World Radio Day 2026: 30+ FAQs About Radio’s History, Invention, Origin And Global Impact

FAQs About Radio: Every year, on February 13th, World Radio Day is observed to highlight the importance of the oldest communication device. The United Nations adopted it to honour the radio's significance as a communication tool. The anniversary of United Nations Radio's founding is February 13. In 1946, it was founded.

The celebration of World Radio Day is done to emphasise the use of radio in the sharing of information, the facilitation of freedom of expression, and the promotion of education. It is also the most accessible and cost-effective source of news and entertainment in the digital era.

On this special day, we commemorate the history, development, and impact of radio globally. Here are 30+ FAQs about radio.

History and Origin of Radio

World Radio Day 2026 (Image: Canva)

1. When is World Radio Day celebrated?

Answer: It is celebrated every year on February 13.

2. Why is February 13 chosen for World Radio Day?

Answer: It marks the anniversary of United Nations Radio, established in 1946.

3. Who proclaimed World Radio Day?

Answer: UNESCO proclaimed it in 2011.

4. When did the UN officially adopt World Radio Day?

Answer: The United Nations adopted it in 2012.

5. What is radio communication?

Answer: It is the transmission of sound and information through radio waves.

6. When was radio first developed?

Answer: Radio technology began developing in the late 19th century.

7. What were early radios used for?

Answer: They were mainly used for military communication and ship navigation.

8. When did radio broadcasting for the public begin?

Answer: Public broadcasting started in the early 1920s.

 

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Invention and Scientific Development

History of Radio (Image: Canva)

9. Who invented the radio?

Answer: Guglielmo Marconi is widely credited with inventing practical radio communication.

10. Did anyone else contribute to the radio’s invention?

Answer: Yes, Nikola Tesla and Heinrich Hertz also made key discoveries.

11. What are radio waves?

Answer: They are electromagnetic waves used to transmit sound signals.

12. What was Marconi’s big achievement?

Answer: He sent the first transatlantic radio signal in 1901.

13. What is AM radio?

Answer: AM stands for Amplitude Modulation, an early radio broadcasting method.

14. What is FM radio?

Answer: FM stands for Frequency Modulation, offering clearer sound quality.

15. What is shortwave radio?

Answer: It is a type of radio that can travel long distances internationally.

16. How did radio change during World War periods?

Answer: It became a vital tool for military communication and news updates.

Global Impact of Radio

17. Why is radio important worldwide?

Answer: It is affordable, accessible, and reaches remote areas.

18. How does radio help in emergencies?

Answer: It provides quick updates during natural disasters and crises.

19. How does radio support education?

Answer: Educational programs are broadcast to students in rural areas.

20. Why is radio called a “people’s medium”?

Answer: Because it is easy to access and does not require literacy.

21. How does radio promote freedom of expression?

Answer: It allows diverse voices and opinions to be shared publicly.

22. How many people listen to the radio globally?

Answer: Billions of people listen to the radio worldwide.

23. How does community radio help local people?

Answer: It shares local news, culture, and important information.

24. Does radio still matter in the digital age?

Answer: Yes, it remains relevant through FM, online radio, and podcasts.

 

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Modern Radio and Fun Facts

Modern Radio Facts (Image: Canva)

25. What is digital radio?

Answer: It is radio broadcasting using digital signals for better clarity.

26. What is internet radio?

Answer: Radio programs are streamed online instead of traditional frequencies.

27. What role does radio play in developing countries?

Answer: It connects rural communities to national and global news.

28. Can radio work without the internet?

Answer: Yes, traditional FM and AM radio work without internet access.

29. What is a radio jockey (RJ)?

Answer: A person who hosts and presents radio programs.

30. What is the oldest radio station in the world?

Answer: KDKA in the USA is considered one of the first commercial radio stations (1920).

31. What is the main message of World Radio Day?

Answer: To celebrate radio as a powerful tool for communication, unity, and development.