World Radio Day: ‘AI is a Tool, not a Voice’

Today is the World Radio Day. The day is being observed in several countries across the globe today with diverse programmes on the participation of radio, communication experts and broadcasters.

The theme of World Radio Day 2026 — “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice” underscores the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in the broadcasting ecosystem.

Proclaimed in 2011 by UNESCO Member States and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, World Radio Day is celebrated every February 13.

It is a Day to thank broadcasters for the news they deliver, the voices they amplify and the stories they share.

The World Radio Day was first celebrated in 2012 under the leadership of UNESCO. It was initiated in commemoration of the day in 1946 when the United Nations Radio was established.

UNESCO has stated that educational content is presented to audiences across all five continents through ‘digital’ broadcasting.

According to UNESCO, the purpose of this day is to raise public awareness about the importance of radio as a communication medium, ensure access to information for decision-makers, encourage the use of radio, and strengthen international cooperation among broadcasters worldwide.

Radio is regarded as a powerful medium for celebrating the diversity of human society.

It is established as an important platform for democratic dialogue. Radio remains the most listened-to medium worldwide.

Its unique capability to reach a wide audience makes radio a public forum that fosters the perception of diversity in society, provides opportunities for all voices to speak, be represented, and be heard.

UNESCO has emphasized that radio ‘stations’ should serve diverse communities by offering various programmes, perspectives and content, and should also reflect audience diversity in their structure and operation.

In a message issued on the same occasion, UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enani emphasized that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) should be for the public good, stating that radio must work to provide information honestly and support communities with empathy.

UNESCO has indicated that on the occasion of World Radio Day, various radio stations and broadcasters will conduct special programmes, forums, competitions, story collections, and public awareness activities. (RSS)