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Network of Women in ITU-D

Background

The Network of Women (NoW) in the ITU Development Sector (ITU-D) plays a crucial role in empowering women to actively participate in decision-making within the telecommunication development sector. NoW in ITU-D aims to foster gender balance in ITU-D activities, including in the lead-up to the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25). The Network creates a supportive community where women delegates collaborate, network, advocate, and share experiences. Established in 2021, NoW in ITU-D has increased the visibility of women within ITU-D, leading to expanded roles and greater responsibilities.

Network of Women in ITU-D Objectives

Build, in the medium and long term, a community where female delegates support each other, expand their network, advocate and share experience and knowledge;
Promote the active participation of women in the activities of ITU and the sector in general;
Give visibility to women and empower them for larger responsibilities in their respective delegations, at WTDC and in future similar platforms;
Encourage experienced female delegates to mentor ICT professionals in order to create a stronger base for women in the digital space.

Network of Women in ITU-D Advisory Board

The NoW in ITU-D Advisory Board consists of members from all six regions and plays a crucial role in:
Providing strategic guidance to the BDT Director
Facilitating coordination among regional chapters
Promoting synergies in activities to enhance the network's impact

Together, the members of the advisory board are committed to foster a supportive community of women leaders in ITU-D and beyond. Find out more about the members here.

Building a Network of Women Leaders Project

Boosting the participation of women in the telecommunication development sector is a top priority for ITU, particularly in the areas of policy and regulation. The project “Building a network of women leaders”, sponsored by Saudi Arabia, empowers women by providing platforms that enhance their skills and support their equal participation in decision-making processes within the telecommunication development sector. This initiative is essential for building women’s capacity and ensuring they have the opportunities to lead and influence the future of telecommunications.

Key Components of the Project

Targeted capacity development activities for ITU-D delegates on digital and leadership skills
Mentorship Programme - Empowering Women Leaders Mentorship Program “Call for nominations” launched. Applications for 2025 mentorship programme is now closed. You can find more details on the program here.
Building regional networks

Events & Activities

15 May 2025 - 12:45 - 14:20 (CEST) - NoW in ITU-D networking event during the Telecommunication Development Advisory Board (TDAG-25)
Friday, February 21 - 13:00 - 14:00 (CET) - Empowering Women Leaders Mentorship Program Kick-off meeting
Wednesday, 3 July 2024 - 12:45 - 13:45 (EAT) - an interactive discussion: "Regulation for impact: a gender and leadership perspective" at GSR-24