By:
Robert Kwaku Annor
The
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council has approved a proposal to
initiate the development of a detailed plan for establishing an ITU Area Office
in the Pacific, marking a significant step toward expanding the organisation’s
regional presence.
The
decision was taken during the 2026 ITU Council meeting and is aimed at
enhancing technical assistance and deepening engagement with Pacific Small
Island Developing States (PSIDS). The planned office is expected to support
more locally grounded digital development initiatives and improve the delivery
of targeted programmes and services across the region.
The
move aligns with commitments outlined in the World Telecommunication
Development Conference (WTDC) Resolution 94 and the Lagatoi Declaration, both
of which call for strengthened institutional support and capacity-building for
the Pacific.
Officials
indicated that the establishment of an area office will enable the ITU to
provide more direct, on-the-ground support to countries in the region,
particularly in advancing connectivity, digital transformation, and inclusive
access to telecommunications services.
The
initiative is part of broader efforts by the ITU to bridge the digital divide
and ensure that underserved regions benefit from global digital development
programmes, with a focus on connecting unserved populations and accelerating
technological adoption in island economies.
