Radio, an affordable medium particularly effective in reaching isolated communities and at-risk populations, has provided a platform for engaging in public discourse for over a hundred years. Regardless of individuals’ educational backgrounds, it remains vital for emergency communication and disaster response.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) states that radio has surpassed the 100-year mark, making this a notable event to celebrate the medium’s wide-ranging benefits and enduring strength as it encounters challenges to its audience and revenue from digital platforms, social media, generational and digital divides, censorship, consolidations, and economic struggles.
World Radio Day 2025: Date
World Radio Day is celebrated each year on February 13, 2024.
World Radio Day 2025: History
It is widely accepted that Guglielmo Marconi conducted the first radio transmission in 1895, and radio broadcasting of music and discussions intended for a broader audience began to emerge, although on an experimental basis, approximately between 1905 and 1906.
Old Radio | Pinterest
World Radio Day 2025: UN’s Role
The commercial radio appeared in the early 1920s, and by the 1950s, radio stations became widespread. In 2011, UNESCO declared February 13 as World Radio Day, which was subsequently approved by the UN General Assembly in 2013. Acknowledged worldwide, radio acts as an essential platform, promoting varied voices and representation.
Radio news ad | Pinterest
The day was suggested by Spain and endorsed by the Executive Board of UNESCO. The Director-General of UNESCO proposed the establishment of United Nations Radio on February 13, 1946, which ultimately resulted in the official acknowledgment of World Radio Day in 2013.
Radio Jockey going on air in 90s | Pinterest
World Radio Day 2025: Significance
As stated by the United Nations, World Radio Day aims to enhance public and media awareness about the significance of radio.
The day also seeks to motivate radio stations to offer information access via their medium and boost networking and global collaboration among broadcasters.
