Join GSMA External Affairs at MWC Barcelona 2025

Join GSMA External Affairs at MWC Barcelona 2025 to explore how the mobile industry is shaping a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive future. Our mission is to drive impactful policy discussions, industry collaboration, and regulatory frameworks that enable digital innovation and economic growth. Our sessions bring together global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to address critical topics such as climate action, sustainability, responsible AI, and the future of connectivity.

Bookmark GSMA External Affairs sessions and stay updated on the latest developments.

Knowledge Zone Activities

Rethinking Mobile Devices: How to cash in on circular business models

Date: Monday, 3 March

Time: 15:30 – 16:30 CET
Location: CC8.16, GSMA Knowledge Zone, Hall 8.1 – 4YFN

With over 30 billion mobile phones sold since 2000 and 1.2 billion new smartphones hitting the market in 2024 alone, the environmental impact of mobile device production is undeniable, generating over 60 million tonnes of CO2e annually.

As consumers hold onto their devices longer and regulations push for more durable, repairable designs, the shift to a circular economy presents a major opportunity. This session will provide valuable insights from industry leaders on evolving consumer behaviours, regulatory changes, and new business opportunities in circularity—offering practical strategies to stay ahead in a rapidly changing mobile landscape.

ESG & Business: Driving Synergies for Sustainable Impact

Date: Wednesday, 5 March

Time: 12:00 – 13:00 CET
Location: CC8.16, GSMA Knowledge Zone, Hall 8.1 – 4YFN

As businesses face growing pressure to meet ESG commitments, integrating sustainability into core strategies is becoming essential for long-term success. Leading mobile operators are demonstrating that aligning ESG initiatives with business goals can drive profitability, innovation, and positive societal impact.

This session will explore how companies can balance financial performance with ESG priorities, address key challenges like climate action and governance, and collaborate with stakeholders to accelerate progress.

GSMA Ministerial Programme Activities

In AI We Trust?

Date: Monday, 3 March

Time: 12:00 – 13:15 CET

Location: CC5 Ministerial Stage, Hall Upper Walkway

Building Ethical Intelligence

Date: Tuesday, 4 March

Time: 10:00 – 10:45 CET

Location: CC5 Focus Stage, Hall Upper Walkway

AI and Innovation for Climate Action: Where Do Opportunities Lie?

Date: Wednesday, 5 March

Time: 10:00 – 11:15 CET

Location: CC5 Ministerial Stage, Hall Upper Walk

External Affairs at the GSMA Pavilion

Location: Hall 4, Stand 4F30

This year at the GSMA Pavilion, let us take you on a journey through the emotional landscape that lies behind the numbers. 

For MWC25 Barcelona, the Connectivity for Good team brings you an unforgettable interactive experience. Using film, soundbites and storytelling, we highlight the best of our research, insights and data, and reveal the transformative impact of connectivity on people all over the globe. 

Sustainability, climate, AI, emerging technologies, digital and financial inclusion, policy, regulation and spectrum – come and visit us to explore the key topics and initiatives shaping our industry.