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The International Telecommunication Union is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for many matters related to information and communication technologies. It was established on 17 May 1865 as the International Telegraph Union. The ITU was initially aimed at helping connect telegraphic networks between countries, with its mandate consistently broadening with the advent of new communications technologies. It adopted its current name in 1932 to reflect its expanded responsibilities over radio and the telephone. On 15 November 1947, the ITU entered into an agreement with the newly created United Nations to become a specialized agency within the UN system, which formally entered into force on 1 January 1949. 	
The ITU promotes the shared global use of the radio spectrum, facilitates international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, assists in developing and coordinating worldwide technical standards, and works to improve telecommunication infrastructure in the developing world. It is also active in the areas of broadband Internet, wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, satellite-based meteorology, TV broadcasting, amateur radio, and next-generation networks. 
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the ITU's global membership includes 193 countries and around 900 businesses, academic institutions, and international and regional organizations. 
The 150th anniversary of the International Telecommunications Union is commemorated by a €2,15 stamp meeting the first step of the Priority Mail rate. The design was issued in sheets of ten stamps. This is the first Vatican City stamp issued to commemorate the ITU. The stamp design is from Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel fresco depicting the Creation of Man, with a telecommunications monitor highlighting the finger of God touching that of Adam. Because digital and modern communications allow content to be instantly available throughout the world, distances are bridged among peoples. In the words of Pope Francis, "those who communicate, in effect, become neighbors" The UFN brochure description states that "when communication and new technologies offer humanity greater possibilities for encounter and solidarity, this is something truly good and a gift from God."

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