World Television Day
Television shaped the 20th century — and still defines how billions see the world.
About
World Television Day on November 21 recognises television as a major medium of communication, entertainment, and education — one that has profoundly shaped global culture, politics, and public opinion over the past 80 years. From the moon landing to civil rights marches, from Olympic Games to elections, television has delivered the defining images of modern history to billions of people simultaneously. Today, the boundaries between television and digital streaming are blurring: Netflix, YouTube, and other platforms carry content that is functionally television regardless of the device. The day highlights both television's power as a public forum — capable of driving social change, promoting diversity, and providing universal access to information — and its risks: misinformation, media monopolies, sensationalism, and the homogenisation of cultures. The UN's decision to designate a day for television reflects an understanding that media shapes the world we inhabit, and that how television operates — who owns it, what it shows, whose voices it amplifies — matters enormously.
History
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed November 21 as World Television Day in December 1996, following the first World Television Forum held at the UN that year. The forum brought together major media figures to discuss the growing influence of television in world affairs. The date marks the opening of that forum. Since then, the day has evolved to encompass all forms of screen-based media and the ongoing questions about their social and democratic functions.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
American television — from Hollywood dramas to cable news — dominates global media culture. World Television Day in the US prompts reflection on media consolidation, the declining local news industry, the role of streaming platforms, and debates about truth and misinformation on broadcast media.
KR South Korea
South Korean television has achieved global cultural influence through K-dramas and variety shows, culminating in phenomena like 'Squid Game' achieving global reach. World Television Day in Korea celebrates this cultural export while also examining public broadcasting standards and media regulation.
JP Japan
Japan has a rich television culture with distinctive genres including anime, game shows, and documentary traditions. Japanese public broadcaster NHK is internationally respected for quality journalism. World Television Day prompts reflection on the changing viewing habits of younger Japanese audiences moving to streaming platforms.
How to Participate
- 01Watch a documentary on a topic outside your usual viewing habits
- 02Read about media literacy and how to critically evaluate what you watch
- 03Explore the television traditions of another country — Korean drama, British comedy, Japanese documentary
- 04Limit screen time today and notice how it affects your sense of the world
Frequently asked questions
When is World Television Day?+
World Television Day is observed annually on November 21. The date is fixed each year — November 21 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Television Day?+
World Television Day on November 21 recognises television as a major medium of communication, entertainment, and education — one that has profoundly shaped global culture, politics, and public opinion over the past 80 years. From the moon landing to civil rights marches, from Olympic Games to electi…
Is World Television Day a public holiday?+
World Television Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Television Day?+
Watch a documentary on a topic outside your usual viewing habits Read about media literacy and how to critically evaluate what you watch Explore the television traditions of another country — Korean drama, British comedy, Japanese documentary These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Television Day?+
Global — United Nations initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Television Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan