International
Telecommunication
Union
Key facts
- The ITU is a multilateral and specialised agency of the UN whose role is to set and regulate standards related to telecommunications. It comprises 194 Member States and more than 1000 non-government sector members.
- Its work covers three sectors: Radiocommunication (ITU-R) deals with global radio spectrum and satellite orbits; Standardisation (ITU-T) develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies connect seamlessly; Development (ITU-D) works to improve access to digital technologies in underserved communities worldwide.
- Over the past decade, the ITU has taken on a larger role in Internet and digital governance, for example by implementing some of the WSIS Action Lines. This can be controversial because the ITU is a multilateral process where only States have decision-making power, risking conflict with the multistakeholder approach to Internet governance if the ITU does not engage meaningfully with non-governmental actors.
Related events
Event link: https://sdg.iisd.org/events/ai-for-good-global-summit-2025/
Event link: https://apt.int/Event_list
Event link: https://www.cept.org/com-itu/groups/com-itu/client/meeting-calendar/event-details?meetingid=4667
Why it matters
The ITU’s most significant role is to develop influential and consensus-based standards for telecommunication in each of the sectors under its mandate. These standards also shape national, regional and international policies and regulation.
ITU-T develops the standards that ensure networks and technologies connect seamlessly and influence global regulations, with regional groups which ensure standards reflect regional needs.
ITU-R develops technical input for ITU decisions, producing standards, reports, and handbooks on various policy issues, from spectrum monitoring to radiocommunications for disaster relief.
ITU-D supports digital transformation and works to close the digital divide, prioritising Global Majority countries and marginalised communities. Its Study Groups share strategies and build consensus on ICT priorities.
How it works
The quadrennial Plenipotentiary (Plenipot) conference is the highest decision-making body where ITU Member States make binding decisions shaping the next four years’ work, update texts like the Constitution and Convention, adopt resolutions on policy issues, and elect the ITU Council.
The ITU Council guides the work of the union, approves its budget and controls its finances, and acts as an administrative body in the period between Plenipots.
However, much of the work happens in Sector Conferences and Study Groups, which take place between Pleinpots but are shaped by the resolutions and agreements reached at the Plenipot.
Decision-making at ITU conferences and meetings is reserved for governments who are allowed to vote. Non-governmental actors can join as fee-paying ‘sector’ or ‘associate’ members or as academic members.
Membership fees and other restrictions make it challenging for civil society to participate. However, some ITU events allow for broader participation.
How to engage
Engage in the upcoming Plenipot (PP-26), taking place in Doha, Qatar (9 – 27 November, 2026). Civil society engagement is particularly key for Plenipots and coordination is vital.
Join national delegations to shape individual country positions and ITU outcomes. This requires building strong relationships with national policymakers and delegations first.