World Book and Copyright Day is an international observance celebrated annually on April 23 by UNESCO. This special day emphasizes the importance of books as a bridge between generations and cultures and highlights their impact on societies. Books offer individuals the opportunity to encounter different people, cultures, and ideas, thereby supporting intellectual and cultural diversity.
History
April 23 holds symbolic significance in world literature. This date coincides with the death anniversaries of renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. UNESCO officially proclaimed this day as World Book and Copyright Day in 1995, recognizing the social and cultural value of books on an international scale. As of 2025, the observance marked its 30th anniversary.
UNESCO’s Contributions and Programs
UNESCO implements various programs to promote books and reading, notably the World Book Capitals and Creative Cities of Literature initiatives.
Each year, one city is designated as the World Book Capital in the context of World Book and Copyright Day celebrations. These cities implement projects to promote a culture of reading across all age groups and social sectors. Selected cities also showcase the potential of books to drive social change and undertake initiatives aimed at generating sustainable economic benefits. This program began in 2001 with Madrid, Spain, and in 2025, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, was named the World Book Capital. Projects in Rio de Janeiro include book parades and the establishment of new libraries in the city’s most vulnerable areas.
UNESCO emphasizes the importance of books being accessible in multiple languages to realize their full potential. Many communities worldwide face challenges in literacy, education, and cultural transmission due to insufficient resources in their native languages.
Digital Access and Copyright
Emerging technologies have the potential to expand access to books and publishing infrastructure, while the digital divide can exacerbate inequalities within the global creative economy. In response, UNESCO supports projects through the International Fund for Cultural Diversity, which promote the book sector and protect copyright. These initiatives include digital publishing support for indigenous creators in Brazil and efforts to strengthen intellectual property rights in Ethiopia.
Books and Sustainable Development
UNESCO considers the book and publishing sector an essential component of sustainable development. A report analyzing the development of the sector across 54 member countries in Africa is prepared to identify growth opportunities and enhance its contribution to economic and social development.
