International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

The United Nations specialised agency for digital technologies, telecommunications and international radiocommunication coordination.

The International Telecommunication Union allocates international radio-frequency spectrum and coordinates satellite-orbit use, develops technical standards and supports connectivity and capacity building. Its Radiocommunication Sector maintains the Radio Regulations framework used by maritime radio services.

Member-state administrations license stations and enforce national requirements, while the ITU supplies the international treaty and coordination system. It does not directly operate a vessel’s radio service or replace national regulators.