February 13th is World Radio Day, and also the anniversary of CJSF's FM License!

The objectives of the Day will be to raise greater awareness among the public and the media of the importance of radio; to encourage decision makers to establish and provide access to information through radio; as well as to enhance networking and international cooperation among broadcasters.

Radio is the mass media reaching the widest audience in the world. It is also recognized as a powerful communication tool and a low cost medium. Radio is specifically suited to reach remote communities and vulnerable people: the illiterate, the disabled, women, youth and the poor, while offering a platform to intervene in the public debate, irrespective of people’s educational level. Furthermore, radio has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.

There is also a changing face to radio services which, in the present times of media convergence, are taking up new technological forms, such as broadband, mobiles and tablets. However, it is said that up to a billion people still do not have access to radio today.

World Radio Day 2018

UNESCO invites all radio stations and supporting organisations to join us for World Radio Day 2018, a chance to strengthen diversity, peace and development through sports broadcasting.

As we look forward to a year of momentous sporting events, events that have the ability to unite the hearts and minds of people everywhere, we call on all radio stations around the world to showcase the beauty of sports in all of its diversity. Let's celebrate the traditional sports that connect us to our cultural heritage, the grassroots sports that anchor us within our communities, and the inspiring stories that challenge gender stereotypes and covers, equally, both men’s and woman’s sports events.

Themes:

• Diversity in Sports Coverage
• Through the coverage of traditional and grassroots games, radio can reconnect people with their cultural heritage, promoting freedom of expression and diversity through cultural expression.
• Gender Equality in Sports Broadcasting
• Sports coverage is hugely powerful in shaping norms and stereotypes about gender. Radio has the ability to challenge these norms, promoting a balanced coverage of men's and women's sports and a fair portrayal of sportspeople irrespective of gender.
• Peace and Development through Sports Coverage
• Through greater coverage of sports for peace and development initiatives, the universal values of non-violence, solidarity and tolerance are recognized and celebrated.