{"id":508,"date":"2026-03-26T15:31:13","date_gmt":"2026-03-26T15:31:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/?page_id=508"},"modified":"2026-04-29T10:58:58","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T10:58:58","slug":"highlights-march2026","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/highlights-march2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Highlights &#8211; March2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong>Digital inclusion:<\/strong> Global<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>On the margins of MWC Barcelona and at the Tech Cares Forum organized by Huawei, ITU\u2019s Telecommunication Development Bureau officially announced the opening of applications for the newest cohort of the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme. The programme seeks 30 visionary young leaders aged 18 to 28 from every corner of the globe, ready to transform their boldest tech ideas into impactful local action. Applications are open until 31 March 2026.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/generationconnect\/empower\/generation-connect-young-leadership-programme-in-partnership-with-huawei-v2\/\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Reference document        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>[This activity is the result of a BDT project. You can find more details of the project <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=7GLO23132\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=7GLO23132\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>]<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-16d1eb73\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-728072c3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Digital inclusion<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>On 16 February, the ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific jointly conducted a session on \u201cAI and Economic Power \u2013 A Roadmap to Women-Led Prosperity\u201d in partnership with the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), during the India AI Impact Summit held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, India. The discussion highlighted the importance of empowering women as creators, innovators, and owners in the AI ecosystem, with emphasis on capacity building, AI literacy, digital ethics, and cybersecurity awareness, as well as the need to address digital risks such as deepfakes, strengthen platform accountability, and ensure supportive policies that protect women online.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-728072c3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Other<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific participated in the 13th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD), held 24-27 February at the United Nations Conference Center (UNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand, under the theme \u201cTransformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for a sustainable future for all\u201d. As an annual intergovernmental forum, APFSD supports follow-up and review of the progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the SDGs at the regional level, aiming to inform, empower, and support Asia-Pacific countries in achieving the SDGs by identifying regional trends and sharing best practices. In alignment with the focus of the 2026 High-level Political Forum (HLPF), the 13th APFSD assessed progress on the SDGs under review in 2026: Goal 6, 7, 9, 11, and 17. Together with other UN agencies, The ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific contributed to the Round Table on SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by moderating the Breakout Group discussion on the topic of &#8220;Fostering Innovation&#8221; and provided inputs to the SDG 9 Goal Profile.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Digital innovation ecosystems<\/strong><\/strong>: Africa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>On 6 March, the African Digital Transformation Centre was launched in Pretoria, South Africa, as part of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development led by ITU\u2019s Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT). The Centre is hosted by the Department of Digital Communications and Technologies of South Africa and is a nationally owned institution developed in cooperation with BDT under a project funded by the Republic of South Africa.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The Centre will support ICT small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and digital entrepreneurs by providing access to world-class facilities, business development support, mentorship networks, funding pathways and market linkages. By bringing together government, private sector, academia and civil society, the Centre will strengthen innovation ecosystems and help translate emerging technologies into inclusive economic opportunities, supporting digital transformation in South Africa and across the region.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>[This activity is the result of a BDT project. You can find more details of the project <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=9SAF19004\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=9SAF19004\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>]<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Other<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific participated in the 30th Meeting of the Regional Interagency Working Group on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), which was held on 16 February 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. Hosted by the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT), seven international organizations (ITU, APT, UNESCAP, ICAO, WMO, WFP, UNU) participated in the meeting to discuss ICT initiatives and collaboration opportunities. During the meeting, each organization presented the updates and planned activities in 2026 and discussed potential areas of collaboration. The ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific highlighted the outcomes from WTDC-25, particularly the Baku Action Plan and the Regional Initiatives for Asia and the Pacific 2026-2029, and introduced key activities of the ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Cybersecurity<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>From 3 to 5 March, the ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific supported the INTERPOL Cybercrime Operations Coordination Meeting and Cyber Drill in Bangkok, Thailand, serving as an exercise facilitator during the Cyber Drill.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Emergency telecommunications<\/strong><\/strong>: Global<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>At the Mobile World Congress 2026 Ministerial Programme session on &#8220;Mobile alerts save lives: Industry perspective&#8221; on 2 March, BDT underscored the potential of cell broadcast technology to turn mobile networks into life-saving alerts when integrated into early warning systems. With most of the infrastructure already in place\u201499% of the world&#8217;s population covered by mobile networks, and 8 out of 10 people owning a mobile phone\u2014cell broadcast represents a cost-effective but proven solution that can save lives. The session also highlighted the importance of partnerships among governments, private sector actors, and multilateral organizations to ensure early warning systems work for everyone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Emergency telecommunications<\/strong><\/strong>: Global<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>On 10 March, BDT participated in the Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Weeks 2026 session on \u201cEarth Intelligence for Humanitarian Action,\u201d organized by the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) and the Risk informed Early Action Partnership. The event brought together partners from the humanitarian, disaster risk reduction, and early warning communities to explore how earth observation data and derived solutions can strengthen decision making and support anticipatory action, including under the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative. BDT presented the Early Warning Connectivity Map, a tool that uses earth observation data to assess communication infrastructure resilience by integrating three core layers: network connectivity, population density, and hazard exposure. BDT also emphasized the importance of investing in and piloting solutions at the country level to demonstrate impact and scalability, inviting stakeholders working on the use of AI and earth observations for people centred early warning systems to engage with the AI for EW4All Group led by ITU.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/en\/ITU-D\/Emergency-Telecommunications\/Pages\/EW4ALL\/Connectivity-maps.aspx\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Reference document        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Emergency telecommunications<\/strong><\/strong>: Africa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>From 3 to 6 March, the Regional Emergency Telecommunications Workshop for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries took place in Harare, Zimbabwe. Participants from across the region engaged in a simulation exercise that helped strengthen national emergency telecommunications capacities for disaster management. During the workshop, Zimbabwe showcased the implementation of its National Emergency Telecommunication Plan (NETP) and the gap analysis conducted on Pillar 3: Warning dissemination and communication of the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative aimed at ensuring everyone, everywhere is protected through life-saving early warning messages.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Environmental<\/strong><\/strong>: Global<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The &#8220;India study tour webinar &#8211; International e-waste exchange insights,&#8221; took place on 17 March, as part of the ITU\u2013Government of Colombia joint project, \u201cInternational Exchange Initiative on Regulating E-waste and Engaging Tech Companies.\u201d The session provided a platform to share lessons learned from the recent e-waste study tour in India. The webinar brought together over 60 participants, including national focal points and sector partners, to reflect on key insights and explore opportunities for advancing sustainable e waste management at the country level. Building on the momentum of the India study tour and webinar, BDT will continue facilitating the project&#8217;s implementation through knowledge exchange and regional collaboration, with the next study tour scheduled to take place in South Africa on 20-24 April 2026.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/en\/ITU-D\/Environment\/Pages\/Projects\/ewaste-exchange.aspx\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Reference document        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>[This activity is the result of a BDT project. You can find more details of the project <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=7GLO25152\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=7GLO25152\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>]<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Network and digital infrastructure<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific addressed the 12th Asia Pacific Spectrum Management Conference in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on 11 March. The event brought together regional experts and policymakers to exchange views on the future of spectrum management in the Asia Pacific region. The intervention underscored BDT\u2019s work in efforts supporting to strengthen national spectrum management frameworks and promote resilient emergency telecommunications in disaster-prone regions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>New Members<\/strong><\/strong>: Arab States<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The Iraqi Association for Information and Communication Technology (IAICT) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the ICT sector in Iraq through education, networking, and innovation. Founded in 2022, IAICT brings together professionals, students, and organizations to foster growth in technology and digital transformation across Iraq. IAICT\u2019s mission is to advance Iraq&#8217;s technological capabilities through cutting-edge research, innovative solutions, and comprehensive education programs in ICT.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong>TDAG<\/strong>: Global<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The 33rd meeting of the Telecommunication Development Advisory Group (TDAG) was held in Geneva, Switzerland, from 7 to 10 April. The annual meeting helps to guide the work of the ITU Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D). The 2026 meeting, the first after the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), reviewed the outcomes of WTDC-2025 and provided advice to guide the work of ITU-D in the next 4 years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/meetings\/tdag-26\/\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Web Page        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>RDF<\/strong><\/strong>: Europe<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The annual ITU Regional Development Forum for Europe (RDF-EUR), held on 24 March 2026 in Prague, Czech Republic, welcomed over 80 participants representing 26 Member States, Regional Organizations, UN specialised agencies, Sector Members, Academia and other stakeholders to discuss priority development issues for the region and the implementation of the new Regional Initiatives adopted at the World Telecommunication Development Conference in 2025 (WTDC-25).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/meetings\/rdf\/home\/rdf-2026\/europe\/home\/\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Web Page        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/meetings\/rdf\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/31\/2026\/03\/RDF-EUR-26-Members-CommuniqueV2.pdf\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Members Communique        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Know Your Members series<\/strong><\/strong>: Global<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>On 30 March, BDT held a Know Your Members session which brought together ITU-D Sector Members for an exchange of information and strengthening relations with ITU\u2019s Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT). The dialogue helped better understand the private sector&#8217;s priorities, explore areas of shared interest, and strengthen engagement in line with the Baku Action Plan.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The Know Your Members series provides personalized and targeted opportunities for membership to share views openly and freely with the BDT Director on their participation in the work of the ITU-D.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Cybersecurity<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>BDT participated in the Asia-Pacific Regional Forum on Teachers: Elevate, Support and Invest in the Teaching Profession, held from 31 March to 2 April in Bangkok, Thailand. During the Forum \u2018s Gallery Walk session, a presentation on ITU&#8217;s Child Online Protection (COP) Educator Training, highlighted the Training of Trainers programme for Educators, including the implementation in the Federated States of Micronesia and the Maldives in 2025. The session helped raise awareness among education stakeholders of ITU&#8217;s COP resources and initiatives.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Digital Inclusion<\/strong><\/strong>: Americas<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The Latin America Bootcamp on ICT Network Management for Rural, Remote and Indigenous Communities was held from 18 to 25 March in Puebla, Mexico. The event brought together community leaders, technical practitioners, regulators, academia, and development partners, to strengthen capacities in community network deployment, broadcasting, and sustainable connectivity solutions. Through hands-on training and policy and regulatory discussions, the bootcamp fostered knowledge exchange and collaboration community-driven initiatives in underserved areas across the Americas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong><strong>Emergency telecommunications<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong>: CIS<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>On 17 March, the Early Warnings for All National Roadmap Validation Workshop for Armenia was held in Yerevan, organized by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in partnership EW4All pillar leads, UNDRR, WMO, ITU, and IFRC, along with UNDP and the UN Resident Coordinator Office. During the workshop, the Government of Armenia reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that everyone, everywhere is protected by life\u2011saving early warning alerts and endorsed a joint statement with partners, including BDT to help advance the initiative&#8217;s implementation in the country.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong><strong>Emergency telecommunications<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>BDT participated virtually in the Second Workshop of the ASEAN Emergency Telecommunication Network (ETN), held in Vang Vieng, Lao PDR, from 31 March to 1 April. The workshop brought together ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat and partners to review progress of the ASEAN ETN workplan, and discussed priority initiatives on capacity building, infrastructure and services, equipment pre-positioning and standard operating procedures. BDT highlighted the importance of National Emergency Telecommunications Plans, the Tampere Convention and related capacity-building initiatives to support these priorities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Environment<\/strong><\/strong>: Africa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>From 23 to 27 March, the Circular Economy through E\u2011waste Policy and Producer Action in\u2011person training took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, bringing together participants from 12 countries across Africa, Asia and the Pacific, and the Americas. Delivered by ITU Academy, with support from the European Union\u2019s Global Gateway initiative, the training was based on BDT\u2019s Creating a Circular Economy for Electronics programme and included knowledge\u2011exchange sessions and a visit to an e\u2011waste recycling facility. The training aimed to strengthen national and regional capacity on extended producer responsibility and environmentally sound e\u2011waste management, helping translation of policy frameworks into practical action and support digital sustainability.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/academy.itu.int\/training-courses\/full-catalogue\/circular-economy-through-e-waste-policy-and-producer-action-0\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Reference Document        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Environment<\/strong><\/strong>: Africa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The National E\u2011waste Management Strategy for Botswana was formally launched by the BDT Director on 31 March, on the International Day of Zero Waste, following its official handover to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority. Developed through close the collaboration between BDT and the Government of Botswana, the Strategy provides a national framework to promote circular economy practices for electronics and unlock green economic opportunities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/en\/ITU-D\/Environment\/Pages\/Publications\/Botswana-national-strategy.aspx\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Reference Document        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong><strong>Network and digital infrastructure<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong>: Africa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The AI sessions, conducted at the National Institute of Communications facilities in Maputo, Mozambique, on 11 March, brought together national stakeholders, regulators, and technical experts to explore how Artificial Intelligence can be applied to accelerate affordable and inclusive connectivity. Organized by BDT the sessions demonstrated how to AI and data\u2011driven tools can support telecommunications infrastructure planning and evidence-based decision-making in developing countries. Participants were introduced to solutions for digital infrastructure gap analysis, including tools using satellite imagery and automated proximity assessment to backbone fibre networks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n    <p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/en\/ITU-D\/Technology\/Pages\/EmergingTechnologiesPages\/ai_training_maputo_mar2026.aspx\" class=\"ituBtn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n            Reference Document        <\/a>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>[This activity is the result of a BDT project. You can find more details of the project <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=9GLO23134\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/net4\/ITU-D\/CDS\/projects\/display.asp?ProjectNo=9GLO23134\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>]<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Other<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Mid-term Review of the Doha Programme of Action (DPoA) for the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) (2022-2031) was held from 31 March to 1 April in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, bringing together LDCs, UN entities, regional organizations, and development partners to review progress and challenges in implementing the DPoA. As part of the regional preparatory process for the global Mid-term Review in 2027, the meeting assessed achievements since 2022 and identified priorities for the next phase of the DPoA implementation (2027-2031). During a session on science, technology and innovation, BDT delivered a presentation highlighting the role of digital technologies in addressing multidimensional vulnerabilities and closing persistent connectivity and innovation gaps in LDCs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#abb7c20f\"><div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><strong><strong>Other<\/strong><\/strong>: Asia and the Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p>BDT participated in the 3rd Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Preparatory Group for the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26), organized by the APT on 30 March to2 April in Bangkok, Thailand. Hosted by the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, the event brought together APT Members to coordinate regional positions prepare contributions to PP-26. BDT delivered a presentation, outlining the timeline of the preparatory process and other practical information.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-62aae154\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:0px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-cf2db169\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"ituContainer\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Digital inclusion: Global On the margins of MWC Barcelona and at the Tech Cares Forum organized by Huawei, ITU\u2019s Telecommunication Development Bureau officially announced the opening of applications for the newest cohort of the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme. The programme seeks 30 visionary young leaders aged 18 to 28 from every corner of the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":13,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-508","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/508","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=508"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/508\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.itu.int\/itu-d\/sites\/bdt-highlights\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=508"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}