The GSR is an annual event bringing together heads of national regulatory authorities from both developed and developing countries and has earned a reputation as the global venue for regulators to share their views and experiences as part of the worldwide community of regulators.  The meeting fosters an open dialogue between regulators and key ICT stakeholders: the private sector, investors and consumers.

The third Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR) took place from 7 to 8 December 2002. GSR 2002 was organized by the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) and hosted by the Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA) in Hong Kong, China. It focused on regulating for end-users, especially in achieving universal access. Specifically, GSR 2002 unveiled a series of regulatory models on establishing a fund to jump-start financing for the deployment of basic and advanced communications services in rural and other unserved areas. Participants also discussed means of ensuring that consumers play a more active role in the regulatory process as it is only by focusing on the needs and demands of end-users and consumers that businesses will be able to provide valued services. 

Based on three case studies commissioned by BDT, GSR 2002 offered feedback to regulators from three key stakeholders: the private sector, investors, and consumers. In addition, the meeting highlighted recent regional regulatory initiatives and provided recommendations on the further development of the Global Regulators Exchange (G-REX). The first day of the symposium was open to the private sector. The second day was reserved for regulators and policy-makers, offering them the opportunity to discuss experiences and share their concerns. GSR 2002 was the first paperless ITU meeting, a development welcomed by all participants.