Unresolved gaps in next-generation emergency calling already affecting citizens
Policymakers and carriers should postpone the deactivation of older mobile networks, according to the European Emergency Number Association (EENA), which has flagged serious gaps in how emergency calls function over 4G and 5G infrastructure. The group released its position on 29 January, stating it "strongly recommends" delaying planned shutdowns until technical and regulatory obstacles are addressed.
Since 2022, EENA has warned that eliminating circuit-switched legacy networks risks cutting off emergency access for some people. Though 4G and 5G can theoretically handle emergency voice calls through IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) technology, the rollout has been uneven. Across networks, devices and borders, implementation varies significantly.
In nations where 2G or 3G networks have already been shut down, documented problems include unsuccessful emergency calls, poor audio quality, unreliable location tracking and public safety answering points unable to reach callers back. "These risks are no longer hypothetical," EENA stated, citing real-world evidence from regulators and emergency responders.
Sweden's shutdown reveals device incompatibility issues
Several European nations are accelerating the phase-out of legacy technologies as part of a global shift toward spectrum efficiency and lower operating costs. Sweden has begun decommissioning 2G and 3G networks, with carriers Tele2, Telenor and 3 (Tre) starting the process on 1 December 2025.
Swedish authorities have confirmed that the shutdown commenced in December 2025 and that certain older handsets can no longer dial emergency numbers once the legacy infrastructure is removed. In November, the Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS) cautioned that some 4G phones would lose access to the emergency number 112 after legacy networks disappear.
The PTS discovered that numerous devices with LTE data capability lack dependable Voice over LTE (VoLTE) emergency calling functionality. The regulator has instructed Tre, Telenor and Tele2 to catalogue problematic handset models, notify affected customers and begin blocking incompatible devices starting early 2026, to prevent users from mistakenly believing they can reach emergency services.
Devices lacking proper voice-over-LTE or IMS emergency support are being blocked between 1 December 2025 and 2 February 2026. Telia, however, plans to keep its 2G network running until 2027, allowing its customers a longer grace period for emergency call fallback.
Global precedent: Australia's 3G shutdown and emergency failures
Comparable challenges have surfaced beyond Europe. Australia's 3G network deactivation has resulted in numerous high-profile emergency call breakdowns, some connected to fatalities, triggering regulatory reviews and forcing carriers to alert customers with incompatible phones. The incidents highlight how the telecommunications sector has long depended on 2G and 3G as a backup for voice, even after LTE became widespread.
EENA views these cases as symptoms of a deeper structural flaw. Many emergency systems—including vehicle eCall modules, monitored alarm systems and telecare equipment—were built to function on 2G or 3G. Though modern replacements are available, the rollout of compatible systems and devices remains patchy, especially for roaming and international calls.
Calls for coordinated action before further shutdowns
EENA is calling on regulators, carriers and device makers to collaborate in establishing that 4G and 5G emergency calling is dependable, interoperable and trustworthy before deactivating older networks. The group also demands clearer communication about shutdown schedules and stronger protections for at-risk populations relying on third-party emergency systems.
Without urgent action, more people risk being unable to reliably reach emergency services or receive an appropriate emergency response when it matters most.
EENA
