World Television Day

World Television Day celebrates the integral role television plays in our lives. It recognizes the power of TV in shaping public opinion, fostering communication, informing and educating the public on diverse topics ranging from current events, environmental issues, to sports and entertainment. The day aims to promote international cooperation by encouraging major media broadcasters to exchange cultural, educational, and informational television programs globally.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed World Television Day on November 21st, 1996, in recognition of the first World Television Forum held that same year. The idea was to focus on the increasing influence of television and its potential for nurturing international understanding. For Americans, World Television Day encourages reflection on the vast cultural landscape that television provides. It is an opportunity to appreciate the numerous American-made television shows and programs that have become popular worldwide, while also acknowledging the richness of content visionaries from different countries have brought to the United States.

This day often includes various events, discussions, and broadcast showcases that celebrate the evolution and diversity of television. Some networks and TV stations in America may choose to air international programs or documentaries highlighting the impact of television on society, culture, and current affairs, underscoring the importance of this powerful medium that reaches millions of homes around the world. World Television Day is observed annually on November 21st.

World Television Day facts

• TV stimulates the economy by providing countless avenues for jobs. Over 1.2 million people in the European Union alone are employed in the media sector

• In France, 63% of children between the age of 0 and 15 live in a household with 4 screens (TV, computer, tablet etc.).

• Television creates authority. When something is shown on TV it has a particular authority about it because you know that you and millions of other people are seeing it and that professionals have produced it.

• Collected data by U.S. News, shows that in 2020, adults in the United States spent about 3.1 hours per day watching television.

• Television is a medium because anything well done is rare. - Fred Allen, American comedian and radio show host.