World Telecommunication and Information Society Day - 17 May

Tags: Important Days

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on 17 May and is organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

An Overview of the News

• The event was earlier known as World Telecom Day.

• The day emphasises the influence of the Internet and communication technologies.

• It aims to address connectivity challenges in various regions.

• The theme for 2023 is “Enabling the least developed nations through information and communication technologies.”

• The event is held at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland and raises awareness of the role and impact of telecommunications and information technology.

• The day highlights the transformative power of communication tools such as the Internet and mobile networks.

History of World Telecom Day

• It was established on May 17, 1969, and on this day in 1865, the ITU (International Telegraph Union) was established.

• ITU was originally known as International Telegraph Union and later became International Telecommunication Union.

• In 1947, the ITU became a specialised agency of the United Nations and the United Nations General Assembly declared 17 May as World Information Society Day in 2006.

About the International Telegraph Union

Established - 17 May 1865

Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland

Parent Organization - United Nations Economic and Social Council

Secretary General - Doreen Bogdan-Martin