World Celebrates Radio Day Today

Today marks a time where people around the world celebrate radio and how it shapes their lives.

Radio informs, transforms and unites people. It brings together people and communities from all backgrounds to foster positive dialogue for change.

More specifically, radio is the perfect medium to counter the appeals for violence and the spread of conflict, especially in regions potentially more exposed to such realities.

The United Nations General Assembly formally endorsed UNESCO’s proclaimed on November 3, 2011 by UNESCO’s 36th General Conference after originally being proposed by the Kingdom of Spain.

During its 67th Session, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 13 February, the day United Nations Radio was established in 1946, as World Radio Day.

The objectives of the Day are to raise greater awareness among the public and the media of the importance of radio; to encourage decision makers to establish and provide access to information through radio; as well as to enhance networking and international cooperation among broadcasters.

Broadcasts that provide a platform for dialogue and democratic debate over issues, such as migration or violence against women, can help to raise awareness among listeners and inspire understanding for new perspectives in paving the way for positive action.

Radio programming can also build tolerance and surpass the differences separating groups by uniting them under common goals and causes, like ensuring education for one’s children or addressing local health concerns.

This year’s theme focuses on Dialogue, Tolerance and Peace. The UN entreats all to join this World Radio Day 2019 to celebrate the impact of radio in pursuing of a more peaceful and tolerant world.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres spoke a few words on this occasion that aims to celebrate the world’s third largest medium.

He said: “Even in today’s world of digital communication; radio reaches more people than any other medium platform. It conveys vital information and raises awareness of important issues. It is a personal interactive platform where people can air their views, concerns, and grievances.

Radio can create a community. For the United Nations especially or as a peacekeeping operation, radio is a vital way of informing, reuniting and empowering people affected by war. On this World Radio Day, let us recognize the power of radio to promote dialogue tolerance and peace.”