World Radio Day 2025: celebrating radio in the digital age

Publication date: February 13, 2025

In the modern era, streaming platforms, podcasts and AI-generated content dominate our media landscape — but radio is one medium that has remained a vital presence for over a century.

As we celebrate World Radio Day on 13 February 2025, we reflect on how this global form of communication continues to thrive, adapt, and serve communities worldwide — now more than ever with the support of digital technology.

Radio — a timeless medium in a tech-driven world

Radio is often perceived as an old-school medium, a nostalgic throwback to a simpler time before the internet revolutionised all media. But radio is still one of the most accessible, trusted, and widely used forms of media worldwide.

Radio is resilient. It doesn’t require high-speed internet or expensive devices. It can reach the most remote areas, provide real-time updates during emergencies, and amplify diverse voices. From community radio stations broadcasting local news to international networks covering global events, radio is a lifeline for billions.

Radio’s role in climate action and global challenges

This year’s World Radio Day theme highlights radio’s role in climate action, reinforcing its power to inform, educate and mobilise communities in the face of global environmental challenges. While social media is full of misinformation, radio is still a trusted source of fact-based reporting. Whether it’s raising awareness about climate change, sharing sustainable practices, or providing emergency updates during natural disasters, radio stations worldwide are stepping up to keep the public informed.

But radio doesn’t just report on climate action — it also plays a role in the solutions. Through coding and technological advancements, radio stations are becoming more sustainable, leveraging digital tools to improve their operations and reduce their environmental impact.

Coding and radio — a powerful partnership

At first glance, radio and coding might seem like they belong in different eras, but in reality they are deeply connected. Behind every successful radio broadcast, there’s a network of digital infrastructure, automation, and software that keeps things running smoothly. From signal processing to AI-powered audio boosting, coding is shaping the future of radio in exciting ways.

Here’s how coding intersects with modern radio:

Streaming and digital transformation

Traditional radio waves may still dominate, but internet radio and podcasts are expanding exponentially. Many stations now use streaming technologies to deliver high-quality broadcasts.

AI and automated broadcasting

Many radio stations use AI and automation to enhance their programming. AI can help automate music selection, schedule broadcasts, and even generate weather or traffic reports in real time. Open-source tools like Liquidsoap help automate radio streams, making it easier for community stations to run efficiently.

Emergency alert systems

During natural disasters, radio plays a critical role in broadcasting emergency information. Many radio stations now integrate automated emergency broadcast systems, triggered by coded alerts from meteorological agencies and government bodies. These systems ensure that life-saving information is broadcast instantly to affected communities.

One recent example is Storm Eowyn, which battered parts of western Europe last month, bringing extreme winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding. In Ireland and the UK, radio stations such as RTÉ Radio 1 and BBC Radio 4 provided continuous emergency updates, broadcasting safety advice from the Irish Meteorological Service (Met Éireann) and the UK Met Office. In remote rural areas, where power outages affected internet access, local radio stations played a vital role in keeping residents informed.

Open-source radio software

Coding enthusiasts and developers contribute to the evolution of radio through open-source broadcasting software like Rivendell (for radio automation) or GQRX (for software-defined radio). These tools allow radio stations to manage their programming, analyse signals, and even experiment with new broadcasting methods without requiring expensive equipment.

How to get involved in World Radio Day 2025

World Radio Day isn’t just for broadcasters — it’s for anyone who values the power of communication, technology and storytelling. Here’s how you can participate:

Tune in and engage

Find a local or international radio station that resonates with you. Many stations will be hosting special programmes focused on climate action and the future of radio. Share your thoughts on social media using #WorldRadioDay to join the conversation.

Support community and independent radio

Local and independent stations play a crucial role in preserving diverse voices and stories. Consider donating to your favourite community station or volunteering your skills — whether it’s coding, audio editing or marketing.

Explore the tech behind radio

If you’re a coder, experiment with software-defined radio (SDR), contribute to open-source broadcasting tools, or even build your own online radio station? Platforms like Raspberry Pi and WebSDR make it easier than ever to tinker with radio technology.

Collaborate and innovate

UNESCO is inviting radio stations to connect with partners in other countries, exchange programmes, and even consider long-term collaborations beyond 13 February. If you run a radio station, this is the perfect opportunity to expand your reach and embrace new voices.

The future of radio — a digital renaissance

While digital media continues to evolve, radio is not being left behind — it is evolving alongside. It’s important to recognise the enduring power of radio to educate, entertain, and connect us all.

The next time you tune in, think about the intricate network of code, innovation, and human creativity that makes it all possible!