What is Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT)

The Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) is an intergovernmental organization established in February 1979 to promote the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) across the Asia-Pacific region. It was founded through joint initiatives by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Current Membership

APT comprises:

• 38 Member Countries
• 4 Associate Members
• Over 140 Affiliate Members (including private companies and academic institutions engaged in ICT-related activities)

Key Functions and Activities

APT focuses on advancing telecommunications services and information infrastructure throughout the region. It plays a crucial role in aligning and harmonizing ICT-related policies, regulations, and technical standards. Here are its main functions:

1. Coordination and Standardization:

• APT facilitates the harmonization of policies and standards to ensure uniformity and cooperation across the ICT sector in the Asia-Pacific region.

1. International Preparatory Activities:

• The organization conducts various preparatory activities for international conferences, such as:
  • ITU Plenipotentiary Conference (PP)
  • World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs)
  • World Telecommunication Standardization Assemblies (WTSAs)
  • World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)
  • World Telecommunication Development Conferences (WTDCs)

1. Specialized Working Groups and Forums:

• APT organizes working groups and forums to address issues like spectrum management, ICT policy, and standardization. These platforms help in facilitating discussions and solutions among stakeholders.

1. Capacity Building and Pilot Projects:

• The organization conducts capacity-building programs to enhance ICT skills and knowledge in the region.
• It also implements pilot projects to drive ICT development and adoption.

Sub-Regional Engagement

APT provides sub-regional platforms to address shared interests and goals. One notable example is the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC), which organizes working groups on:

• Policy and Regulation
• Spectrum Management

South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC)

SATRC meetings are held annually, bringing together the heads of telecommunications regulatory bodies from nine South Asian nations: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. These meetings are crucial for:

• Discussing and coordinating regulatory and ICT-related issues.
• Harmonizing regulatory frameworks to support regional ICT growth.

Additionally, SATRC’s affiliate members, including industry stakeholders, actively participate in these activities, contributing to a comprehensive dialogue on regional ICT challenges and opportunities.