World Day for Audiovisual Heritage is an international observance held annually on October 27. The day is dedicated to the preservation, digitization, and transmission to future generations of audiovisual documents that constitute the shared cultural heritage of humanity. These materials—including films, radio and television programs, and audio and video recordings—serve as primary records of the 20th and 21st centuries. They are essential elements of collective memory, accessible both to literate and illiterate populations.

^{World Day for Audiovisual Heritage (FIAT IFTA)}

Purpose and Significance

Audiovisual documents complement written records by reflecting the cultural, social, and historical experiences of societies. They play a crucial role in preserving the collective memory of humanity. However, due to deterioration, neglect, lack of resources, and technological limitations, this heritage is at significant risk of being lost. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) considers the preservation of these materials an urgent priority and emphasizes that digitization is essential to prevent the loss of humanity’s memory. World Day for Audiovisual Heritage provides an opportunity to raise awareness of this issue and support preservation efforts.

History

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage was proposed during the International Congress held in Vienna in 2004 and officially adopted by UNESCO at its 33rd General Conference in 2005. Consequently, October 27 was formally designated to raise awareness about the importance of preserving audiovisual archives.

Events and Practices

UNESCO and its member states organize various activities to commemorate World Day for Audiovisual Heritage. Globally, archives, museums, libraries, and media institutions host events such as film screenings, seminars, exhibitions, and online presentations that highlight the fragile nature of audiovisual heritage. These events also recognize and increase the visibility of the efforts made by professionals and institutions working in this field.

UNESCO’s Contributions

UNESCO implements various projects aimed at preserving and providing access to audiovisual materials, among which the “Digitize Our Shared Heritage” initiative is prominent. This project facilitates the digital organization and sharing of UNESCO archives, contributing to the preservation of audiovisual heritage. Furthermore, World Day for Audiovisual Heritage allows member states to evaluate their performance and review practices related to heritage preservation.

Global Perspective

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage serves as a platform to emphasize the significance of audiovisual documents and raise international awareness regarding protective measures. The day helps people connect with the past and recognize the role of shared heritage in promoting peace and understanding.