From Data to Decisions: accelerating meaningful connectivity through the Connectivity Planning Platform (CPP)


ITU

Session 326

Monday, 6 July 2026 11:00–11:45 (UTC+02:00) Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation Room K2, ITU Montbrillant Building Interactive Session

 As countries accelerate digital transformation, effective connectivity planning requires more than infrastructure investment; it requires trusted data, cross-sector collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making. This session will explore how the Connectivity Planning Platform (CPP) supports governments and stakeholders in identifying connectivity gaps, evaluating deployment scenarios, and prioritizing investments to advance meaningful connectivity. Bringing together perspectives from government, industry, and international organizations, the discussion will highlight how collaborative planning can help turn data into action and accelerate progress towards universal and sustainable digital connectivity.

Panellists
Mr. Gonzalo Suardiaz
Mr. Gonzalo Suardiaz Ericsson Moderator

 With over 18 years of experience in the ICT sector, I have contributed to diverse projects and initiatives, driving innovation, operational excellence and digital transformation across multiple markets and business areas. My experience spans the full value chain, from product and service design to network infrastructure, customer engagement and emerging technologies, with a consistent focus on human impact and learning at scale. 
 
Through roles in BSS, OSS, Media, Cloud, and Sustainability, I have worked in more than 40 countries and built trusted relationships at all organizational levels. Operating in complex, cross-cultural environments has strengthened my systems thinking and reinforced my belief in inclusive, human-centered leadership as a key enabler of sustainable change. 


Ms. Kelly Ommundsen
Ms. Kelly Ommundsen Head of Digital Inclusion and a Member of the Executive Committee World Economic Forum

 As Head of Digital Inclusion, Kelly combines her expertise in technology, policy, and partnerships with her commitment to social equity to drive meaningful change. Through flagship initiatives which she is leading, such as the EDISON Alliance and the Forum's portfolio on GovTech, she champions public-private partnerships to help bridge the digital divide and enable meaningful digital transformation. 
Prior to this position, Kelly served as the Chief of Staff to the Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum for over 5 years, as well as managed the Forum's Board of Trustees, its top governance body, and served as the official secretary. 


Mr. Juan Cruz Moroni
Mr. Juan Cruz Moroni Digital Transformation and Policy Expert Universal Postal Union

 Digital transformation and policy expert with 10+ years of international experience driving inclusive and sustainable digital development. At the Universal Postal Union (UPU), I advise governments, coordinate multistakeholder initiatives like Connect.post, and design digital public infrastructure projects. 
 
With a background in telecommunications engineering and public policy, I’ve worked across sectors and organizations, including the GSMA, the European Commission and ITU, on topics ranging from digital inclusion and cybersecurity to blockchain and AI. I’m passionate about bridging technology, policy, and impact to build more inclusive and sustainable societies. 


Ms. Nino Grdzelishvili
Ms. Nino Grdzelishvili Head of International Relations Office Georgian National Communications Commission Remote Panellist

Walid Mathlouthi
Walid Mathlouthi Head FNS Division ITU

Topics
Artificial Intelligence Big Data Digital Divide Digital Inclusion Digital Transformation Emerging Technologies Global Digital Compact (GDC) Infrastructure WSIS+20 Review
WSIS Action Lines
  • AL C1 logo C1. The role of governments and all stakeholders in the promotion of ICTs for development
  • AL C7 E–GOV logo C7. ICT applications: benefits in all aspects of life — E-government
  • AL C11 logo C11. International and regional cooperation
Sustainable Development Goals
  • Goal 9 logo Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
  • Goal 10 logo Goal 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries
  • Goal 16 logo Goal 16: Promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies
  • Goal 17 logo Goal 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
GDC Objectives
  • Objective 1: Close all digital divides and accelerate progress across the Sustainable Development Goals
  • Objective 5: Enhance international governance of artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity
Links

https://cpp.itu.int/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG6n3WeKnbM