WRC-12 MEDIA BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The World Radiocommunication Conference will open in Geneva, 23 January - 17 February 2012. The outcome of this international treaty-making conference will have worldwide ramifications in the field of communications.

1. Review and revise the international regulatory framework for radiocommunications –Radio Regulations – to reflect the increasing convergence in radio services arising from the rapid evolution of information and communication technologies (ICT).
2. Management of scarce radio-frequency spectrum to provide new opportunities for radiocommunication services, including those for maritime and aeronautical transport as well as for scientific purposes related to the environment, meteorology and climatology, disaster prediction, mitigation and relief.
3. Management of satellite orbital slots and associated spectrum resources.
4. The introduction of mobile broadband and other advanced technologies, the use of digital dividend resulting from the switch over to digital TV and the development of Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV).

The World Radiocommunication Conference, held every three to four years, is mandated to review and revise the Radio Regulations, the international treaty governing the use of radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits. WRC-12 will facilitate the management of scarce orbit/spectrum resources in the interest of end-users, with global implications for both policy-makers and the industry.

The ITU Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) plays a vital role in the global management of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits - limited natural resources which are increasingly in demand from a large and growing number of services such as fixed, mobile, broadcasting, amateur, space research, emergency telecommunications, meteorology, global positioning systems, environmental monitoring and communication services - that ensure safety of life on land, at sea and in the skies.

Our mission is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum by all radiocommunication services, including those using satellite orbits, and to carry out studies and approve Recommendations on radiocommunication matters.

In implementing this mission, ITU-R aims at creating the conditions for harmonized development and efficient operation of existing and new radiocommunication systems, taking due account of all parties concerned.

Our primary objective is to ensure interference-free operations of radiocommunication systems. This is ensured through implementation of the Radio Regulations and Regional Agreements, and the efficient and timely update of these instruments through the processes of the World and Regional Radiocommunication Conferences. Furthermore, radio standardization establishes ´Recommendations´ intended to assure the necessary performance and quality in operating radiocommunication systems. It also seeks ways and means to conserve spectrum and ensure flexibility for future expansion and new technological developments.

ITU-R manages the detailed coordination and recording procedures for space systems and earth stations. Its main role is to process and publish data and to carry out the examination of frequency assignment notices submitted by administrations for inclusion in the formal coordination procedures or recording in the Master International Frequency Register.

ITU-R also develops and manages space-related assignment or allotment plans and provides mechanisms for the development of new satellite services by locating suitable orbital slots

ITU-R accommodates the launch of new satellites as quickly and efficiently as possible. It facilitates any new developments and the continuation of satellite services in a safe way. It also squeezes more into the frequency bandwidth, which is a limited, finite resource. Our main concerns centre on bringing high speed satellite networks into service as well as the regulatory steps required for registering satellite network frequency assignments.

Everywhere, at every moment, people need to communicate and to understand each other. Encouraging communication between nations through the harmonious development of the tools made available to them is our ultimate goal.