Constitution and Convention of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

General Information

Category

Sub category

Groups

What is it about?

This instrument establishes a binding global framework for international telecommunications and sets forth the structure of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the United Nations located in Geneva, Switzerland. Originally founded in 1865, as the International Telegraph Union, ITU’s main purpose is to coordinate global telecom networks and services with Governments and the private sector.

Why is it relevant?

The ITU establishes equipment and system-operating standards around the world, coordinating and disseminating information required for planning and operating telecommunications services. It also adopts international regulations and treaties for the use of frequency spectrums by satellites or other systems on earth. Moreover, it helps with the development of telecommunications in developing and least developed countries providing for activities such as: e- strategies, human capacity building through training programmes, policy making, connection of rural areas, development of digital technology and formulation of financing strategies.

Additional Information

The Constitution and Convention of the International Telecommunication Union abrogates and replaces the International Telecommunication Convention (Nairobi, 06/11/1982). It was also amended by the Plenipotentiary Conference (Kyoto, 1994) and the Plenipotentionary Conference (Minneapolis, 1998).

Related treaties

Download