The Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Tomas Lamanauskas, recently discussed the difficulties facing the information and communication technologies (ICTs) sector and the critical role the ITU plays in resolving them in a keynote speech.
ICT Challenges
As Lamanauskas explained, the ITU is the United Nations’ specialized agency for ICTs, emphasizing the importance of digital technology's continuous advancement. At the center of their mission is the belief that everyone should be connected, which has inspired numerous initiatives and efforts.
The challenges faced by the industry are multifaceted. One of the challenges, according to Lamanauskas, is ensuring that digital technology advances globally. This includes addressing affordability issues, especially in low-income economies where mobile broadband is still less accessible due to economic constraints.
While connectivity is essential, it also raises concerns about sustainability. The growing reliance on energy-intensive technologies endangers the environment. Lamanauskas discussed the importance of resilience in the face of climate change, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort to address global challenges.
Lamanauskas outlined that e-waste generation is expected to double by 2050, necessitating immediate action to address this growing problem.
Despite these difficulties, Lamanauskas reiterated the importance of collaboration. The ITU is actively working to connect the digital world while minimizing its environmental impact through various initiatives. Collaboration with governments, organizations, and industry leaders is critical to achieving these objectives.
Lamanauskas urged the audience to actively participate in rising to these challenges. "We need to work together," he emphasized. The message was clear: only by working together, can the ICT industry lay the groundwork for a connected future that is sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.
