Global leaders in information and communication technologies are gearing up for a decisive event that could reshape the digital landscape. The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) is set to unfold from November 17 to 28 in Baku, Azerbaijan. This biennial conference, which convenes every four years, is organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan. It aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, and experts, to forge a new roadmap for inclusive digital development.
This year’s conference will place significant emphasis on the issue of connectivity, particularly for the 2.6 billion people around the globe who currently lack Internet access. The theme—“Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future”—recognizes not just the need for technological advancement but also the ethical obligation to ensure that no one is left behind as the world becomes more digitalized. The stark divide in access, especially in the world’s least developed countries, highlights the urgency of the situation. Only about one-third of the populations in these regions are currently online.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU’s Secretary-General, has articulated the moral imperative behind the conference. She describes digital development not merely as a technical challenge but as a litmus test for our collective commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. “For the 2.6 billion unconnected, digital development is more than just a technical challenge,” Bogdan-Martin states. “It’s about crafting a sustainable future that benefits everyone.” The urgency of this call to action will be at the forefront of discussions among global leaders in Baku as they aim to redefine connectivity standards that are universally applicable.
WTDC-25 will serve as a platform for setting priorities in telecommunications and developing comprehensive strategies that aim to revolutionize digital services. The event will draw lessons from past conferences and innovative technologies that have emerged over the years. New solutions will be explored that leverage current advancements in Artificial Intelligence, blockchain, and other emerging technologies, which could radically change the telecommunications landscape. Discussions will address how these technologies can facilitate not only better connectivity but also greater efficiency and security for users in a digitally transforming world.
Azerbaijan’s hosting of the conference marks a historic moment as it will be the first time that WTDC is held in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Rashad Nabiyev, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Digital Development and Transport, views this as a testament to the growing importance of Azerbaijan in global telecommunications. He emphasizes the country’s dedication to meaningful connectivity, sustainable digital transformation, and its strategic role in shaping global telecommunications policy. The event signifies not just a local endeavor but a commitment to address broader global challenges in telecommunication infrastructure.
The conference’s focus on digital development will extend to marginalized nations, specifically targeting the needs of landlocked developing countries and small island developing states. Special sessions will be dedicated to discussing characteristically unique challenges these regions face in their pursuit of connectivity. The lack of physical infrastructure in remote areas, limited financial resources, and often unstable political situations further exacerbate the digital divides. Addressing these issues is not merely a technical challenge; it requires a multifaceted approach that involves international cooperation, partnerships, and investment.
Member States will set the strategic agenda for the next four years for ITU’s Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D). Delegates will adopt regional initiatives and frame pressing questions to guide ITU study groups through the 2026-2029 period. The outcomes of WTDC-25 will influence the allocation of resources and dictate future policy developments in telecommunications, making the participation of member states essential. As decisions are made, the potential for collaborative initiatives to bridge the digital divide will play a crucial role in dictating the future of global connectivity.
Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, has stressed the importance of action grounded in human-centered thinking. Calling for bold investments in resilient infrastructure and inclusivity, Zavazava believes that WTDC-25 provides an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders to come together and rethink how digital transformation strategies can be implemented globally. The need for proactive measures is amplified by the approaching end of the decade, which will serve as both a marker of progress and a reminder of the work that still remains.
While the conference presents an opportunity for ground-breaking discussions on technology and policy, it also serves as a rallying point for activism aimed at closing the digital divides that perpetuate inequality. As technology becomes increasingly intertwined with everyday life, the significance of ensuring equitable access cannot be overstated. Digital access is recognized as a prerequisite for economic growth, social empowerment, and improved well-being, making the conversations at WTDC-25 all the more vital.
As the days draw closer to the conference, an array of press opportunities has been planned to engage media professionals and amplify the messages being conveyed. The opening ceremony on November 17 will kick off the conference, followed by a high-level segment where key figures will deliberate on substantive issues. A press conference on the same day aims to provide the media with critical insights and evolve the dialogue surrounding digital connectivity challenges and solutions.
In preparation for the event, multiple resources are being made available for participants and interested media personnel. Topics will range from media accreditation procedures to practical information on attending the conference, such as travel and visa requirements. Information regarding logistical support will also facilitate better participation from diverse stakeholders worldwide, further enhancing the collective discourse at WTDC-25.
The International Telecommunication Union stands as more than just a facilitator for the conference; it serves as a pivotal driver for global connectivity and innovation. Established in 1865, the ITU acts as a bridge between nations, companies, and civil society to harmonize efforts aimed at uniting the progress of telecommunications and digital technologies. As the world gears up for the pivotal event in Baku, the focus remains firmly on collaborative efforts to define a sustainable and inclusive digital future.
In summary, WTDC-25 is poised to be a watershed moment in the history of telecommunications, with the potential to reshape not just policies but also the lives of billions. The core message resonates: successful digital transformation is contingent on meaningful engagement from all sectors, ensuring that the benefits of technology extend beyond the privileged few to encompass everyone, everywhere.
Subject of Research: Global Connectivity and Digital Development
Article Title: Leaders Gather for WTDC-25 as Global Connectivity Takes Center Stage
News Publication Date: 06 October 2025
Web References: ITU Website
References: ITU Media Centre
Image Credits: © ITU
