It is an observance held annually on February 13 to celebrate radio as a medium.

It was proclaimed on November 3, 2011 by UNESCO’s 36th General Conference after originally being proposed by Spain.

The World Radio Day is been celebrated under the the theme of “Dialogue, Tolerance and Peace” and the power of radio in promoting understanding and strong communities.

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Radio is the mass media reaching the widest audience in the world. It is also recognised as a powerful communication tool and a low-cost medium.

Radio is specifically suited to reach remote communities and vulnerable people: the illiterate, the disabled, women, youth and the poor, while offering a platform to intervene in the public debate, irrespective of people’s educational level. Furthermore, radio has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.

BACKGROUND:

The date of February 13, the day the United Nations radio was established in 1946, was proposed by the director general of UNESCO.

The objectives of the day is 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.

Source:UNESCO