WCIT-12 Overview

The World Conference on International Telecommunications (WCIT) convened in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 3-14 December 2012, is the first ever WCIT in the history of the International Telecommunication Union.

The conference will consider a review (see PP-06 Resolution 146) of the International Telecommunication Regulations (ITRs), which define the general principles for the provision and operation of international telecommunications. Signed by 178 countries,

ITRs are a global treaty applied around the world, which: • Establish general principles relating to the provision and operation of international telecoms; • Facilitate global interconnection and interoperability; • Underpin harmonious development and efficient operation of technical facilities; • Promote efficiency, usefulness, and availability of international telecommunication services, and • Treaty-level provisions are required with respect to international telecommunication networks and services. WCIT-12 presents a key opportunity to increase collaboration between countries, to help countries reach new levels of economic and social development through efficient telecom services, and to make the ITRs more relevant and valuable to ITU members, to help them respond to the challenges of a fast-evolving ICT environment.