RSGB celebrates 100 years of the IARU

IARU logo 100 years

This year marks 100 years since the formation of the International Amateur Radio Union in Paris. The RSGB is taking part in centenary celebrations to honour the occasion.

IARU Region 1 Interim Meeting

The RSGB is participating in the International Amateur Radio Union Region 1 Interim Meeting taking place in Paris on 24-25 April. The event is of particular historical significance as it coincides with the centenary of the founding of the IARU in 1925, as well as the 75th anniversary of the establishment of IARU Region 1 in 1950. The French host society, the Réseau des Emetteurs Français, is also marking its 100th anniversary.

This year’s meeting in Paris reflects a broader scope than in previous years and, for the first time, includes “Youth Matters” on the agenda. It also covers the usual focus areas of HF, VHF/UHF/Microwave, and Electromagnetic Compatibility. The RSGB has been a key contributor to the meeting, submitting papers that include future options for the 23cm band and the harmonisation and protection of HF bands.

Three delegates from the RSGB are attending the meeting in person, including the newly appointed RSGB President Bob Beebe, GU4YOX. A further eight RSGB representatives are attending remotely. The meeting serves as both a celebration of amateur radio’s rich heritage and a forward-looking forum to address the challenges and opportunities facing the global amateur radio community. You can view meeting documents online.

Read the original 1925 IARU formation announcement

On World Amateur Radio Day, 18 April 2025, we shared a T & R Bulletin from July 1925 that details the original announcement about the IARU’s formation. This unique document has been made publicly available for all radio amateurs to enjoy.

To read it, click on the Bulletin image above, or go to the RSGB RadCom web page, click the image to enter the web app and select RadCom Sample in the main menu.

Watch RSGB archive footage of the IARU 25th Anniversary Congress

The establishment of the IARU Region 1 took place in Paris in 1950. Watch footage from the RSGB archives that was taken for the occasion.

RSGB Contest Club

Throughout April the RSGB Contest Club has been activating special event station GB0IARU. Activators have already made over 20,000 QSOs worldwide.

Full details of how to get involved can be found on the Contest Club web page.