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Doreen Bogdan-Martin has become the first woman to be elected as secretary-general of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The ITU is the main technology agency within the UN.
Originally founded in 1865 to manage the first international telegraph networks, the ITU now has an important role in facilitating the use of radio, satellite and the internet.
Ms Bogdan-Martin beat her Russian rival Rashid Ismailov by 139 votes to 25.
The American will succeed Houlin Zhao, who has been in the role since 2014, when her term begins on 1 January 2023.
Who is Ms Bogdan-Martin?
In her previous role as director of the ITU's Telecommunication Development bureau, Ms Bogdan-Martin's remit included job creation, digital skills development, diversity, and gender equality.
Her candidacy for the top job was endorsed by US President Joe Biden, who said she had the "integrity, experience, and vision necessary to transform the digital landscape".
"She understands the importance of connecting every school to the internet and making sure every student can access virtual learning, providing women and girls the digital tools they need to succeed, and extending the benefits of online health and educational resources," he said in a statement.
The ITU is the main technology agency within the UN.
Originally founded in 1865 to manage the first international telegraph networks, the ITU now has an important role in facilitating the use of radio, satellite and the internet.
Ms Bogdan-Martin beat her Russian rival Rashid Ismailov by 139 votes to 25.
The American will succeed Houlin Zhao, who has been in the role since 2014, when her term begins on 1 January 2023.
Who is Ms Bogdan-Martin?
In her previous role as director of the ITU's Telecommunication Development bureau, Ms Bogdan-Martin's remit included job creation, digital skills development, diversity, and gender equality.
Her candidacy for the top job was endorsed by US President Joe Biden, who said she had the "integrity, experience, and vision necessary to transform the digital landscape".
"She understands the importance of connecting every school to the internet and making sure every student can access virtual learning, providing women and girls the digital tools they need to succeed, and extending the benefits of online health and educational resources," he said in a statement.