Connecting the world and beyond

WSIS Forum 2026: Building fit-for-purpose networks Emergency Telecommunications in Action

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Session Background

​​When disaster strikes, communication saves lives. Reliable telecommunications are the backbone of effective disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Mobile networks and digital technologies enable early warnings, real-time information sharing, and seamless coordination between governments, humanitarian actors, and affected communities. In emergencies, connectivity must not fail. 

This session will discuss the key points of the new practical guide for regulators on establishing national emergency roaming frameworks — a critical solution to keep people connected when networks are damaged. Emergency roaming allows users to automatically switch to any available mobile network in affected areas, ensuring uninterrupted access to emergency services, life-saving alerts, and critical communications for first responders and communities.​

Programme

Moderator: TBC

Time (CEST​)
DescriptionSpeaker
16:00 – 16:05
Opening segment 

16:05 – 16:35

Moderated Panel Discussion: From Policy to Practice 


16:35 – 16:43

Interactive Q&A: Audience Exchange

​​​16:43 – 16:45

Closing remarks

Expected outcomes

  • ​​​​Clearer shared understanding among participants of the policy, regulatory, and governance levers that strengthen emergency telecommunications before, during, and after disasters.
  • Practical takeaways on how emergency roaming, network resilience measures, and digital tools can maintain continuity of service and support early warning and response operations.
  • Panel-driven exchange of implementation experiences and lessons learned (including NETPs and emergency roaming), helping participants identify concrete next steps and resources relevant to their national context.
  • Strengthened connections among governments, regulators, mobile operators, and humanitarian partners, with clearer opportunities for collaboration and follow-up to advance resilient emergency telecommunications.