In broadcasting, some of the most important work happens behind the scenes.

We often talk about the content audiences see and hear, the technology delivering it and the people bringing stories to life. But behind every successful broadcast is something just as fundamental: coordination.

This is where the B26 Global Coordination Conference comes in.

Taking place in Yerevan, Armenia, from 24–28 August 2026, the conference brings together broadcasters and frequency coordination specialists from around the world to address one of the less visible but essential elements of international broadcasting – the effective coordination of shortwave radio frequencies. The conference is jointly organised by the High Frequency Coordination Conference (HFCC), the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) and the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), with the support of its Armenian hosts.

For us, what makes gatherings such as B26 particularly valuable is the opportunity to look beyond individual organisations and consider the broadcasting ecosystem as a whole. As technology continues to evolve and the media landscape becomes increasingly complex, cooperation between broadcasters remains essential, specially for those communities who still rely on shortwave radio, to ensuring that services can reach these audiences effectively and without interference using the limited frequencies available.

The Global Shortwave Coordination Conferences, organised twice every year for the Summer (A) and Winter (B) seasons, also provides an important space for broadcasters to coordinate their requirements and build relationships that extend well beyond the conference itself. It is a reminder that broadcasting may be changing rapidly, but collaboration remains at its core.

As the industry continues to navigate an increasingly connected and competitive media environment, forums that bring broadcasters together to share knowledge and solve practical challenges are more important than ever.

The ABU is pleased to be part of this global shortwave radio community and its conversation, and we look forward to welcoming broadcasters and frequency managers to Yerevan. Registration is now open for the B26 Global Coordination Conference. We encourage ABU members who run shortwave services to join the process from 24–28 August 2026.

Register for B26 Global Coordination Conference: https://events.abu.org.my/eventcalendar/b26-global-coordination-conference/