Geneva: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin highlighted the significance of this year's World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD), as it marks the 160th anniversary of the organization. Celebrated annually on 17 May since 1969, the day commemorates the founding of the ITU and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865.
According to Emirates News Agency, Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the ITU's historical contributions to communication advancements, including the telegraph, telephone, satellites, mobile phones, the Internet, and artificial intelligence. Despite significant progress over the past sixteen decades, she noted that one-third of humanity remains offline, indicating the ongoing challenges in achieving global connectivity.
Bogdan-Martin remarked that World Telecommunication and Information Society Day serves as a reminder of the work still needed to ensure that everyone, particularly women and girls, can fully benefit from technological opportunities. She expressed gratitude to ITU's 194 Member States and over 1,000 organizations from various sectors, acknowledging their efforts in shaping a digital future that serves all.
The theme for WTISD 2025 underscores the urgency of advancing digital gender equality, aiming to empower women and girls worldwide to engage in and benefit from the digital transformation.
