World Radio Day 2018 highlights need for gender equality in broadcasting industry

World Radio Day is celebrated around the globe each year on 13 February. It is an opportunity to recognize the important role of radio and those within the radio broadcasting industry.

Radio is still the most dynamic, reactive and engaging medium there is, adapting to 21st century changes and offering new ways to interact and participate, made possible through a ubiquitous wireless world connected by ITU.

The 2018 World Radio Day theme is Sports Broadcasting, which has highlighted the digital gender divide within this information and communication technology (ICT) sector.

UNESCO, a leader on World Radio Day activities, and an official partner of EQUALS, has developed strong campaign resources for highlighting gender equality on World Radio Day. ITU, as a committee member of World Radio Day, and as a founding partner of EQUALS, supports gender equality within Broadcasting, and the reporting by the industry.

Message from Ms Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, on the occasion of World Radio Day and the impact on gender equality:

Learn more about Radio Broadcasting and Gender Equality:

History of World Radio Day

On 14 January 2013, the United Nations General Assembly formally endorsed UNESCO's proclamation of World Radio Day. During its 67th Session, the UN General Assembly endorsed the resolution adopted during the 36th session of the UNESCO General Conference, proclaiming 13 February, the day United Nations Radio was established in 1946, as World Radio Day.