World Telecommunication Day 2026
World Telecommunication Day is celebrated every year on 17th May. It started with the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on 17 May 1865. Another special event that happened on 17th May was the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in Paris (France).
History of World Telecommunication Day 2026
The first time that the World Telecommunication Day was celebrated was in the year 1969.The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in 2005 requested the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to declare 17th May as World Information Society Day.
The aim was to raise awareness about new technologies and related socio-economic issues. Later, the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in 2006 combined both days and named it as “World Telecommunication and Information Society Day” (WTISD).
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Theme for World Telecommunication Day 2026
The theme for World Telecommunication Day 2025 is “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation”. The theme was chosen to close the gender gap between men and women related to internet use. It calls for action from organisations and governments to provide skills and awareness to women about information communication technology.
Significance of World Telecommunication Day
Its significance lies in its mission to highlight important communication technologies and how they connect people and foster global development.
- It promotes digital inclusion of all regardless of income or gender.
- It helps in achieving sustainable development goals such as quality education, digital healthcare and economy.
- It provides a platform for governments and organisations to raise concerns for issues like cybersecurity.
- Every year it focuses on a topical theme to address challenges with respect to information technologies in every aspect. For example, last year’s theme focused on sustainable development.
Conclusion
In short, 17th May is a reminder of how far we have come in the advancement of digital technologies, mainly communication tech. It is an important channel that keeps the world connected. ICT is now seen as a vital tool for social, economic, and cultural progress aiming for digital inclusion.
FAQs on World Telecommunication Day
- When is World Telecommunication Day observed?
It is celebrated each year on 17th May.
- Why is World Telecommunication Day significant?
It is significant as the World Telecommunication Day marks the founding of the International Telecommunication Union in 1865.
- Who organises the World Telecommunication Day?
The International Telecommunication Union organises the World Telecommunication Day every year.
- Is there a theme each year for World Telecommunication Day?
Yes, every year there is a new topical theme for World Telecommunication Day.
- What is 2026 theme of World Telecommunication Day?
The theme for 2026 World Telecommunication Day is ‘Gender Equality in Digital Transformation’.
- When was first World Telecommunication Day celebrated?
The first World Telecommunication Day was celebrated on 17 May 1969.
- Is World Telecommunication Day and World Information Society Day same?
Yes, both the days were combined in 2006 and are jointly celebrated as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD).
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