Today, we celebrate radio as a force for freedom of expression and pluralism, for all menand women. And especially women–who remain under-represented in news-making, indecision-making, and in media ownership.

　　How can we get the full story with only half of the world’s voices?

　　This is why UNESCO is working to develop radio as an independent and pluralistic mediafor both women and men, and to create a safer environment for all journalists, regardless ofgender.

　　Radio can carry any message to any place at any time – we need to fully harness thispower for the benefit of everyone.

　　In this spirit, UNESCO calls today on all broadcasters–from local community stations tointernational media outlets–to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women andmen both in and through radio.

　　This is UNESCO’s message on World Radio Day.