Doha Hosts Global Summit to Forge the Future of Digital Connectivity

The International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26) has commenced in Doha, Qatar, bringing together delegates from 194 member states. The three-week conference, running until November 27 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), aims to shape global connectivity, explore emerging technologies, and define the future of digital cooperation.

Held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the event is a crucial gathering for setting the strategic direction of the UN agency. ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin highlighted the pressing need to bridge the global digital divide, noting that two billion people worldwide still lack internet access. She emphasized that simply expanding network coverage, which already exceeds 90% for 4G, is insufficient. "The 4G network coverage is more than 90%, but we still have 2 billion people offline, and to get those people online, we have to tackle other issues, such as affordability, trust, safety, technical skilling, and beyond," Bogdan-Martin stated, underscoring the ITU's commitment to inclusivity and ensuring "no one is left behind."

The Plenipotentiary Conference, the ITU's highest decision-making body meeting every four years, will see approximately 3,000 participants discuss critical issues such as artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, satellite connectivity, and emergency communications. Delegates will also elect the ITU's leadership for the next four years and finalize strategic and financial plans for 2028-2031.

Qatar's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, affirmed the nation's dedication to international collaboration, viewing the conference as a pivotal opportunity to enhance global connectivity and influence the telecommunications sector's trajectory. The conference, organized by the ITU and hosted by Qatar through the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), operates under the theme "Together for a connected digital future." Additionally, PP-26 is running concurrently with MWC26 Doha, fostering discussions among policymakers and technology leaders on innovation, investment, and telecommunications advancements.