On World Radio Day UN chief underlines importance of the medium
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Photo Credit: Mr. Xaisongkham Indouangchanthy
"Since its invention more than 100 years ago, radio has sparked imagination, opened doors of change and served as a channel for life-saving information", says UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
In his message on World Radio Day, observed on 13 February, the Secretary-General calls for the celebration of the power of radio.
He recalls that as a young boy growing up in a poor village after the Korean War, it was radio that opened his eyes and ears to the world.
"Radio entertains, educates and informs. It promotes democratic expression and influences ideas. From short-wave to FM to satellite transmission – radio connects people wherever they are. In conflict situations and times of crisis, radio is a lifeline for vulnerable communities. Radio is both valuable and cost-effective."
The Secretary-General says that from day one, the United Nations has been using radio to reach the peoples of the world.
UN Radio, he adds, sheds light on all issues on the United Nations agenda, from sustainable development to the protection of children, to peacekeeping and conflict prevention.
Donn Bobb, United Nations.
Duration: 1'14"
