World Telecommunication Day 2026 Observed with Focus on Digital Connectivity

Kathmandu, May 17: Countries around the world are observing World Telecommunication and Information Society Day today with programmes highlighting the importance of digital technology and internet access in modern society.

This year’s theme, “Strengthening Digital Lifelines for a Resilient and Connected World,” focuses on expanding reliable digital connectivity and reducing inequalities in access to information and communication technology (ICT).

The day aims to raise awareness about the role of digital communication in social and economic development. It also highlights the “digital divide,” which refers to the gap between people who have access to digital technologies such as the internet, computers and smartphones and those who do not.

The divide remains more visible in remote and rural areas, where access to internet services, digital education and technological resources is still limited compared to urban centres.

World Telecommunication Day has been observed since 1969 to mark the founding of the International Telecommunication Union and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865.

The day was formally recognised by the ITU’s Plenipotentiary Conference held in Malaga-Torremolinos, Spain, in 1973 through Resolution No. 46. Later, following recommendations made during the World Summit on the Information Society in 2005, the United Nations General Assembly declared May 17 as World Information Society Day.

Since 2006, the day has been celebrated annually to promote awareness about issues related to the information society and the growing importance of information technology worldwide.