Gender equality in digital transformation
17 May is World Telecommunication
Information Society Day
Closing the gender digital divide unlocks opportunity for all
Digital technologies have the power to accelerate progress across every sector of society, yet that potential remains out of reach for many. Of the 2.6 billion people still unconnected, the majority are women and girls. Gaps in access and affordability of the internet and digital devices, as well as limited digital skills, continue to hinder the participation of women and girls in today’s economy and in shaping tomorrow’s digital solutions. Bridging this divide is essential to unlocking new pathways for economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2025 highlights the pressing need to advance digital gender equality, so that women and girls everywhere can also benefit from and contribute to digital transformation.
As the world marks 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, WTISD-25 is a critical moment to accelerate collective action that ensures digital transformation delivers opportunity for everyone, everywhere.
ITU’s 160th anniversary
WTISD marks the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) – the United Nations agency for digital technologies. In 2025, ITU commemorates its 160th anniversary, highlighting its long-standing role in advancing global connectivity and fostering international cooperation Learn more
Light show on 160 years of connecting humanity
Join this public anniversary event on 17 May, either in person in Geneva, Switzerland or via ITU’s social media platforms Learn more
What is #WTISD?
Discover the history of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day and this year’s focus on advancing gender equality in digital transformation Learn more
ITU160 Gender Champions initiative
Applications are now closed for the ITU160 Gender Champions initiative. Stay tuned to meet the nine young women making a difference in digital development and digital transformation worldwide. Learn more