UNESCO World Radio Day is a global celebration of radio and its profound impact on society. As a medium, radio informs, educates, and unites people across cultures and geographies. It fosters dialogue, promotes inclusivity, and amplifies marginalized voices.
Recognizing the critical role of radio, UNESCO designated February 13 as World Radio Day to promote international cooperation among radio broadcasters and encourage decision-makers to enhance access to information through this medium.
Theme for World Radio Day 2025: “Radio and Climate Change”
The 2025 edition of World Radio Day is particularly significant, as it focuses on climate change, a defining issue of our time. According to the Paris Agreement, signed in 2016, global greenhouse gas emissions must peak by 2025 if the world is to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
As one of the most accessible and trusted media platforms, radio plays a crucial role in climate education, awareness, and advocacy. It enables communities, especially those in rural and vulnerable regions, to understand climate challenges and adopt sustainable practices.
The Role of Radio in Climate Action
Quality radio broadcasting is essential for:
Disseminating accurate climate information free from political and corporate influence.
Shaping public perceptions by providing factual reports on climate change.
Encouraging proactive measures to mitigate environmental hazards.
Holding governments and industries accountable for climate policies and actions.
However, financial constraints—caused by reduced advertising revenue and public funding—have forced many radio stations to cut staff and rely on limited sources of information. This poses a risk to the quality and independence of climate reporting.
Challenges Facing Climate Journalism
Radio stations must prioritize verified sources when reporting on climate change. The spread of misinformation and disinformation—especially through social media—has made it difficult for audiences to differentiate between scientific facts and misleading narratives.
Journalists covering climate change also face increasing threats. Over the past 15 years, 44 journalists have been killed, while 749 attacks on media professionals have been recorded in 59 countries. Reports indicate that:
70% of journalists covering climate issues have been threatened or pressured.
60% have faced online harassment.
41% have been physically assaulted.
25% have faced legal intimidation.
75% reported mental health impacts due to their work.
These statistics highlight the urgent need to protect climate journalists, ensuring their safety and editorial independence.
Local Radio: A Powerful Tool for Climate Awareness
Local radio stations are uniquely positioned to engage communities in climate conversations. They provide:
Localized reports on climate impacts, such as changing weather patterns, crop failures, and environmental hazards.
Disaster preparedness information, especially in areas prone to floods, droughts, and extreme heat.
Platform for indigenous voices, allowing communities with firsthand experience of climate change to share knowledge and solutions.
A vivid example is the Premium Times report on January 12, 2025, which highlighted the devastation of Taraba yam farmers due to heatwaves. The report explained how excessive heat stunts plant growth, causes dehydration, and reduces agricultural yields. Such stories, when amplified through radio, can lead to policy changes and improved support for affected farmers.
Case Study: Radio Nigeria’s Climate Advocacy
In line with the theme of World Radio Day 2025, Radio Nigeria’s Enugu Weekly Show on Climate Change, hosted by Ekene Odigwe, stands out as an exemplary initiative. Every Monday, the program:
Raises awareness about climate issues.
Encourages community-driven solutions.
Provides a platform for marginalized voices, including women and indigenous people.
By leveraging radio’s wide reach and affordability, programs like this empower citizens to adopt climate-friendly practices and demand accountability from policymakers.
Conclusion: Safeguarding Radio’s Role in Climate Action
In times of environmental disasters, radio often becomes the only reliable source of information, operating even in the absence of electricity or internet. It remains a lifeline for communities affected by floods, wildfires, droughts, and other climate-related crises.
As we celebrate World Radio Day 2025, stakeholders—including government agencies, media owners, journalists, and civil society groups—must:
Support independent radio stations to ensure credible climate reporting.
Enhance protections for journalists covering climate issues.
Promote collaboration between scientists and media professionals to improve climate literacy.
With radio as a trusted medium, we can equip citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to tackle climate change and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Gbemiga Bamidele, Ph.D.
Convener, Society for Journalism Enhancement Initiatives (S4JEI)
