Global leaders to tackle digital divide for 2.6bn unconnected at WTDC-25
Global leaders in information and communication technologies will convene at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), to address the pressing challenge of connecting the 2.6 billion people worldwide who remain offline.
Organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan, the conference, scheduled to take place from November 17-28 in Baku, Azerbaijan, aims to create a roadmap for universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity to bridge the global digital divide.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU secretary-general, in a press statement, said for the 2.6 billion unconnected, digital development is more than a technical challenge.
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“It is a test of our collective commitment to an inclusive, sustainable digital future for all. WTDC-25 is our moment to transform that commitment into action so that everyone, everywhere can benefit from technology,” Bogdan-Martin averred.
The conference, held every four years, will prioritise the digital development needs of least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS), where connectivity remains a significant hurdle.
According to ITU estimates, only about one-third of populations in LDCs and LLDCs are online, underscoring the urgency of targeted action. Under the theme “Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future,” WTDC-25 will see ITU Member States set priorities for the ITU’s Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D) for 2026-2029.
These priorities will focus on fostering socio-economic development through technology, with an emphasis on resilient infrastructure, innovation, and inclusivity.
“Sustainable digital transformation calls for bold, human-centred action coupled with investment in resilient infrastructure, innovation and inclusiveness. WTDC-25 is our chance to define the next steps together with our members and partners to bridge the multiple digital divides to make meaningful connectivity a reality for everyone,” said Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, director of ITU’s telecommunication development bureau.
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Azerbaijan’s role as host highlights its growing leadership in digital transformation. Hosting WTDC-25 in Baku, the first in the Commonwealth of Independent States, is an honour and a historic vote of confidence from the ITU, forged over three decades of partnership since 1992. Providing the venue for this important conference underscores Azerbaijan’s rising leadership in meaningful connectivity and sustainable digital transformation, and our determination to shape the future of global telecommunications and digital inclusion,” said Rashad Nabiyev, Azerbaijan’s minister of Digital Development and Transport.
As the 2030 deadline for global development goals approaches, WTDC-25 will reaffirm the critical role of digital technologies in advancing well-being, protecting the planet, and boosting prosperity for all. The conference is poised to deliver actionable solutions to ensure no one is left behind in the digital age.
