The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) hosted the ITU Regional Development Forum for Europe 2025 last month which was a significant gathering aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration in the digital sector.
A Platform for Meaningful Dialogue
The event was hosted to provide space for a dynamic and insightful discussion on the five Regional Initiatives adopted at the 2022 World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-22) in Kigali. These initiatives focused on connectivity, digital transformation, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, and innovation. Over the past three years, the ITU Office for Europe has collaborated with multiple stakeholders to implement these initiatives, leading to impactful developments in the region.
What was discussed?
The session started with a presentation by Mr. Jaroslaw Ponder, Head of the ITU Office for Europe, who outlined key achievements and challenges encountered during the implementation phase.
The panel discussion brought together a distinguished group of experts including Boris Radanovic (Head of Engagement and Partnerships at SWGfL) each contributing unique perspectives on the implementation and evolution of regional initiatives.
Boris Radanovic said: “SWGfL once more had the opportunity to raise awareness and enter into dialogue with many nation states, on the topic of Child Online Protection. SWGfL has proudly supported the work of ITU Europe, from drafting the COP guidelines to providing assistance and support to countries systematically looking at Child Online Protection on a national level.
It is important that we cast the digital seeds of tomorrow – today, without forgetting that our children will bear the fruits of all of our digital labour, and we must invest more time and effort into child and adult online protection. Our future safety and cyber security depend on higher focus and investments in education and prevention.”
Shaping the Future of ITU Regional Initiatives
As the region prepares for WTDC-25, the discussion focused on identifying key priorities and emerging challenges that could shape the next cycle of Regional Initiatives for Europe.
The session concluded with a presentation by Mohamed Ba, Head of Digital Innovation, BDT, ITU, who introduced the Regional Initiatives Acceleration Framework. This framework aims to drive faster and more effective implementation of digital initiatives, reinforcing ITU’s commitment to advancing digital inclusion and innovation across Europe.
The ITU Regional Development Forum for Europe 2025 was a pivotal event, bringing together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the evolving digital landscape and strategise for a more inclusive and innovative future.
