The History and Significance of World Radio Day

Since its invention over a century ago, radio has remained one of the most trusted and accessible forms of communication worldwide. Unlike fleeting digital platforms, radio has continuously adapted while maintaining its core purpose: to inform, educate, and connect people. Recognizing its enduring impact, UNESCO proclaimed World Radio Day in 2011, officially adopted by the United Nations in 2012. Every year on February 13, broadcasters, journalists, and listeners come together to honor the medium’s role in society.

From emergency broadcasts to cultural programming, radio remains a lifeline for millions, reaching remote communities, amplifying voices, and serving as an essential tool for democracy, education, and crisis response.

2025 Theme: Radio and Climate Change

This year’s World Radio Day theme—Radio and Climate Change—underscores the urgency of environmental action and the role radio plays in the global response. As the effects of climate change intensify, reliable communication becomes even more critical.

According to UNESCO, 2025 marks a pivotal year. If humanity is to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement, greenhouse gas emissions must peak this year before beginning to decline. Achieving this requires a broad coalition of governments, scientists, activists, and, crucially, journalists who can bring the climate crisis to the public’s attention with urgency and accuracy.

Radio has a unique ability to reach people in ways that other media cannot. From indigenous communities in the Amazon to farmers in sub-Saharan Africa, radio informs those most affected by climate change, helping them adapt and prepare. Community broadcasters worldwide report on climate solutions, highlight environmental injustices, and hold policymakers accountable.

UNESCO’s Support for Radio’s Mission

UNESCO has long championed the role of radio in disseminating fact-based information on pressing global issues. The organization supports training programs for journalists in environmental reporting, disaster preparedness, and scientific literacy, ensuring that communities receive accurate and actionable climate information.

From its initiatives to combat misinformation to its promotion of media diversity and access to information, UNESCO recognizes radio as an essential tool in fighting climate change. Stations worldwide are encouraged to broadcast special programs on climate resilience, collaborate with scientists, and engage local communities in climate action discussions.

The Impact of Radio Around the World

Across the globe, community radio stations are leading climate conversations:

Radio Galkayo in Somalia helps rural farmers adapt to changing weather patterns by providing real-time climate updates and sustainable agriculture tips.
Radio Balafon in Cameroon broadcasts educational segments on deforestation and conservation, inspiring young listeners to take action.
PBS Radio in the Philippines partners with disaster response teams to provide life-saving updates during typhoons and floods.
KSVY Sonoma 91.3 FM, right here in California, amplifies voices on the frontlines of climate action, supporting local sustainability initiatives and global climate conversations.

“On the Way to COP30” – KSVY’s Year-Long Climate Journalism Initiative

As part of this year’s World Radio Day celebration, Ronny Joe Grooms is launching “On the Way to COP30”, a dedicated reporting series leading up to COP30 in November 2025 in Brazil. This ongoing coverage will:

Provide updates on key climate policies and international negotiations.
Feature interviews with scientists, policymakers, and activists
Explore climate impacts and solutions at the local and global levels.
Highlight the role of community radio in climate action

As the world approaches this critical climate milestone, KSVY remains committed to delivering fact-based, community-centered journalism.

How to Support Independent Climate Journalism

Community radio is listener-supported, and KSVY Sonoma 91.3 FM relies on donations to continue broadcasting essential programming. Your tax-deductible contribution helps ensure that climate coverage remains independent, impactful, and accessible.

🌱 Donate today at KSVY.org

📻 Learn more about World Radio Day 2025:

https://www.unesco.org/en/days/world-radio?hub=66636

🌍 Stay informed about COP30 and climate action:

https://unfccc.int/cop30

Radio is more than a medium—it is a movement. Let’s celebrate its power and continue using it as a force for good.