Table of Contents
Every year from 1969, we celebrate World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. This day marks the founding of International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on the 17th of May 1865 . The first International Telegraph Convention was also signed in Paris on 17th of May 1865 . In this article, we will discuss the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2025, May 17.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by UNGA Resolution A/70/1 recognizes that the spread of information and communications technology and global interconnections has high potential to speed up human progress and to bridge the digital divide.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Date 2025: May 17
In this article readers can get a glimpse on
- Purpose of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
- Theme of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
- Background and History of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
History and Objective of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is observed every year on May 17. It commemorates the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on May 17, 1865. The ITU, a specialized agency of the United Nations, plays a key role in regulating global telecommunications and setting international communication standards. Originally known as World Telecommunication Day, it was first celebrated in 1967. In 2006, the name was expanded to include “Information Society” to reflect the growing role of digital technology.
The main objective of WTISD is to raise awareness about the importance of communication and information technologies (ICTs) in today’s world. It emphasizes how these technologies can bridge the digital divide and contribute to social and economic development. The day encourages global efforts to ensure everyone has access to reliable and affordable digital connectivity. It also highlights the role of ICTs in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Overall, WTISD promotes inclusivity, innovation, and cooperation in the global digital space.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day also serves as a platform to discuss challenges in the digital world. Issues like limited internet access, cyber security, and unequal technological advancement are central to its observance. Governments, industries, and communities come together to find solutions that promote digital inclusion. Events, campaigns, and policy discussions held on this day often focus on how to make digital tools accessible for all, especially in underserved regions. It reinforces the idea that communication technology is a fundamental driver of equality and progress.
Over the years, the scope of this day has expanded beyond just telecommunication. With the rise of smartphones, social media, and artificial intelligence, the focus now includes a wide range of digital tools and platforms. It stresses the importance of digital literacy, especially among youth and rural populations. The day also encourages innovation in communication services to meet changing global needs. Ultimately, WTISD reminds us that building a connected society is essential for a sustainable and inclusive future.
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Start Learning!Purpose of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
The objective of celebrating this day is to help increase the awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICT) can bring to society, as well as of ways to overpass the digital divide. The origin of this day dates back to the signing of the First International Telegraph Convention on the 17th of May 1865, which marked the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
UN General Assembly organised the World meeting on the Information Society in November 2005, to proclaim 17 May as World Information Society Day. This day aims to focus on the importance of information and communication technologies. It also focuses on the huge range of issues linked to the Information Society raised by WSIS.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day Theme 2025
The theme for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2025 is “Advancing Digital Gender Equality.” This theme highlights the urgent need to close the gender gap in digital access, skills, and leadership. It emphasizes that women and girls around the world must have equal opportunities to benefit from and contribute to digital transformation. Despite growing global connectivity, significant gender disparities still exist in internet use, digital literacy, and representation in the tech industry.
By focusing on digital gender equality, WTISD 2025 encourages governments, organizations, and communities to take action. It calls for inclusive policies, targeted training, and greater investment in programs that empower women in the digital space. The theme also supports broader efforts to ensure that digital innovation drives social inclusion and sustainable development for all.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day Previous Themes
| Sl.No | Year | Theme |
| 1. | 1969 | The ITU: Get to know the ITU |
| 2. | 1970 | Telecommunications and education |
| 3. | 1971 | Space and telecommunications |
| 4. | 1972 | The world telecommunication network |
| 5. | 1973 | International cooperation in the field of telecommunications |
| 6. | 1974 | Telecommunications and transport |
| 7. | 1975 | Telecommunications and meteorology (ITU / WMO) |
| 8. | 1976 | Telecommunication and the mass media (ITU / UNESCO) |
| 9. | 1977 | Telecommunication and development (ITU / UNDP) |
| 10. | 1978 | Radiocommunications |
| 11. | 1979 | Telecommunications for all |
| 12. | 1980 | Rural telecommunications |
| 13. | 1981 | Telecommunications and health (ITU / WHO) |
| 14. | 1982 | Telecommunications and international cooperation |
| 15. | 1983 | One world, one network |
| 16. | 1984 | Telecommunications: expanding horizons |
| 17. | 1985 | Telecommunications for development |
| 18. | 1986 | Partners in progress: governments, operating entities, manufacturers and users |
| 19. | 1987 | Telecommunications in the service of nations |
| 20. | 1988 | The transfer of technological know-how in the age of electronics |
| 21. | 1989 | International cooperation |
| 22. | 1990 | Telecommunications and industrial development |
| 23. | 1991 | Telecommunications and safety of human life |
| 24. | 1992 | Telecommunications and space: new horizons |
| 25. | 1993 | Telecommunications and human development |
| 26 | 1994 | Telecommunication and culture (ITU / UNESCO) |
| 27. | 1995 | Telecommunications and the environment |
| 28. | 1996 | Telecommunication and sport |
| 29. | 1997 | Telecommunications and humanitarian assistance |
| 30. | 1998 | Trade in telecommunications |
| 31. | 1999 | Electronic commerce |
| 32. | 2000 | Mobile communications |
| 33. | 2001 | The Internet: challenges, opportunities and prospects |
| 34. | 2002 | ICT for all: empowering people to cross the Digital Divide |
| 35. | 2003 | Helping all of the world’s people to communicate |
| 36. | 2004 | ICTs: leading the way to sustainable development |
| 37. | 2005 | Creating an equitable Information Society: Time for Action |
| 38. | 2006 | First World Information Society Day
Promoting global cybersecurity |
| 39. | 2007 | Connecting the young: the opportunities of ICT |
| 40. | 2008 | Connecting persons with disabilities: ICT opportunities for all |
| 41. | 2009 | Protecting children in cyberspace |
| 42. | 2010 | Better city, better life with ICTs |
| 43. | 2011 | Better Life in Rural Communities with ICTs |
| 44. | 2012 | Women and Girls in ICT |
| 45. | 2013 | ICTs and improving road safety |
| 46. | 2014 | Broadband for Sustainable Development |
| 47. | 2015 | Telecommunications and ICTs: Drivers of innovation |
| 48. | 2016 | ICT entrepreneurship for social impact |
| 49. | 2017 | Big Data for Big Impact |
| 50. | 2018 | Enabling the positive use of Artificial Intelligence for All |
| 51. | 2019 | Bridging the standardization gap |
| 52. | 2020 | Connect 2030: ICTs for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) |
| 53. | 2021 | Accelerating digital transformation in challenging times |
| 54. | 2022 | Digital technologies for older persons and healthy ageing |
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Start Learning!World Telecommunication and Information Society Day : Background
World Telecommunication Day
World Telecommunication Day is celebrated every year on 17 May starting from 1969, to commemorate the founding of ITU and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in the year 1865. It was also proclaimed by the Plenipotentiary Conference in Malaga-Torremolinos as Resolution 46 In the year 1973.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
The International Telecommunication Union Plenipotentiary Conference in Antalya, Turkey, took a decision to celebrate both events together on 17 May as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day on November 2006,. This Resolution invites the Member States and zone Members to celebrate the day annually by organizing appropriate national programs with a view to:
- motivating likeness and exchanges of ideas on the theme adopted by the Council
- debating the different aspects of the subject with all partners in society
- formulating a story reflecting national discussions on the issues underlying the theme, to be fed back to International Telecommunication Union and the rest of its membership
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day Quiz 2025
A) Paris
B) Geneva
C) New York
3. How many member states are part of the ITU?
A) 168
B) 178
C) 193
A) India
B) United States
C) China
5.What is the digital divide?
A) Difference in screen sizes
B) Gap between those with and without internet access
C) Difference in device types
A) Creating social networks
B) Regulating international postal services
C) Coordinating radio-frequency use
A) Broadcasting radio
B) Faster and more reliable wireless communication
C) File compression
A) Europe
B) Asia
C) Sub-Saharan Africa
A) 5–14 years
B) 15–24 years
C) 65+ years
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World Telecommunication and Information Society Day Quiz 2025 PDF
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day serves as a vital reminder of the role digital technologies play in shaping our society. It brings global attention to the need for inclusive, accessible, and equitable digital development. From bridging the digital divide to promoting innovation, the day emphasizes that connectivity is a basic necessity in today’s world. It also encourages countries to invest in digital infrastructure and skills for sustainable growth.
As the digital era advances, ensuring no one is left behind becomes even more crucial. WTISD inspires collective efforts to make technology a tool for empowerment, especially for underrepresented communities. It highlights the importance of international cooperation in building a more connected, informed, and inclusive future. Celebrating this day helps drive awareness and action toward digital progress for all.
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Start Learning!Frequently Asked Questions
What is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day?
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is celebrated annually on May 17. It marks the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. The day highlights the importance of communication technologies in social and economic development. It encourages awareness about issues like the digital divide and access to information. The day promotes inclusive and secure digital growth worldwide.
Why is WTISD celebrated on May 17?
May 17 commemorates the establishment of the ITU in 1865. This date marks the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention. ITU later became a specialized agency of the United Nations. The celebration began officially in 1967. It honors the historical and ongoing role of communication technology in global progress.
What is the objective of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day?
The main objective is to raise global awareness about the impact of communication technologies. It promotes efforts to bridge the digital divide between connected and unconnected communities. The day also encourages policies for universal access to information and communication services. It supports innovation in digital infrastructure and connectivity. Overall, it emphasizes inclusive access to digital tools for all.
Who organizes and oversees this day internationally?
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is responsible for organizing this observance. ITU is a United Nations agency that sets global telecom and ICT standards. It works with governments and private sectors to improve digital access. On this day, ITU leads events, releases reports, and encourages action worldwide. Member states also hold national and regional celebrations.
What is the role of the ITU in global telecommunications?
The ITU sets international standards for telecommunications and ICT systems. It manages global radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits. It helps expand access to ICTs in developing countries. The ITU also fosters innovation, digital literacy, and cybersecurity. Its work ensures efficient, secure, and inclusive communication networks.
How is WTISD observed globally?
WTISD is marked by conferences, workshops, campaigns, and awareness programs. Governments, businesses, and NGOs participate in discussions on digital inclusion. Topics often include broadband access, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Schools and universities may also host educational events. The goal is to encourage public and private collaboration for better digital access.
What is the digital divide, and how is it related to WTISD?
The digital divide refers to the gap between those with access to digital technologies and those without. WTISD aims to bring attention to this inequality. Many rural or low-income communities lack internet and communication services. The day encourages action to improve infrastructure and affordability. Bridging the digital divide helps promote equality in education, jobs, and healthcare.
How do information and communication technologies support development?
ICTs enable better communication, education, and healthcare services. They support businesses, create job opportunities, and boost innovation. In agriculture, ICTs help farmers with weather updates and market prices. Governments use digital tools to improve services and transparency. WTISD highlights these benefits and the need to expand them to all.
Who benefits the most from the goals of WTISD?
Underserved communities benefit greatly from WTISD’s goals. This includes rural populations, low-income groups, and marginalized people. Expanding access to digital services helps improve their opportunities. It also empowers them through education, employment, and healthcare tools. Ensuring their inclusion is key to global digital progress.
How can individuals contribute to the goals of WTISD?
Individuals can spread awareness about the importance of digital access. They can support digital literacy initiatives in their communities. People can participate in events, webinars, or campaigns on May 17. Advocating for affordable and inclusive technology policies also helps. Small actions can contribute to a more connected and informed society.
