News, 03 September 2025
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR-25)
The Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR-25) was held from 31 August to 3 September 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, bringing together over 1,200 participants, including ministers and heads of regulatory authorities, to explore the future of digital regulation. Under the theme Regulation for Sustainable Digital Development, the symposium addressed key issues such as AI governance, the space economy, e-waste management, and inclusive digital transformation.
A major outcome of the event was the adoption of the GSR-25 Best Practice Guidelines, which offer actionable tools for regulators to foster resilient, inclusive digital ecosystems. ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin and BDT Director Cosmas Zavazava emphasized the critical role of regulation in shaping a connected future for all.
News, 08 August 2025
Awaza, Turkmenistan
Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3)
The Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) was held from 5 to 8 August 2025 in Awaza, Turkmenistan. ITU actively contributed to the conference, emphasizing the role of digital connectivity in overcoming the geographic and economic challenges faced by LLDCs.
ITU co-organized several high-level sessions focused on bridging the digital divide, fostering innovation, and enabling e-commerce. These included “Bridging the Digital Divide in LLDCs,” “Emerging Technologies: Bridging the Gap,” and “Digital Development: Is Digitalization the Solution to Landlockedness?”
A key highlight was the launch of ITU’s new data report, Facts and Figures – Focus on LLDCs, which revealed that while mobile broadband coverage has expanded significantly, actual internet usage remains low due to affordability, digital literacy gaps, and limited relevant content.
ITU’s engagement at LLDC3 reinforced its commitment to inclusive digital development and its support for the Awaza Programme of Action, which aims to accelerate sustainable development in LLDCs through enhanced connectivity and innovation.
News, 28 July 2025
Geneva, Switzerland
Launch of second cohort of Generation Connect Youth Leadership Programme
BDT welcomed 31 young leaders from around the world to Geneva for the launch of the second cohort of its Generation Connect Youth Leadership Programme. Held during Development Week 2025, the event marked the beginning of a year-long fellowship focused on digital innovation and community impact.
Fellows presented their project ideas to ambassadors and stakeholders, addressing issues such as AI-powered disaster alerts, digital literacy for girls, and cybersecurity education for women. Each fellow received USD 5,000 in seed funding, mentorship, and training from ITU and Huawei. Six projects were selected for an additional USD 5,000 grant to scale their initiatives.
The session also featured updates from two 2024 fellows who shared progress on their projects.
ITU’s engagement reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive digital development.
News, 31 May 2025
Tokyo, Japan
APT Ministerial Meeting 2025
The Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Ministerial Meeting 2025 was held from 30 to 31 May in Tokyo, Japan, under the theme Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Sustainable, Inclusive and Equitable Digital Transformation in the Asia-Pacific. The event convened over 200 participants, including ministers, senior officials, and representatives from international organizations, to chart a strategic course for digital development across the region.
A key outcome of the meeting was the adoption of the Tokyo Statement, which outlines six strategic priorities: digital connectivity, innovation and entrepreneurship, trust and safety, digital inclusion, sustainability, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. These priorities aim to guide regional efforts toward building resilient, inclusive digital ecosystems.
Japan’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, Murakami Seiichiro, chaired the meeting and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to regional ICT cooperation. ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau Director Cosmas Zavazava participated in the discussions, highlighting the importance of partnerships and innovation in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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News, 16 May 2025
Geneva, Switzerland
32nd Meeting of the Telecommunication Development Advisory Group (TDAG-25)
The 32nd meeting of the Telecommunication Development Advisory Group (TDAG-25) was held from 12 to 16 May 2025 at ITU Headquarters in Geneva, in a hybrid format. The meeting brought together global stakeholders to review progress on the Kigali Action Plan and ensure alignment with the ITU Strategic Plan. Delegates examined reports from Regional Development Forums, discussed new initiatives and partnerships, and explored strategies to accelerate digital transformation.
TDAG-25 also served as a key preparatory step for the upcoming World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25). The meeting emphasized inclusive connectivity, youth engagement, and innovation, reinforcing ITU’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering communities worldwide.
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