The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is excited to announce the upcoming Radiocommunication Assembly (RA-27) and the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), scheduled to be held in Shanghai, China, from October 11 to November 12, 2027.
Held every four years, the World Radiocommunication Conference serves as a platform for reviewing and revising the ITU Radio Regulations. This international treaty governs the allocation and use of the radio frequency spectrum and associated satellite orbits.
Throughout the four-week conference, ITU Member States are set to evaluate the outcomes of technical studies and make crucial decisions that will influence the future of spectrum utilisation for a diverse array of radiocommunication services and applications. These include mobile communications, satellite services, radiolocation, radio astronomy, and space research related to lunar communications.
“WRC-27 represents a pivotal moment in achieving universal and meaningful connectivity,” stated ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. She emphasised that the conference would be instrumental in making efficient and equitable decisions on the sharing of spectrum and satellite orbital resources, benefiting all of humanity on Earth and in space.
Anticipating over 4,000 delegates, both WRC-27 and RA-27 gatherings will include representation from ITU’s 194 Member States, as well as observers from other United Nations agencies, Regional Telecommunication Organisations, and ITU Radiocommunication Sector Members.
China’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), Li Lecheng, remarked, “As the first nation in the Asia-Pacific region to host the WRC, we are eager for the successful execution of this significant event. We are committed to fulfilling our responsibilities as the host country, providing comprehensive services and support for the conference, and collaborating with all ITU member states to deliver an event characterised by win-win cooperation and positive outcomes. We extend a warm invitation to all delegates and hope they enjoy their time in Shanghai.”
The preparatory process for WRC spans a four-year study cycle, involving in-depth studies and discussions among governments, regulators, equipment manufacturers, telecommunication operators, and industry forums at local, regional, and global levels.
“World Radiocommunication Conferences play a critical role in determining the future of global communications,” noted Mario Maniewicz, Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau. “WRC-27 in Shanghai will steer the development of radiocommunication services on Earth and in space, catering to broadband connectivity, safety of life, and Earth and space observation. This conference is a gathering point for the international community to ensure that spectrum regulations adapt to rapid technological advancements and meet global, regional, and national demands.”
The inclusive and collaborative nature of WRC fosters consensus-building among all parties involved. This approach ensures that the Radio Regulations provide a stable, universally applicable framework, promoting an interference-free environment that enables ongoing investment in radiocommunication services.
