The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has officially announced that the Radiocommunication Assembly (RA-27) and the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) will be held in Shanghai, China, from 11 October to 12 November 2027.
Held every four years, the WRC reviews and updates the ITU Radio Regulations, the international treaty governing the use of the radio frequency spectrum and associated satellite orbits. During the four-week conference, ITU Member States will examine technical studies and adopt decisions shaping the future use of spectrum for a wide range of services, including mobile, satellite, radiolocation, radio astronomy, and space research, supporting even lunar communications.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU Secretary-General, stated: “WRC-27 will be a defining moment in making universal, meaningful connectivity a reality. The conference will make critical decisions on sharing spectrum and satellite orbit resources efficiently and equitably, benefiting all of humanity.”
The event is expected to attract over 4,000 delegates, including representatives from ITU’s 194 Member States, sister UN agencies, Regional Telecommunication Organizations, and ITU Radiocommunication Sector Members as observers.
Li Lecheng, China’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology, said: “As the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to host the WRC, China looks forward to a successful event. We will provide full support and services, ensuring a radiocommunication conference that fosters cooperation and delivers fruitful outcomes.”
Preparations for WRC-27 have been underway as part of a four-year study cycle, involving governments, regulators, manufacturers, operators, and industry forums. Mario Maniewicz, Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau, emphasized: “WRC-27 will guide the evolution of radiocommunication services on Earth and in space — for broadband connectivity, safety of life, and space and Earth observation. It ensures that spectrum regulations keep pace with rapid technological innovation.”
The WRC process relies on inclusive, collaborative decision-making, ensuring Radio Regulations remain stable, predictable, and universally applied — supporting an interference-free environment and encouraging investment in radiocommunication services worldwide.
