The ITU, which was initially established in 1865 to oversee the first global telegraph networks, currently plays a significant part in promoting the use of radio, satellite, and the internet. By 139 votes to 25, Ms. Bogdan-Martin defeated Rashid Ismailov of Russia. When her tenure officially starts on January 1, 2023, the American will replace Houlin Zhao, who has held the position since 2014.
She will be taking the reins of the oldest UN agency, which is responsible for many facets of international communications. These include assigning satellite orbits globally, co-ordinating technical standards, and improving infrastructure in the developing world.
There had been concerns ahead of the election because Ms Bogdan-Martin’s opponent had previously called for international regulation of the internet.
“Whether it’s today’s children or our children’s children, we need to provide them with a strong and stable foundation for growth,” Ms Bogdan-Martin said following her win.
“The world is facing significant challenges – escalating conflicts, a climate crisis, food security, gender inequalities, and 2.7 billion people with no access to the internet.”
She said she believes the ITU has an opportunity to help many of these issues.
In her previous role as director of the ITU’s Telecommunication Development bureau, Ms Bogdan-Martin’s remit included job creation, digital skills development, diversity, and gender equality.
Her candidacy for the top job was endorsed by US President Joe Biden, who said she had the “integrity, experience, and vision necessary to transform the digital landscape”.
“She understands the importance of connecting every school to the internet and making sure every student can access virtual learning, providing women and girls the digital tools they need to succeed, and extending the benefits of online health and educational resources,” he said in a statement.
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