About World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on 17 May, the anniversary of the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. It highlights how the internet and communication technology can improve lives.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day marks the anniversary of the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in Paris on 17 May 1865, which created the International Telecommunication Union. The ITU is now the UN agency for information and communication technologies.
The day brings together two earlier observances, World Telecommunication Day and World Information Society Day. Its aim is to raise awareness of how the internet and other digital technologies can help societies and economies, and of the need to bring those benefits to everyone.
How it is marked
Governments, telecom companies, universities and technology groups hold talks, workshops and events on digital access, online safety and new technologies. Schools and colleges may run sessions on using the internet responsibly or on careers in engineering and technology.
In India, where mobile phones and internet access have spread quickly, it is worth pausing on the day to think about the engineers, technicians and field staff who build and maintain networks, and about helping more people get online safely.
What to write
Thank the people who keep us connected, or share a thought about staying close through technology.
- Thank you to every engineer and technician who keeps our calls clear and our networks running, in every season.
- Our Sunday video calls with Dadi are the best part of the week. Thank you to whoever keeps the network up.
- Proud of you for teaching Nana to pay by phone. He now sends me money for no reason at all.
How to wish someone on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
appreciation for the people and networks that keep us connected, and technology that includes everyone
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day on 17 May?
The first International Telegraph Convention was signed in Paris on 17 May 1865, founding the International Telecommunication Union. The day marks that anniversary.
What is the International Telecommunication Union?
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations agency for information and communication technologies. It coordinates global use of radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops technical standards and works to improve access to technology.
How can students mark World Telecommunication and Information Society Day?
Students can learn how phone calls and messages travel across networks, discuss safe and respectful behaviour online, or help an older relative learn a useful digital skill.
When is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day in 2026?
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2026 falls on Sunday, 17 May 2026.
What is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day?
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on 17 May, the anniversary of the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. It highlights how the internet and communication technology can improve lives.
Is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day?
Focus on appreciation for the people and networks that keep us connected, and technology that includes everyone. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Telecommunication and Information Society Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .