The theme for this World Radio Day (WRD), this Wednesday February 13, is ‘Dialogue, Tolerance and Peace’.

Now in its eighth year, WRD is an annual celebration of radio as a medium which raises awareness about the importance of radio and strengthens the networking among broadcasters.

Hosted by UNESCO, it was first celebrated in 2012, following its declaration by the UNESCO General Conference.

World Radio Day marks a time where people around the world celebrate radio and how it shapes our lives. Radio brings together people and communities from all backgrounds to foster positive dialogue for change. More specifically, radio is the perfect medium to counter the appeals for violence and the spread of conflict, especially in regions potentially more exposed to such realities. 

Previous themes have included Gender Equality, Youth Participation, Radio in Humanitarian and Disaster Situations, and Radio is You.

This year’s theme will have two sub-themes.  

Promoting Dialogue and Participation focuses on broadcasts that provide a platform for dialogue and democratic debate over issues, such as migration or violence against women, which can help to raise awareness among listeners and inspire understanding for new perspectives in paving the way for positive action.

Uniting Under Common Concerns addresses the fact that radio programming can also build tolerance and surpass the differences separating groups by uniting them under common goals and causes, like ensuring education for one’s children or addressing local health concerns.

UNESCO invites all radio stations and supporting organisations to join us for World Radio Day 2019, a chance to strengthen diversity, peace and development through their broadcasting. To submit your own event, go here. 

UNESCO is also offering professionally produced WRD jingles for broadcast by radio stations free of charge here.