World Telecommunication and Information Society Day

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is an annual event that aims to raise awareness of the transformative potential offered by the digital revolution. This day highlights the significance of communication technologies in connecting societies around the world. It is also an opportunity to demonstrate how these technologies can be harnessed to foster development, empower communities, and bridge the digital divide. WTISD strives to encourage international collaboration and to ensure that this potent force reaches those who stand to benefit the most.

The World Telecommunication and Information Society Day has its origins in the World Telecommunication Day, first held on May 17, 1969, to mark the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. In November 2005, the United Nations General Assembly added the Information Society to the moniker, to better reflect the evolving role of telecommunication in modern times. From accessibility to cybersecurity, each year the ITU chooses a theme for the event that draws attention to a pertinent issue that the information society currently faces.

In Australia, and around the world, the Observance of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day takes place annually on the 17th of May. The occasion serves as a touchstone for businesses, policymakers, and citizens to engage with the telecommunication landscape and explore opportunities to harness its power for the greater good.