The United Nations (UN) World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is annually observed across the globe on 17 May to raise awareness of the benefits of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICT) and highlight the potential of ICTs to enhance societies and economies, as well as bridge the digital divide.
- WTISD 2024 was observed under the theme: “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development.”
Note: The theme explores how digital innovation can connect everyone and unlock sustainable prosperity globally.
Significance:
i.WTISD 2024 emphasises the need for continued progress to ensure that everyone benefits from digital technologies.
ii.WTISD 2024 highlights the key role of digital innovation in promoting sustainable development and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Background:
i.World Telecommunication Day has been celebrated annually on 17 May since 1969.
- 17 May marks the anniversary of the signing of the 1st International Telegraph Convention and the creation of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the UN agency for digital technologies in 1865.
ii.In November 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) urged the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to declare 17 May as World Information Society Day.
- Aim: To highlight the significance of ICT and issues related to the Information Society raised by WSIS.
iii.The UNGA adopted Resolution A/RES/60/252 in March 2006 to celebrate World Information Society Day annually on 17 May.
iv.In November 2006, the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in Antalya, Türkiye, decided to celebrate both events on 17 May as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
Key Facts:
i.Digital technologies are crucial in achieving 70% of the UN SDGs, from combating climate change to eradicating hunger and poverty.
ii.Building a sustainable future demands innovative thinking and action in the digital world.
Addressing Digital Gaps:
i.Connectivity Issue: 2.6 billion people remain unconnected, hindering global innovation.
ii.Challenges: Many countries struggle due to inadequate policies, investments, and digital skills.
2024 Events:
On 17 May 2024, a virtual event was organised from the TV Studio at ITU Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Observance in India:
On 16 May 2024, on the eve of WTISD, India celebrated its international collaborations on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
- 4G and 5G Expansion: India boasts 99% 4G coverage, including over 6 lakh villages, and around 4.42 lakh 5G Base Transceiver Station (BTS) installations.
About International Telecommunication Union (ITU):
Secretary-General– Doreen Bogdan-Martin
Established in– 1865
