Houlin Zhao
Secretary-General
International Telecommunication Union
I am pleased to present the Global Connectivity Report 2022. The launch of this important publication coincides with the World Telecommunication Development Conference and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the ITU Telecommunication Development Sector in 1992. The conference represents a unique opportunity to take stock of progress, celebrate our achievements, reflect on our shortcomings, and set the digital development agenda for the coming years. It offers a global stage to showcase initiatives and solutions and mobilize resources to implement both ongoing and new initiatives. In this context, the report provides the facts and the evidence that we need.
Over the past three decades, the number of Internet users went from a few million in 1992 to almost five billion in 2021. The ITU family can take pride in having contributed so significantly to this development. Indeed, ever since it was founded in 1865, ITU has enabled connectivity. We manage the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbit resources for the world, develop the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies interconnect seamlessly, and strive to improve access to information and communication technologies to underserved communities worldwide. Every time you go online, make a call, or send an e-mail, you are benefiting from the work of ITU.
However, despite the important progress made, we cannot rest on our laurels. Humanity is facing unprecedented global challenges (including the prospect of its own extinction). In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at its core.
In most areas, progress is either too slow, stalled, or being reversed. We need to step up our efforts in this 2020-2030 Decade of Action to deliver on the SDGs. Connectivity is not a panacea, but an important catalyst, an enabler for every single Goal.
As the Global Connectivity Report 2022 highlights, the potential of the Internet for social and economic good remains largely untapped: one-third of humanity remains offline and many users only enjoy basic connectivity. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased dramatically the cost of digital exclusion. In this Decade of Action, we must achieve universal and meaningful connectivity so that everyone, everywhere can enjoy a safe, satisfying, enriching, productive, and affordable online experience.
I would like to thank the ITU family around the world, including Member States, Sector Members, and the staff, for the relentless efforts in carrying out the ITU mission. Our dedication and commitment to connecting the world are stronger than ever.
