World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 to set path for global connectivity and digital progress

​Global leaders in information and communication technologies will draw up a new roadmap for inclusive digital development at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), taking place from 17 to 28 November in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan, the discussions at WTDC-25 will focus on the push for universal, meaningful and affordable connectivity.

"For the 2.6 billion unconnected, digital development is more than a technical challenge. It's a test of our collective commitment to an inclusive, sustainable digital future for all," said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. "WTDC-25 is our moment to transform that commitment into action so that everyone, everywhere can benefit from technology."

Advancing connectivity and digital development

Taking place every four years, WTDC strengthens global collaboration on telecommunications challenges and develops forward-thinking solutions that unlock the potential of technology to benefit society.​

"Hosting WTDC-25 in Baku - the first in the Commonwealth of Independent States - is an honour and a historic vote of confidence from the ITU, forged over three decades of partnership since 1992," said Rashad Nabiyev, Azerbaijan's Minister of Digital Development and Transport. "Providing the venue for this important conference underscores Azerbaijan's rising leadership in meaningful connectivity and sustainable digital transformation, and our determination to shape the future of global telecommunications and digital inclusion."

Held under the theme "Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future," WTDC-25 will emphasize the digital development needs of the world's least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS).

ITU, the UN agency for digital technologies, estimates that about 2.6 billion people around the world lack access to the Internet. Expanding connectivity remains especially challenging in the LDCs and LLDCs, with just over one-third of their populations online.

Setting telecommunication development priorities

In Baku, ITU Member States will set priorities for the next four years for ITU's Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D), the ITU body that promotes socio-economic development through information and communication technologies.

Delegates will also adopt regional initiatives and approve questions to be addressed by ITU study groups in the same 2026-2029 period.

"Sustainable digital transformation calls for bold, human-centred action coupled with investment in resilient infrastructure, innovation and inclusiveness," said Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of ITU's Telecommunication Development Bureau. "WTDC-25 is our chance to define the next steps together with our members and partners to bridge the multiple digital divides to make meaningful connectivity a reality for everyone."

With the end of the decade approaching, WTDC will reaffirm the importance of digital technologies to advance people's well-being, protect the planet, and boost prosperity for all.

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Press opportunities at WTDC-25

• Opening Ceremony: 17 November
• High-Level Segment: 17-18 November
• Press conference: 17 November
  

Resources and background information:

• Media accreditation for reporters without existing UN accreditation can register at this link.
• Reporters accredited with the UN can email [email protected] with a photo of a UN press ID that is valid through the conference dates.
• Learn more about WTDC-25 here.
• Practical information, including on travel visas, can be found here.
• Photos, videos and other assets can be found on Trello.
  

About ITU:​

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation for people and the planet with 194 Member States and a membership of over 1,000 companies, universities, civil society, and international and regional organizations. Established in 1865, ITU coordinates the global use of the radio spectrum and satellite orbits, establishes international technology standards, drives universal connectivity and digital services, and is helping to make sure everyone benefits from sustainable digital transformation, including the most remote communities. From artificial intelligence (AI) to quantum, from satellites and submarine cables to advanced mobile and wireless broadband networks, ITU is committed to connecting the world and beyond. Learn more: www.itu.int ​