World Telecommunication and Information Society Day

The World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is celebrated annually on 17 May since 1969. This Day aims to raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the internet and other information and communication technologies (ICT) can bring to societies and economies, as well as of ways to bridge the digital divide. On this day, we recognise and celebrate the progress made by use of communication and positive exchanges through technology.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by UNGA Resolution A/70/1 recognises that the spread of information and communications technology and global interconnectedness has great potential to accelerate human progress and to bridge the digital divide. The COVID-19 and other unprecedented crisis have highlighted the critical role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for continued functioning of societies and also brought to the fore the startling digital inequalities between and within countries.

Hence, the theme for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2022 is ‘Digital technologies for older persons and healthy ageing’ and it aims to raise awareness of the important role of telecommunications / ICTs in supporting people to stay healthy, connected and independent - physically, emotionally, and financially. Supporting a life of healthy ageing is also critical for the sustainability of economic and health systems. The leading agency at the United Nations, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), hopes to foster initiatives to accelerate digital technologies for older persons and healthy ageing that will contribute towards the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing.

We, at the World Assembly of Youth (WAY), organise year-round events that addresses and tackles youth issues. The use of information technology has become even more important for young people to stay updated, educated, and / or even employed. Hence, it is vital to promote digital equality and achieve sustainable development with the use of advanced technology. We can do so by pushing for governments and other stakeholders for digital transformation by promoting national strategies on ICT development, smart policies to encourage investments, cooperation, and partnership.

We shall continue to act as a platform for young people and youth councils to explore and initiate ways to bridge the digital divide. Now, it is the right time to accelerate digital transformation and advance the goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda in order to be beneficial for all people and leave no one behind.