May 17th marks the annual celebration of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD). The day recognizes the importance of communication and technology in today’s world, and promotes initiatives aimed at advancing technology for the benefit of all members of society.

The theme of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2023 is “Empowering the least developed countries through information and communication technologies.”

WTISD serves as a reminder of the need to bridge the digital divide, which still exists in many parts of the world. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the organization behind the establishment of WTISD, is leading the effort to connect people worldwide, particularly those in rural and remote areas, to the internet and other digital technologies.

The ITU’s Connect 2030 Agenda aims to ensure that all people have access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable internet and digital technologies by the year 2030. The agenda focuses on five key areas: infrastructure, affordability, skills, content and services, and enabling environment. The ITU has partnered with governments, the private sector, and civil society to achieve these goals.

WTISD is an opportunity for governments, organizations, and individuals to showcase their achievements in the field of communication and technology. It is also a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences to advance the goals of digital transformation and bridge the digital divide.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital technology in today’s world, but it has also underscored the need for greater investment in digital infrastructure. Governments around the world are recognizing this need and are investing heavily in digital transformation initiatives. For example, the European Union has launched its Digital Single Market initiative, aimed at creating a single digital market across Europe.