World Radio Day 2025 is an occasion to celebrate the enduring influence of radio in shaping communication, entertainment, and global awareness. As one of the most powerful and accessible forms of mass media, radio has been a reliable source of information for over a century. Observed annually on February 13, World Radio Day was established by UNESCO in 2011 and later adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 as an International Day.
This day serves as a global platform to promote freedom of expression, media pluralism, and international collaboration among broadcasters. It also reinforces the importance of radio in providing information, especially during crises and emergencies.
World Radio Day 2025: Theme
The theme for World Radio Day 2025 is “Radio and Climate Change”, highlighting radio’s role in raising awareness about environmental challenges. As climate change becomes a pressing global concern, radio remains a powerful medium for educating the public, amplifying climate activism, and promoting sustainable practices.
This year’s theme encourages radio broadcasters worldwide to focus on:
- Disseminating accurate climate-related information.
- Amplifying voices advocating for sustainability.
- Encouraging eco-friendly practices through engaging content.
World Radio Day 2025: History
Radio technology has been in use since the late 19th century, evolving into a crucial tool for communication and entertainment. Although radio broadcasting in India began in the early 20th century, it took time to gain widespread popularity.
Recognizing radio’s impact, UNESCO declared World Radio Day in 2011, and the United Nations General Assembly officially endorsed it in 2012. The first celebration took place on February 13, 2012, to coincide with the anniversary of United Nations Radio, which was established in 1946.
Since then, February 13 has been dedicated to celebrating radio’s role in connecting communities, ensuring freedom of expression, and serving as a critical source of information during emergencies.
World Radio Day 2025: Significance
Despite the rise of television, digital platforms, and smartphones, radio continues to be a resilient and influential medium. It plays a vital role in:
- Providing real-time information—especially in remote areas and crisis situations.
- Fostering community engagement through local and community radio stations.
- Bridging cultural divides by promoting diverse perspectives and languages.
- Serving as an educational tool, particularly in rural regions.
- Being an affordable and accessible medium for millions worldwide.
Radio remains a lifeline during natural disasters, ensuring timely updates even when other communication channels fail. It also promotes public service broadcasting, giving voice to underrepresented communities.
World Radio Day 2025: Interesting Facts
- Guglielmo Marconi sent the first successful radio transmission in 1895.
- India’s radio broadcasting history dates back to the early 1920s.
- The Radio Club of Bombay conducted India’s first radio broadcast in June 1923.
- All India Radio (AIR) aired its first-ever news bulletin on January 19, 1936.
- Akashvani, India’s first radio station, later became the on-air name of All India Radio (AIR) in 1957.
Summing Up
As the world commemorates World Radio Day 2025, it’s a moment to acknowledge radio’s indispensable role in shaping public discourse, promoting inclusivity, and driving social change. Whether it’s delivering news, preserving cultures, or advocating for a greener planet, radio continues to be a timeless medium that informs, entertains, and connects people across the globe.
On this World Radio Day, tune in, stay informed, and celebrate the power of radio!