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 fourth Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR) took place from 8 to 9 December 2003 in Geneva, Switzerland. GSR 2003 focused on practical tools that regulators can use to increase universal access to ICTs. 

The regulators from more than 80 countries attended this event and included participation by international organizations such as the European Commission, the World Bank and the World Trade Organization, as well as academic and non-governmental organizations. The first day was open to regulators, policy makers, ITU-D Sector Members and other invited guests, and the second one was reserved for regulators and policy makers. 

Participants prepared a blueprint of what should be done to ensure that global access to the tools of communication is extended to all of humanity. Following the meeting, the GSR Universal Access Best Practice Guidelines were delivered to the first World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), which took place in Geneva from 10 to 12 December 2003.