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Radio remains one of the most trusted medium of communication
The global 2022 theme for World Radio Day is Radio and Trust, with a focus on trust in journalism, accessibility and viability of radio stations. , according to different international reports.
Recent world events and the COVID-19 pandemic have eroded trust in the media in general, fueled by the circulation of false content rapidly spreading - particularly on social media. However, studies show that many citizens still ascribe greater confidence to radio than to any other media. This confidence level reinforces the importance of providing people with accurate and reliable content.
Radio is a powerful medium for celebrating humanity in all its diversity and constitutes a platform for democratic discourse. Its unique ability to reach out to the widest audience means radio can shape a society’s experience of diversity, stand as an arena for all voices to speak out, be represented and heard. Radio stations should serve diverse communities, offering a wide variety of programs, viewpoints and content, and reflect the diversity of audiences in their organisations and operations.
People’s trust in radio is due to its low cost and simplicity. Relative to the other media, both its capital cost and its running expenses are small. The medium is cheap to use and can attract a substantial audience. Radio remains affordable and can be listened to everywhere, even when electricity or connectivity are not reliable. The medium is therefore one of the most popular means of communication, used by an overwhelming majority of people.
Diversity, dissenting views, offering a public sphere are becoming crucial to maintain and raise trust levels in this medium. to commemorate World Radio Day by raising greater awareness among the public and the media regarding the importance of radio. UNESCO also encourages decision makers to establish and provide access to information through radio as well as to enhance networking and international cooperation among broadcasters.
