World Telecommunication Day 2024: Date, History, Significance And More

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is celebrated on May 17. This day is an opportunity to spread awareness regarding the potential and use of the Internet and other communication technologies. Digital innovations can help bridge the gap between people across the world and encourage sustainable growth. 

According to the United Nations, 2.6 billion people are yet not connected due to digital gaps. Several countries struggle to pace themselves in today’s digital landscape due to lack of investments, lacunae in policy , and inadequate digital skills.

Here is all you need to know about this day:

This day is observed on May 17 every year to connect countries digitally and through different telecommunication sources to enable growth. 

This day is celebrated to mark the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865. This day was observed for the first time on May 17, 1969. 

It was during the World Summit in November 2005 that the UN General Assembly declared this day as World Information Society Day to concentrate on the significance of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). This day helps to explore limitations and a wide range of issues around telecommunication and ICTs. 

"From fighting climate change to eliminating hunger and poverty, digital technologies can help achieve 70% of targets under the UN Sustainable Development Goals," the UN stated.

This day is a reminder that more progress is required for people across the world to take advantage of digital technologies. This year, a virtual tour has been organised on May 17 to bring together digital experts and innovators to celebrate this day. The discussion among experts will be streamlined live on ITU TV studio. This discussion can help people understand the significance of digital innovation and how it can strengthen sustainable growth.