WRC votes to allow elimination of mandatory Morse

In 2003, the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) in Geneva voted to allow International Telecommunication Union (ITU) member countries to eliminate the mandatory Morse code proficiency requirement for amateur radio licensing. This decision marked a significant shift in the regulatory landscape of amateur radio, recognizing the evolution of communication technologies and the reduced reliance on Morse code. As a result, many countries, including the United States, subsequently removed the Morse code requirement, making it easier for a broader range of individuals to obtain amateur radio licenses. This change contributed to a surge in new amateur radio operators, fostering greater inclusivity and diversity within the hobby and encouraging the exploration of modern digital communication methods alongside traditional modes.