T
he world’s economies and societies are increasingly dependent on high-speed communication networks. Recognizing its importance for economic growth and development, ITU-D gives a high priority to deployment and greater access to broadband networks. ITU-D works with leading ICT organizations across the public and private sectors, as well as broader society to examine the vital issues and critical success factors in broadband deployments. Through statistical tracking and analysis, ITU-D measures the development of broadband and the global information society, as well as the evolution of the policy and regulatory landscape, across more than 180 countries.
The importance of broadband was highlighted at the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-10), held in Hyderabad, India, in 2010, where ITU Member States identified the roll-out of broadband as a key target among 28 regional initiatives. Through ITU-D’s expertise and breadth of geographical reach, ITU-D is promoting the spread of broadband around the world.
ITU-D assists ITU Member States in designing national and regional ICT policies and strategies as well as an enabling legal and regulatory environment that encourages business investment in networks and services. To that aim, ITU-D develops various platforms and tools for sharing data, analysis and information on key regulatory issues as well as best practices. ITU-D also helps mobilize key stakeholders to finance, plan, build and operate broadband infrastructure, particularly where it helps underserved populations in rural areas. ITU-D shares knowledge in the latest technologies and applications and demonstrates how to secure high-speed networks against cyber-risks and cyber-threats.
At every opportunity, in every region and at every level, ITU-D works with public and private sector partners to build local expertise, capabilities and skills. By doing all this and prioritizing the build-out of broadband, the ITU-D hopes to empower people everywhere to truly realize their full potential. In short, ITU-D is committed to connecting the least connected.
