Doha, Qatar – The State of Qatar has formally launched its candidacy for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for the 2027-2030 term. The announcement, made during the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) in Baku, Azerbaijan, underscores Qatar’s commitment to global digital development and strengthening its role within the United Nations specialized agency. The ITU Council acts as the governing body of the ITU between Plenipotentiary Conferences.
The delegation representing Qatar at WTDC-25 is led by Eng. Ahmad bin Abdulla AlMuslemani, President of the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) and Chair-Designate of the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26). The conference, ongoing until November 28, 2025, brings together stakeholders to address the evolving landscape of global telecommunications.
Qatar’s Bid for the ITU Council: A Focus on Digital Development
Qatar’s candidacy is strategically built upon three core pillars, according to statements from the CRA. These include affirming access to telecommunications as a fundamental human right, fostering inclusive innovation on a global scale, and advancing universal connectivity through robust and secure infrastructure. The nation aims to contribute significantly to bridging the digital divide and supporting sustainable growth worldwide.
WTDC-25 serves as a crucial platform for evaluating progress and setting strategic direction for the ITU’s Development Sector (ITU-D). Discussions focus on challenges like expanding broadband access, ensuring cybersecurity, and promoting the responsible use of new technologies. Qatar’s presence at the conference highlights its active participation in these international conversations.
Prioritizing Accessibility and Innovation
Eng. AlMuslemani emphasized Qatar’s long-standing partnership with the ITU and its dedication to delivering on commitments. He affirmed the importance of telecommunications as a basic right and the need for innovation to be accessible to all nations. This stance reflects the objectives of Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification and a knowledge-based society.
Qatar is actively positioning itself as a leader in emerging technologies. Investments in areas like 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) demonstrate the country’s forward-thinking approach to telecommunications infrastructure. Notably, Qatar boasts 100% fiber optic broadband coverage and 5G availability in over 96% of populated areas.
Beyond infrastructure, Qatar is focusing on developing Arabic language AI capabilities, recognizing the importance of culturally relevant technology. This commitment aligns with the ITU’s goals of promoting technologies that cater to the unique needs of diverse populations.
Supporting the ITU’s Wider Agenda
The country’s campaign also underscores support for the ITU Development Sector’s broader objectives, which include creating enabling regulatory frameworks and utilizing ICTs for sustainable development. According to the ITU, the Development Sector plays a critical role in assisting developing countries with their telecommunication needs.
Qatar’s participation in WTDC-25 extended beyond formal sessions; the CRA hosted a coffee break and maintained a booth dedicated to showcasing its preparedness to host the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026. This event will be a pivotal moment for setting the ITU’s strategic direction for the next four years.
Looking ahead, the ITU Council election is slated for 2026, as part of the broader Plenipotentiary Conference. The outcome will significantly influence the ITU’s focus and priorities regarding global connectivity and technological advancement. The success of Qatar’s bid hinges on continued engagement with ITU member states and demonstrating a clear vision for inclusive and sustainable digital inclusion. The progress of preparatory work for the 2026 Plenipotentiary Conference will be a key indicator to watch.
