International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for matters related to information and communication technologies. Founded in 1865 and headquartered in Geneva, it is one of the oldest international organisations and has membership comprising states alongside private-sector and academic members. The ITU coordinates the global use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits, develops technical standards to ensure networks and devices interconnect, and works to expand access to communication technologies, particularly in underserved regions. It publishes widely cited statistics on global connectivity and internet usage. Its mandate is coordination and standard-setting; it does not operate telecommunications networks or regulate national markets directly.