ITU Technologized

Why is WTPF-26 a must-attend event for governments, industry, academia, civil society and the technical community?

In this interview, H.E. Sebastian JD Bastian, Minister of Innovation & National Development of The Bahamas, shares why the World Telecommunication/ICT Policy Forum 2026 (WTPF-26) is so important in our increasingly connect world. Minister Bastian highlights the urgent need for collaboration on the policy challenges and opportunities created by rapidly evolving technologies. He explains how small island developing states experience firsthand the realities of connectivity, resilience, and inclusion, and why their voices are essential in global discussions on emerging technologies. Join us at WTPF-26 in The Bahamas and be part of the conversations shaping our digital future. 

Find out more: https://wtpf.itu.int/2026/

The materials contained on this podcast channel are for information purposes only. ITU expressly disclaims all liability to any person in respect of anything and in respect of the consequences of anything said or omitted to be said wholly or partly in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this podcast channel. ITU is not responsible for any third party content which may be accessed through this podcast channel. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU. ITU holds copyright in the information available on this podcast channel, unless otherwise stated. Copyright in any third-party materials found on this podcast channel must also be respected.

Artificial intelligence is advancing at unprecedented speed — but global governance is still catching up. In this special episode of ITU Technologized, we explore the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, taking place 6–7 July in Geneva, a landmark moment for international cooperation on artificial intelligence.

H.E. Ms. Griselda López, Permanent Representative of El Salvador to the United Nations and H.E. Mr. Rein Tammsaar, former Permanent Representative of Estonia to the United Nations, the two Co‑Chairs of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, join ITU’s Maximillian Jacobson‑Gonzalez, to discuss why this dialogue is happening now, how it supports implementation of the Global Digital Compact agreed at the 2024 Summit of the Future, and what meaningful, action‑oriented outcomes countries and stakeholders expect.

The Global Dialogue on AI Governance 6–7 July Geneva, Switzerland Alongside the AI for Good Global Summit and the WSIS Forum at Palexpo, Geneva

Learn more about ITU: https://www.itu.int
and The Global Dialogue on AI Governance: https://www.un.org/global-dialogue-ai-governance/en

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe for more conversations on the technologies, policies and partnerships shaping our global digital future. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU.

Unlock the ideas, technologies, and global cooperation shaping our digital future in this special episode of ITU Technologized. Today we sit down with Preetam Maloor and Gretchen Bueermann from ITU’s Emerging Technologies Division to explore the major themes of the upcoming World Telecommunication/ICT Policy Forum (WTPF‑26), taking place 9–11 June 2026 in Nassau, Bahamas.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The urgent need to bridge widening digital divides
• How space connectivity and direct‑to‑device satellite tech are transforming access
• The importance of resilient digital infrastructure for all countries
• The role of green digital transformation in a climate‑challenged world
• Why ICT‑centric innovation ecosystems are essential for economic growth
• How consensus‑based opinions shape international digital policy

WTPF‑26 is a unique, multi‑stakeholder platform where governments, industry, researchers, and civil society come together to build shared understanding before formal policy processes begin. 

Learn more about WTPF‑26: https://wtpf.itu.int/2026/

Subscribe to ITU Technologized for more conversations on technology, innovation, and the digital future.

#WTPF26 #ITU #DigitalFuture #EmergingTech #DigitalInclusion #SpaceConnectivity #GreenDigital #ICTInnovation #TechPolicy #digitaltransformation 

ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU.

In this special episode of Technologized, Philippa Biggs sits down with Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, UNESCO’s Assistant Director‑General for Communication and Information, to explore the State of Broadband 2025 and the future of digital governance. Dr. Jelassi shares insights on:

-15 years of the Broadband Commission and its impact on global digital development

• The leap from 2 billion to 6+ billion internet users and what it means for inclusion
• The value of a public–private, multi‑stakeholder platform for shaping digital policy
• Why the State of Broadband Report is unique, diverse, and globally influential
• AI, data governance, —and UNESCO’s global framework for responsible data use
• Addressing misinformation, harmful content, and risks in the digital space
• UNESCO’s pioneering work on the Ethics of AI, adopted by 193 member states, now implemented by 80+ countries
• How AI is forcing a transformation in education, journalism, and media worldwide
• How to explain complex technologies like AI, neurotech, and quantum tech to general audiences

From global governance to real‑world examples, Dr. Jelassi reveals how digital transformation is reshaping society—and how ethical frameworks can ensure technology remains a force for good. 

👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more deep‑dives into technology shaping our world.

🔗 Learn more at itu.int and broadbandcommission.org.

#TechnologizedPodcast #UNESCO #AIethics #DigitalGovernance #StateOfBroadband #BroadbandCommission #DigitalInclusion #ArtificialIntelligence #DataGovernance #EthicalAI #DigitalTransformation
ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU.

In this special episode of Technologized, Philippa Biggs speaks with Lacina Koné, Director‑General and CEO of Smart Africa, about the State of Broadband in Africa 2025 report. Together, they explore the realities, progress, and challenges of digital transformation across Africa — from broadband expansion to AI‑driven innovation.

Lacina Koné shares insights on:

• Africa’s digital transformation and why connectivity is the backbone of inclusive growth 
• The Broadband Commission’s impact, from affordability to closing the gender digital divide
• The importance of African‑led narratives, data, and policymaking in broadband development
• How broadband is reshaping agriculture, healthcare, fintech, education, and public services
• The role of AI as an equalizer, enabling inclusion across Africa’s 2,000+ languages
• Why technology is a vital career path for African youth and women, and how Smart Africa supports it 
• Smart Africa’s mission to harmonize digital policies and build a single African digital market

From affordability barriers to usage gaps, from indigenous language AI to the future of digital public infrastructure, this episode dives deep into how Africa is shaping — and being shaped by — broadband and next‑generation technologies.

👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more deep‑dives into technology shaping our world.

Find out more about the report here: https://www.broadbandcommission.org/publication/state-of-broadband-in-africa/




#TechnologizedPodcast #StateOfBroadband #BroadbandInAfrica #SmartAfrica #DigitalTransformationAfrica #AfricaConnectivity #AIinAfrica #DigitalInclusion #BroadbandCommission #LacinaKone #TechForDevelopment

In this special episode of Technologized, ITU's Philippa Biggs speaks with Donna Bethea-Murphy, Senior Vice President of Global Regulatory and Technology Policy at Viasat, and long‑time contributor to the Broadband Commission. Together, they explore: - The State of Broadband Report — its evolution, achievements, and global impact - The rise of satellite broadband and why we may be living through a “second space race” - How the Broadband Commission brings together industry, governments, and civil society - The challenges of communicating complex space technologies to general audiences - The role of satellites in sustainability, disaster warning, connectivity for remote areas, and more - Why space engineering remains an exciting and meaningful career path -The importance of equity in space and ensuring the benefits of the space economy are shared globally Donna also shares stories from her career, insights on explaining complicated science simply, and advice for young people—especially women—entering STEM and space engineering. If you’re interested in space technology, digital inclusion, broadband policy, or the future of global connectivity, this episode is for you. 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe, for more deep‑dives into technology shaping our world. #TechnologizedPodcast #SatelliteBroadband #BroadbandCommission #SpaceTechnology #SatelliteInternet #STEMCareers #DigitalInclusion #Viasat #SpaceEngineering #ConnectivityForAll #StateOfBroadband

The Connecting Humanity Blueprint analyses the gaps behind the digital divide—spanning infrastructure, affordability, skills, and policy—to estimate that achieving universal, meaningful connectivity will require $2.6 to $2.8 trillion in investment, including $1.5 to $1.7 trillion for infrastructure and nearly $1 trillion to improve affordability. In this edition of ITU Technologized, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin discusses the human side of those numbers and shares how the report can be put into practice in country-level planning to accelerate digital progress for the one-third of humanity currently offline. Interviewer: Maximillian Jacobson-Gonzalez For further information please visit: http://www.itu.int

In this episode of ITU Tech Monthly, we explore the transformative Smart Villages and Smart Islands Initiative with Ashish Narayan, Program Coordinator at ITU’s Asia and Pacific Regional Office. 🌍 From remote islands in Vanuatu to rural villages in Pakistan, discover how communities are leapfrogging into the digital future through: - Broadband connectivity and affordable digital services - Community-driven innovation and digital skills training - Real-world success stories in e-education, e-health, and mobile payments - Multi-stakeholder collaboration for scalable, sustainable impact 💡 Learn how technology is being used to empower women, youth, and vulnerable populations—and why smart solutions must be locally driven and globally supported. Find out more about the Smart Villages and Smart Islands Initiative: https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/ICT-Applications/Pages/Initiatives/ASP/Smart-Islands/Smart-Islands-Initiative.aspx 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more insights from the world of digital technologies. 🔗 Learn more about ITU: www.itu.int 🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms. #digitalinclusion #SmartVillages #SmartIslands #digitaltransformation ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 Member States and a membership of some 900 private sector entities and academic institutions. Established over 150 years ago in 1865, ITU is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world. The materials contained on this podcast channel are for information purposes only. ITU expressly disclaims all liability to any person in respect of anything and in respect of the consequences of anything said or omitted to be said wholly or partly in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this podcast channel. ITU is not responsible for any third party content which may be accessed through this podcast channel. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU. ITU holds copyright in the information available on this podcast channel, unless otherwise stated. Copyright in any third-party materials found on this podcast channel must also be respected.

In this episode we are joined by Ahmed Elraghy, Head of Regulatory and Market Environment Division in the Telecommunication Development Bureau at ITU, to explore the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR 25), taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 🎯 Key topics include: - The evolving role of regulators in the digital age - How GSR fosters global collaboration and regulatory harmonization - The impact of transformative technologies like AI and big data - Agile and data-driven regulation for sustainable digital transformation - The 2025 theme: Regulation for sustainable digital development GSR 25 is a blueprint for inclusive, forward-thinking regulation in a rapidly changing tech landscape. 🔗 Learn more: www.itu.int/GSR25 📌 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how technology is driving progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. ITU is the leading United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation together with 194 Member States and a membership of some 900 private sector entities and academic institutions. Established over 160 years ago in 1865, ITU is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world. The materials contained on this podcast channel are for information purposes only. ITU expressly disclaims all liability to any person in respect of anything and in respect of the consequences of anything said or omitted to be said wholly or partly in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this podcast channel. ITU is not responsible for any third party content which may be accessed through this podcast channel. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU. ITU holds copyright in the information available on this podcast channel, unless otherwise stated. Copyright in any third-party materials found on this podcast channel must also be respected.

In this inaugural episode of Tech for Sustainable Development, host Max Jacobson-Gonzalez sits down with Dr. Cosmas Zavazava, Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, to explore the vision and global momentum behind the upcoming World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) 2025, taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan. 🎯 Key topics include: - The mission to connect the remaining 2.6 billion people offline - What “meaningful connectivity” really means - Cybersecurity and child online protection - Digital transformation and regulatory innovation - Bridging the digital divide and empowering marginalized communities - The role of international cooperation and resource mobilization 🌍 WTDC 2025 is more than a conference—it's a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable digital development. Tune in to learn how global collaboration is shaping a connected future for all. 🔗 Learn more: www.itu.int/WTDC25 📌 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how technology is driving progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 Member States and a membership of some 900 private sector entities and academic institutions. Established over 150 years ago in 1865, ITU is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world. The materials contained on this podcast channel are for information purposes only. ITU expressly disclaims all liability to any person in respect of anything and in respect of the consequences of anything said or omitted to be said wholly or partly in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this podcast channel. ITU is not responsible for any third party content which may be accessed through this podcast channel. ITU interviews and soundbites may be edited for content and duration. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the ITU. ITU holds copyright in the information available on this podcast channel, unless otherwise stated. Copyright in any third-party materials found on this podcast channel must also be respected.