World Radio Day 2025
World Radio Day, observed every year on February 13th each year, is a UNESCO designated international observance to celebrate and cherish radios.
This day reminds us the role radios played in shaping societies, to inform, entertain, educate the masses and understanding across different communities.
World Radio Day should not be confused with National Radio Day on August 20th.
Background of World Radio Day
The concept of World Radio Day emerged from a proposal in 2010 by the Spanish Radio Academy. On September 20th, 2010, the Academy requested UNESCO to think about declaring a global day dedicated to honoring radio.
The executive board of UNESCO considered the proposal and after receiving support from different international organizations, broadcasting unions and networks, it was approved.
February 13th was chosen as the appropriate day since it marks the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations Radio in 1946, which was a significant milestone in the development of global communication.
UNESCO officially announced February 13th as World Radio Day on November 2011 during its 36th General Conference.
The subsequent year, the United Nations General Assembly approved the commemoration, thereby enhancing the significance of radio as a vital means of communication.
The First World Radio Day
The official celebration of the first World Radio Day happened in 2012 with global events to honor the day. A seminar hosted by Lifeline Energy, SOAS Radio, Frontline SMS, and Empower took place in London that brought together media practitioners, academics, and radio experts.
They discussed the role of radio in reaching remote areas. Additionally, events were held in Italy, Switzerland, and Spain, which focused on the cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and technological advancements of radio.
In Bangladesh, the day was commemorated through the formation of the World Radio Day Observation National Committee, which worked alongside local and national broadcasters to highlight its importance.
Celebrating World Radio Day
World Radio Day is preceded by several events like seminars, public gatherings, conferences, and radio programming- activities that highlight the relevance of radio in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
On this day, people celebrate radio's history and remember how important it is for global communication.
Read National Radio Day next.
