ASIA-PACIFIC BROADCASTING UNION (ABU)

The Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) is a professional association that brings together non-governmental, non-profit organizations operating in the broadcasting sector. Established in 1964, the Union aims to expand regional cooperation and pursue the shared interests and development goals of its member organizations. As of today, ABU has over 230 member organizations from 65 countries across 8 global regions.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY

The General Assembly, the Union’s highest-level conference, is traditionally held annually in September or October. It serves as a crucial platform for bringing together member organizations to discuss pressing issues in broadcasting and to reach common solutions in areas such as technology, content, and policy. The Assembly’s agenda includes plenary and breakout sessions, with specialized meetings covering sports, news, programming, engineering, strategic planning, and governance. Typically lasting 4–7 days, the Assembly fosters the exchange of experience, content, and innovation among members.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The development of the General Assembly reflects the expanding scope of ABU’s activities and increasing participation by members. From the 1970s, regional radio and television grew rapidly, leading to a rise in membership. Since the 1990s, the adoption of satellite technology has shifted focus to improving technical and program quality and accessibility.

With globalization intensifying from the 2000s, cooperation deepened further. After 2010, traditional broadcasting formats began transforming, bringing new topics to the forefront such as internet-based content and regulation of AI-generated media. Issues like climate change, gender equality, and disaster communication readiness have also been increasingly addressed, contributing to the development of joint policies within the sector.

CURRENT TRENDS

In recent years, the General Assembly has evolved from a space for information exchange to a strategic event that defines the social responsibility and developmental role of the media industry and promotes sustainable cooperation across the region. Its shift to virtual format during the pandemic exemplified flexibility in global event management and prompted ABU to adopt adaptive policies and approaches to new circumstances.

HIGHLIGHTS

Each year, the General Assembly’s theme is aligned with the host country and prevailing global trends. Past themes include:

• “Beyond the Wave” (2012, South Korea)
• “Media for the Future” (2016, Indonesia)
• “Building Trust: Enriching Audience Experience” (2019, Japan)
• “Serving the People: Media’s Role in Times of Crisis” (2022, India)
• “What Comes Next?” (2023, South Korea)

These themes have addressed the future, responsibilities, and directions for innovation in the broadcasting sector.

62ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY – ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIA, 2025

The 62nd General Assembly of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union will be hosted by Mongolian National Public Radio and Television (MNB) from September 11–15, 2025, in Ulaanbaatar. This major regional event for the broadcasting industry is notable for being held in Mongolia for the very first time.

Under the theme “Role of Media in Safeguarding National & Cultural Heritage,” the Assembly is expected to welcome over 400 guests and delegates from around 250 broadcasting organizations representing 67 countries. This presents a strategic opportunity to promote Mongolia to nearly 4 billion global viewers and boost tourism and economic engagement.

The main theme will be closely aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing topics such as climate change, quality education, public health, and strengthening media partnerships. Hosting this high-level meeting will mark a major step forward in MNB’s international engagement and will significantly contribute to shaping the global media landscape.

The total estimated budget for organizing the Assembly is 1.8 billion MNT. In addition to the conference itself, the program will include cultural performances and special events for international guests.

SIGNIFICANCE

Hosting the General Assembly of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union is a valuable opportunity for Mongolia to enhance its international visibility and strengthen its strategic standing. The event goes beyond broadcasting—it is expected to have a broad impact on Mongolia’s economy, culture, tourism, and international relations.

Leaders of global media organizations, professional associations, content creators, and technology partners will visit Mongolia, providing a powerful window for showcasing the country’s culture, identity, and development. As a result, Mongolia will benefit from increased global media exposure, a rise in international tourism, expanded cultural exports, and the formation of new business partnerships.

It will also raise MNB’s international profile and reputation, enhance the organization's professional capacity and networks, and improve the skills and experience of local journalists and media professionals. Furthermore, it will contribute to introducing new trends and technologies to Mongolia, support local innovation, and build the country’s capacity for international collaboration.

Hosting the 62nd General Assembly will also align with Mongolia’s "Three Pillars" foreign policy, promoting regional integration, implementing soft power diplomacy, and ensuring balanced information flows. It will thus hold exceptional significance at the national level.