able to make emergency calls
Upgrading to NG eCall requires 4G/5G-capable hardware and supporting - Infrastructure, which is still being deployed
- Roaming and mobile devices:
Older or LTE-only devices may not be able to complete emergency calls when roaming in a country with different network support:
- If IMS emergency calling isn’t supported, calls may fail
- If 2G/3G fallback is removed, there’s no backup option
- Monitored alarms and third-party emergency services:
Many home security, fire and medical alert systems use 2G/3G to send signals to control centres.
These systems are particularly critical for vulnerable populations and must be addressed in national shutdown strategies.
Will emergency calls still work in the future?
The intention is that emergency calls will transition to IMS (IP-based) services over 4G and 5G. However, several issues remain:
- IMS emergency calling is not consistently implemented across all networks and devices
- There are no binding EU-wide rules ensuring IMS emergency call reliability
- The ability for PSAPs to return a call to someone in distress is not guaranteed in all network scenarios, particularly when relying solely on 4G/5G and IMS
- Roaming scenarios are particularly at risk, as fallback options disappear
Read more: Emergency Communications over LTE and IMS: Unresolved Issues and Risks
What can public authorities and stakeholders do?
To support preparedness, authorities should ensure that the timeline for shutting down 2G and 3G networks is communicated clearly and publicly. Transparency in planning allows all stakeholders adequate time to assess risks and upgrade their technologies accordingly. It is also essential that 2G or 3G networks remain available for a reasonable period, until emergency communications over newer technologies are fully guaranteed and reliable.
To ensure a smooth transition and protect public safety, EENA recommends:
- Guarantee uninterrupted access to emergency services, including during roaming
- Mandate robust support for emergency calls over IMS as 2G/3G fallback disappears
- Ensure cross-border interoperability for all emergency calls
- Monitor and safeguard emergency third-party systems, including alarms and telecare
- Support timely upgrades of PSAP infrastructure and end-user devices to meet upcoming compliance deadlines
These steps are essential to ensure that the evolution of digital networks does not compromise the public’s ability to reach emergency services.
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