Connecting the unconnected | Secretary-General of the ITU Doreen Bogdan-Martin

For nearly 160 years, the International Telecommunication Union has helped the world communicate across borders, from the telegraph to the telephone, television, satellite, the internet, and now AI. In this episode of Tools and Weapons, Microsoft's Vice Chair and President Brad Smith sit down with Doreen Bogdan, Secretary-General of the ITU, to discuss why connectivity remains one of the world’s most important foundations for opportunity. The conversation explores the 2.2 billion people who are still unconnected, the estimated $2.8 trillion needed to connect the world by 2030, and the partnerships required to reach the hardest-to-connect communities. Doreen shares stories from the field, including a refugee camp in Chad where a small computer center gives people access to learning, health care, financial tools, and family connections. Brad and Doreen also discuss the rise of AI for Good, the challenge of scaling solutions that address real-world needs, and the role of global cooperation in shaping responsible AI governance. From early warning systems that can help save lives during natural disasters to digital skilling and infrastructure investment, this episode examines how technology can create opportunity when access, trust, and partnership come together. Listen to the full episode and join the conversation about building a more connected and inclusive digital future. Chapters 00:00 — What the ITU does and why it matters 01:15 — Why global standards power everyday tech 04:23 — Doreen’s journey to leading the ITU 07:16 — What it means to be disconnected 10:42 — The cost of connecting the world 16:50 — Scaling AI solutions that actually work 21:02 — The hard questions in AI governance 26:01 — What keeps her optimistic 30:36 — Why engaging young people matters 33:04 — Closing thoughts: the future of technology and connection