Web Meeting: Launch of the WHO-ITU Global standard for safe listening in video gameplay and esports

21 May 2025 12:00 – 13:15 CET
Online (Zoom)

 

Why this matters 

With over 3 billion people worldwide engaging in video gameplay and esports, sound is at the heart of the experience. But the intense, prolonged exposure to high-volume audio poses serious risks to hearing health – especially for frequent players and professional competitors. 
 
To address this growing concern, the World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and industry collaborators, has developed a landmark global standard – the WHO-ITU Global standard for safe listening in video gameplay and esports – a first-of-its-kind standard to help integrate safe listening features into video gameplay devices and video game software titles, protecting users while maintaining their experience. 

About the event 

Join us for the official launch of the Global standard, where we’ll: 

  • Introduce the standard and how it was developed 
  • Highlight practical guidance for manufacturers, developers, and regulators 
  • Discuss the impact of loud audio on hearing health 
  • Engage with industry voices and the global video gameplay community 

Agenda 

  • Panel discussion: industry and stakeholder perspectives
  • Implementing the standard
  • Interactive Q&A and discussion
  • Close 

Who should attend? 

This session is open to all. We especially welcome: 

  • Audiologists and hearing health professionals 
  • Researchers in video gameplay and public health 
  • Developers and tech manufacturers 
  • Esports organizations and streamers 
  • Government and regulatory agencies 
  • Concerned video game players and community members 

Cost 

Participation is free of charge.

For questions or to express interest, please contact mls@who.int