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Reports from around the world indicate that radio remains a highly trusted and widely used medium. The theme for the 12th edition of World Radio Day (February 13th) is “Radio and Peace.”
Radio is an effective tool for recognizing and appreciating the variety of humanity and creates a place for open conversation. Across the world, radio is still the most popular form of media. It reaches to a large number of people. What is more, radio have an impact on how diversity is seen in a culture. Radio stations should provide a wide selection of shows, perspectives, and content that is reflective of the different audiences it serves.
Spain proposes to UNESCO to proclaim World Radio Day
At the request of the Spanish Radio Academy on September 20, 2010, Spain proposed that UNESCO’s Executive Board add an agenda item for the proclamation of World Radio Day. UNESCO subsequently conducted a thorough consultation in 2011. It consulted it with stakeholders such as broadcasting organizations, UN organizations, NGOs, foundations, and other agencies. The outcome of this consultation was that the Executive Board included the agenda item in its provisional agenda for the proclamation of World Radio Day on September 29, 2011.
“Radio and Peace”
The theme for the 12th edition of World Radio Day, celebrated on February 13th, is “Radio and Peace.” UNESCO recognizes independent radio as a key tool for preventing conflict and promoting peace.
On World Radio Day 2023, UNESCO highlights independent radio as a pillar for conflict prevention and peacebuilding. An armed conflict between countries or groups within a country may also translate into a conflict of media narratives. The narrative can either increase tensions or maintain conditions for peace. In reporting and informing the general public, radio stations shape public opinion and frame a narrative that can influence domestic and international situations and decision-making processes. Increasing radio's journalistic standards and capacity should be considered as an investment in peace. (un.org)