Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Audrey Azoulay, has announced that this year’s World Radio Day highlights radio’s vital role in addressing and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
In a statement to RCV News in Lusaka, Ms. Azoulay cited a UNESCO report revealing 749 attacks, including 44 killings, against journalists covering environmental issues from 2009 to 2023.
She emphasized that World Radio Day (WRD) is a time to celebrate radio as an enduring, accessible medium, while advocating for journalists’ safety and freedom, especially when reporting on climate issues.
Ms. Azoulay stressed the public’s right to reliable information, warning that misinformation remains a major barrier to climate action.
“On this World Radio Day, we honor and protect radio’s unique role in addressing the climate crisis, recognizing the critical work of radio journalists,” stated Ms. Azoulay.
World Radio Day, observed annually on February 13th, carries the theme “Radio and Climate Change” this year, highlighting radio’s impact in spreading climate information, amplifying voices for sustainability, and promoting eco-friendly practices.
By Betty Kakoma
