Insights from the 89th IEC General Meeting in New Delhi
Over 2,000 experts from 100+ countries gathered at the 89th IEC General Meeting in New Delhi to advance global electrotechnical standards. Representing New Zealand were Camilla Ojansivu and Peter Berry of the IEC NZ National Committee.
Camilla Ojansivu and Peter Berry at the IEC General Meeting in New Delhi, India.
The 89th International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) General Meeting, held in New Delhi, India, in September, brought together over 2,000 experts from over 100 countries to advance global electrotechnical standards under the theme “Fostering a Sustainable World.” Representing New Zealand were Camilla Ojansivu, Senior Advisor International Engagement and IEC NZ National Committee Secretary, and Peter Berry, IEC NZ National Committee President.
Driving sustainability through standards
The week’s discussions focused on how international standards can accelerate the transition to clean energy, smart infrastructure, and circular economies. Delegates emphasised the critical role of collaboration in tackling climate challenges, with strong support for renewable energy and eco-design principles. The IEC reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a sustainable, all-electric, and connected future through inclusive and forward-looking standardisation.
SMART standards and digital transformation
A key theme was the IEC’s strategic push toward SMART standards - digitalised, interoperable standards designed for seamless integration into modern workflows. These standards are transforming how industries access and apply technical content, improving efficiency and compliance.
The IEC showcased its Online Standards Development platform and White Label app, which allow organisations to embed IEC content directly into their branded environments. In a significant move, ISO and IEC announced the formation of a joint Single Delivery Unit (SDU) to lead the global development and deployment of SMART standards. Through close collaboration with the IEC Secretariat in Geneva, Standards New Zealand is among the first 20 IEC member countries trialing the White Label application, currently in its alpha testing phase.
Strengthening governance and innovation
Governance and strategic planning were also in focus. The IEC Board reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive decision-making, while tools like Monday.com and the Standards Information Model (SIM) are being integrated to enhance digital workflows. A new Joint Strategic Committee (JSC) was launched to coordinate content creation, with a joint SMB-TMB meeting planned to align efforts across IEC and ISO.
The General Assembly on 19 September highlighted pivotal changes in IEC’s strategic direction, including the launch of a Joint Advisory Committee on Digital Content Management and a Joint SMB/TMB Task Force on AI. These initiatives aim to strengthen governance around AI, infrastructure resilience, and product lifecycle sustainability.
Peter and Camilla undertake their member voting duties during the AGM.
Global engagement and youth leadership
The IEC continues to expand its global reach through initiatives like IEC Connect, designed to improve community engagement, and the Global Relevance Toolbox (GRT), which supports international applicability. Programs such as “A Day in Her Shoes” and the Young Professionals (YP) initiative are helping build leadership and awareness among emerging experts.
Youth engagement was a standout topic, with this year’s YPs proposing innovations like the SMART Future Lab and alumni mentorship programs. Country experiences from Peru, Timor Leste, Fiji, and Cambodia highlighted diverse journeys toward full IEC membership, while discussions around fee structures and participation barriers underscored the need for more inclusive pathways.
Looking ahead
The IEC’s involvement in the upcoming AI Summit in Seoul and COP30 reflects its commitment to ethical technology use and global collaboration. Outgoing President Jo Cops reflected on the organisation’s transformation from 2018 to 2024, while incoming President Jim Matthews called for energized leadership and a unified vision to guide IEC into its next phase.
New Zealand’s active participation continues to position us as a forward-thinking contributor to international standardisation. As the IEC evolves, our engagement ensures that Kiwi perspectives help shape the standards that support a sustainable, digital, and inclusive future.