The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has put the final touches on preparations for the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS 2011). WSIS 2011 will be held in Geneva, Switzerland, from 16th to 20th May, 2011, and will provide structured opportunities to learn, network and participate in multi-stakeholder discussions and consultations on WSIS implementation.

In line with its strategy to support WSIS activities and achieve WSIS objectives prior to 2015, the TRA will sponsor the upcoming WSIS Forum, which builds upon the tradition of annual WSIS May meetings. The forum’s new format is the result of open consultations with all WSIS Stakeholders.

“We have finished our preparations for the WSIS Forum 2011,” said H.E Mohamed Nasser Al Ghanim, TRA Director General. “The UAE National WSIS Committee concluded its report, which will be launched during the event. The Emirati delegation will also perform a workshop on implementing the WSIS Action Lines in the UAE, which will provide an opportunity for all participants to learn and share from our country’s experience implementing WSIS Action Lines.”

The UAE delegation will also conduct another workshop, an interactive session based on the requests received from stakeholders during the open consultation process. The event is an opportunity to meet with other WSIS National Committees and discuss relevant WSIS issues, including recent updates and various challenges that might hinder the implantation of Action Lines. 

“The WSIS Forum is a great platform to showcase practices being followed elsewhere that aid effective deliberation and knowledge dissemination," added Al Ghanim.

Action Line Facilitators from various UN agencies, regional commissions, governments, the private sector, and social organizations will not only report and assess their efforts to achieve WSIS implementation and follow-up, but will also share plans as to how they will achieve the targets set in the WSIS Outcome documents.