World Television Day

World Television Day History

World Television Day aims to acknowledge the significant influence and impact television has on societies across the globe. The United Nations established it to remind the world annually of the importance of this visual and audio medium. This day aims to promote global exchange and understanding of ideas, as well as highlight the importance of freedom of information and expression through television. It recognizes the role television plays in presenting different issues, such as political, social, economic, and environmental, to the people, enabling them to make informed decisions and initiate discussions.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed World Television Day on December 17, 1996, following the first World Television Forum held earlier that year. In Canada, television has played a vital role in shaping the country’s culture and reflecting its diversity. Starting with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) in 1952, television in Canada now includes many networks and channels that showcase local productions and provide a platform for international content, enriching Canadians with a wide variety of programming.

World Television Day is observed in Canada through various events, discussions, and activities centered on the role of television in people’s lives. Television broadcasters, industry personalities, and audiences in Canada join in celebrating the importance of local and national programming and its influence in bringing communities together. Canadians are encouraged to appreciate the value of television as an essential tool for information, education, and entertainment every year on November 21, when World Television Day takes place.

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.).
• In 1960, Canada's first privately-owned television network, CTV, was formed. CTV is now one of the most prominent media organizations in the country, producing original content and broadcasting a variety of international programs.
• The Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) is the first national Indigenous broadcaster in the world, offering programming in English, French, and various Indigenous languages.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Television Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Television Day

• Spread awareness on social media by using the hashtags #WorldTelevisionDay, #TelevisionPhilosophy and #TVDay.
• Get together with friends and create your own short news segment as if it was on television. This will be a fun, creative experiment about what it feels like to read the news on TV, and you’ll also learn a lot along the way!
• Keep an eye out for any film or television festivals happening in your area. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) showcase many Canadian productions.
• Invite friends and family over to watch Canadian television shows or films together. This can be a fun way to celebrate the day while also supporting Canadian productions.