BDT Director Doreen Bogdan-Martin gave opening remarks at the Network of Women for WTDC event held during the Global Symposium for Regulators 2021.
The Network of Women for WTDC was established to boost women's representation in leadership positions in the structures that make up ITU-D.
Ms Bogdan-Martin noted that data from earlier in 2021 showed that only 13% of ICT Ministers were women, and similarly, only 13% of Regulators were women.
''Gender balance and increasing diversity in digital development is not optional— inclusivity in all its aspects is a precursor to getting meaningful connectivity to all,'' she said.
The Network comprises of a mentorship program, for experienced professionals to guide women who are at earlier stages of their careers. Ms Bogdan-Martin announced the call for mentees in this program, and reminded attendees that they can still sign up to be mentors.
She encouraged participants to take an active part in the interactive dialogues planned in the coming months, to keep conversations going so that the Network can provide its intended support.
