Contact: standards@itu.int

The World Standards Cooperation (WSC) was established in 2001 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in order to strengthen and advance the voluntary consensus-based international standards systems of ITU, ISO, and IEC. The WSC also promotes the adoption and implementation of international consensus-based standards worldwide; and resolves any outstanding issues regarding cooperation in the technical work of the three organizations.

Several initiatives have been undertaken by the WSC since its constitution, including workshops, education and training, and the promotion of international standards system in several contexts.

ITU, ISO, and IEC believe that international standards are an instrument enabling the development of a harmonized, stable and globally recognized framework for the dissemination and use of technologies, best practices and agreements, which support the overall growth of the Information Society. Indeed, their transparent and consensual mechanisms, based on the possible contribution of all interested stakeholders, as well as their extensive network of national members, represent strong assets for market relevance and acceptance, as well as for more equitable development.

The three organizations are working together to implement the strategic role of international ICT standards for development and trade, as recognized and reflected in the declaration of principles and plan of action adopted by WSIS.

WSC will ensure that the three world-wide international standards development organizations (ITU, IEC, and ISO), work transparently, and avoid duplication and overlap of work, as much as possible.

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