New york: On World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, marked on 17 May 2026, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the global community acknowledged digital technologies as crucial links connecting people to safety, services, and one another.
According to Emirates News Agency, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the critical role of digital networks in disaster situations, stating that they facilitate early warnings, support first responders, and ensure the continuity of essential services such as healthcare and education. He also highlighted the importance of these networks being trustworthy, secure, and universally accessible, noting the challenges posed by the digital divide, disinformation, and cyber threats.
Guterres called for increased investment in digital connectivity, ranging from seabed cables to satellite technology, and stressed the need for local access and the development of digital skills. He underscored the importance of implementing the Global Digital Compact and promoting rights-based AI governance, as well as enhancing cooperation among governments, industry, and civil society.
He described digital infrastructure as an essential public good, urging the international community to build systems resilient to future crises. Guterres concluded by stating that universal and secure digital lifelines would enable communities worldwide to better prepare, respond to, and recover from emergencies.