The World Television Day was declared by the United Nations in 1996, in recognition of the increasing impact television has on decision-making by bringing attention to world issues.

The European Broadcasting Union supports this world wide initiative.

EBU Media Director, Annika Nyberg Frankenhaeuser said:  “TV remains a powerful medium and continues to be the media platform that appeals to our emotions.”  She continues: “TV manages to reach whole populations through large events such as the Olympics. TV can break down borders, show the worlds’ diversity, educate and tell stories”. 

According to EBU statistics collated from its Member broadcasters, TV consumption is gaining ground.  2011 saw the second highest TV consumption ever in Europe with an average daily viewing time of 3 hours.   In the European media environment public service media account for more than 30% of all TV viewing in more than a third of all markets and remain market leaders in many countries, especially in western Europe.

TV no longer is a stand-alone means to view content.  The convergence of the media landscape means that content is produced for consumption via multiple platforms that offer the ultimate choice: radio, TV, the open internet or social media. Far from diluting individual media, the distinctive strengths of TV, radio and the internet are enhanced through cross-exposure.

EBU supports the creation and circulation of European creative content.  Its Members have the opportunity to exchange programme ideas and best practices leading to high-quality coproductions:  from entertainment to science and education; from documentaries to fiction and animation series.

The Eurovision News Exchange helps Members report stories, capturing historic moments and world news. It is also the means by which Members enrich their content, by sharing both domestic coverage and pictures from difficult-to-access locations.

For more information on the World Television Day: http://www.un.org/en/events/televisionday/