Recognized as the most prestigious awards in the mobile industry, the GLOMO Awards celebrate innovation and social impact across the global digital ecosystem. This year's award, entitled "Keeping the World Connected in Times of Crisis," was presented to Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the ITU, and Kelly T. Clements, Deputy High Commissioner of UNHCR.
Connectivity for Refugees aims to connect 20 million refugees and members of host communities by 2030, addressing critical barriers such as affordability, infrastructure gaps, digital literacy, and the creation of enabling regulatory environments. By mid-2026, the initiative will have reached more than one million forcibly displaced people and their hosts in over 15 countries, with rapid expansion underway despite funding challenges.
Since 2023, UNHCR and ITU have been working closely with governments, private sector partners and local communities in Africa, Asia and the Americas to empower refugees and host populations with access to information, education, livelihoods and essential services.
“When we work together to help refugees access digital communication channels, paths to dignity and hope emerge,” said Bogdan-Martin. “This recognition underscores the power of collaboration to ensure that forcibly displaced people and their host communities are not left behind.”
"Connectivity is a lifeline, not a luxury. For millions of refugees and displaced communities, a mobile signal is not just a phone call; it can mean the difference between life and death, dependence and self-sufficiency," Clements said upon receiving the award.
"We are very grateful for this recognition, which highlights the transformative impact that connectivity has in displacement environments, fostering resilience, dignity and inclusion.".
Translating the transformative spirit of UN80 reform into action, the Connectivity for Refugees initiative is scaling up innovative solutions, supporting policy reforms, and promoting sustainable, community-driven models to expand digital access. UNHCR and ITU express their gratitude to the GSMA and the GLOMO Awards jury for this honor and reaffirm their commitment to accelerating the digital inclusion of refugees and their hosts worldwide. The two agencies call for increased partnerships and funding to sustain the long-term benefits for all.
