World Radio Day

World Radio Day History

World Radio Day is dedicated to recognizing the role of radio in fostering communication, promoting understanding and strengthening ties within communities. An initiative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the observance stresses the importance of radio in advancing social development and democracy, particularly in remote areas with restricted access to digital media. In emphasis of radio's value, World Radio Day also aims at encouraging media entities and community groups to create and disseminate diverse and innovative radio content that addresses critical contemporary issues.

The origins of World Radio Day date back to 2011 when it was first proclaimed by the Member States of UNESCO and later endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012. The significance of World Radio Day in South Africa lies in radio's historical function as a powerful medium for promoting liberation struggle messages, shaping public discourse and empowering marginalised communities during the apartheid era. Today, radio remains essential in South Africa, catalysing healthy dialogues on national issues such as racial equality, socio-economic development, and the preservation of indigenous languages and cultures.

In South Africa, World Radio Day is commemorated primarily through special broadcasts and thematic programmes dedicated to highlighting the importance and impact of radio. Radio stations, from community-based to national platforms, engage in a range of activities designed to promote radio as a tool for fostering social cohesion and democratic participation. Observing World Radio Day thus helps showcase radio's enduring significance and potency in shaping South Africa's socio-political landscape. World Radio Day unfolds annually on the 13th of February, marking the establishment of the United Nations Radio in 1946.

Facts about World Radio Day

• The theme for World Radio Day in 2024 was Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating. In 2023, the theme was Radio and Peace.
• The Radio was invented by an Italian named Guglielmo Marconi in 1895. It was originally called the wireless telegraph and used radio waves to transmit Morse code.
• According to the Pew Research Center, in 2023, the United States had the highest number of broadcasting radio stations with over 24,000 stations.
• During apartheid, South Africa saw the emergence of resistance radio stations, such as Radio Freedom and Capital Radio 604, which served as essential platforms for the dissemination of information and inspiration to those fighting for change.
• Nelson Mandela's first public speech after his release from prison in 1990 was broadcast live on radio. Radio played an integral part in spreading Mandela's message of hope and unity to South Africans.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for World Radio Day

Top things to do in South Africa for World Radio Day

• Learn Morse Code. The radio was originally invented to pass on Morse code message through radio waves.
• Learn about some of the issues surrounding freedom of speech and government control of radios around the world. Read up on recent problems in Zimbabwe and Somalia regarding government control.
• Plan a Radio Day event involving important issues such as human rights, freedom of speech and international broadcasting. Let UNESCO know what you have planned for World Radio Day and they will put it on their world map so that others can find you and get involved!
• Attend Workshops, Seminars, and Conferences: These are conducted on the role of radio in the modern world, a popular choice of academic institutions, NGOs, and community radio networks.
• "Voices that Care" event: This is an annual Red Cross Children's Hospital Radiothon, where radio personalities broadcast live from the hospital, raising funds for much needed medical equipment.