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ITU global symposium examines how digital transformation is extending regulatory frontiers

Innovative policy and regulatory measures needed to respond to the evolving digital ecosystem




Geneva, 09 July 2018

The ITU Global Symposium for Regulators 2018 (GSR‐18) —the world's eminent gathering of the global ICT regulatory community—takes place from 9 to 12 July in Geneva, Switzerland.

Under the theme "New Regulatory Frontiers", the programme includes compelling discussions and debates on how today's digital transformation is impacting all aspects of our daily lives and extending regulatory frontiers.

"Over the years the Global Symposium for Regulators has provided regulators and policy-makers with a unique platform to share views on how policy and regulations can be used to unleash the opportunities brought about by new technologies and business models," says Houlin Zhao, ITU Secretary-General. "Regulators are the lighthouse guiding us to growth, development and sustainability."

GSR-18 brings together policy-makers, regulators and businesses from around the world to collaborate and define innovative regulatory responses that drive real changes in people's lives.

"Today's digital transformation is bringing important changes for all: with emerging technologies, ICTs increasingly power and enable the global economy," says Sorin Grindeanu, Chair of GSR-18. "Now, more than ever, we need to come together for an open dialogue to develop new and innovative approaches to implement effective collaborative regulation—not only among ICT policy-makers and regulators, but also across sectors."


Topics to be discussed at GSR-18 include:
  • Emerging technologies for digital transformation;
  • Artificial intelligence for development;
  • New regulatory frontiers;
  • Digital identity across different platforms;
  • The protection of personal data in a smart data-driven economy;
  • New sustainable investment models.

"Regulation is the invisible interface that facilitates the interplay between investors, service and content providers and consumers, and creates a wealth of opportunities for all," says Brahima Sanou, Director of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau. "Regulators need to create the foundation upon which digital transformation can achieve its full potential."

A thematic "Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things and Cybersecurity – Policy and regulatory challenges and opportunities,” will be held on 9 July.

During GSR-18, the latest issue of the publication AI for Development Series will be launched. The series aims to deepen the understanding, and promote further discussion and collaboration among policy-makers and regulators on the significance of artificial intelligence and the policy and regulatory aspects that are beginning to emerge from its development.

For more information, visit the GSR-18 website at www.itu.int/gsr18

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