BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) — The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has commended the vital role of radio in the Caribbean in maintaining and promoting the region’s authentic voice.

As the world observes World Radio Day this Friday, the focus is on artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative impact on how people discover, engage with and enjoy audio content.

In a message marking the occasion, UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany emphasised that, when used ethically, AI can enhance radio’s core functions—connecting communities and building public trust. However, he also warned of the risks involved if the technology is misused, stating, “What is at stake is the very essence of radio: its credibility, its integrity and its human voice.”

“AI opens new horizons. Broadcasters are using it to produce content more efficiently, understand audience preferences and reach new markets. Translation and transcription tools are helping to break down language barriers and amplify Indigenous and minority languages, which are often underrepresented in mainstream media,” El-Enany explained.

He said this year’s theme for World Radio Day, “Artificial Intelligence is a Tool, Not a Voice”, serves as both a caution and a call to action.

“We urge all broadcasters to adopt clear ethical frameworks for the use of AI, grounded in the principles of our 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: transparency, data protection and safeguards against manipulation,” El-Enany said.

He is urging countries, including the Caribbean, to take part in World Radio Day by registering their initiatives on UNESCO’s dedicated platform.

“More than 750 activities in 170 countries are already confirmed. Together, let us ensure that AI serves the public — and not the other way around. Let us ensure that radio continues to inform with integrity, connect with empathy and speak with a human voice,” he said.