The Fifth Global Standards Symposium (GSS-24) concluded recently in New Delhi, marking a significant event in the Asia-Pacific region.
Overview of the Symposium
- It is organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and hosted by the Department of Telecommunications, this symposium attracted over 1,500 policymakers, innovators, and experts worldwide.
- The focus was on the role of international standards in advancing emerging digital technologies and fostering sustainable development.
- The outcome document of the symposium lays the foundation for discussion at the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-24), which is set to take place from October 15-24, 2024, also in New Delhi.
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Key Themes and Discussions
- International Standard: The symposium emphasised that international standards are not merely technical guidelines but moral compasses that guide societal progress.
International Telecommunication Union
- ITU is a specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies (ICT).
- Established in 1865, ITU is one of the oldest international organisations.
- Its primary functions include:
- Setting global standards for telecommunications and ICT to ensure seamless communication across countries.
- Allocating radio frequencies and managing the global satellite orbits.
- Fostering international cooperation in the development and expansion of telecommunications infrastructure.
- Promoting access to ICTs in developing countries to bridge the digital divide.
- Headquarter: Geneva, Switzerland.
- ITU’s Members: Governments, private sector entities, and academic institutions from across the world. There are currently 194 member states of the ITU.
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- The need for standards to be inclusive and reflective of diverse regional needs, especially encouraging participation from developing countries was also highlighted.
- Digital Transformation: Critical role of international standards as a foundation for global digital transformation. The necessity for a cohesive approach to govern emerging technologies was a focal point, stressing collaboration among nations.
- AI and Emerging Technologies: AI Standards summit illustrated how consensus-based standards could catalyse innovation across various sectors.
- There was a significant emphasis on establishing robust international standards for AI governance and addressing the implications of AI and the Metaverse in public services.
- Bridging the Standards Gap: Participants discussed strategies to bridge the gap in standards between developed and developing nations, ensuring equitable access to technology.
- This aspect is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) globally.
- High-Level Dialogues: Facilitated discussions on the future of innovation and digital infrastructure.
- Empowering Open Source: Recognized the importance of open-source software in fostering innovation.
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| World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly
The WTSA is a key event organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), held every four years.
WTSA primary function is to:
- Review ITU’s telecommunication standardisation work and set the strategic direction for future activities.
- Develop global standards (known as ITU-T Recommendations) to ensure the interoperability and efficiency of global telecommunication networks.
- Address emerging technological trends, such as 5G, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
- Elect leadership for the ITU-T study groups and define the working methods of the Standardization Sector.
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ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024
- The ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 will be hosted in New Delhi, coinciding with GSS-24.
- This pivotal event will bring together over 3,000 industry leaders and policymakers to shape the future of global telecommunications standards.
- It will focus on next-generation technologies such as 6G, AI, and cybersecurity.
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India Mobile Congress 2024
- The 8th edition of India Mobile Congress 2024 will showcase India’s innovation ecosystem.
- Theme: “The Future is now”.
- This event will feature over 400 exhibitors and 900 startups, highlighting advancements in various technologies, including quantum technology, IoT, and green tech.
- India Mobile Congress is Asia’s largest digital technology forum.
- It has become a well-known platform across the globe for showcasing innovative solutions, services and state-of-the-art use cases for industry, government, academics, startups and other key stakeholders in the technology and telecom ecosystem.
15 Oct 2024
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