Television has long been a powerful medium for storytelling, education, and connection. On November 21, 2019, the world celebrated World Television Day, recognizing the profound impact of TV on shaping public opinion and fostering global awareness. That year, the United Nations (UN) took its partnerships with the entertainment industry to new heights, leveraging the medium to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspire action on critical global issues. This article delves into the significance of World TV Day 2019 and the innovative collaborations that brought the UN’s vision to screens worldwide.
The Role of Television in Advancing Global Goals
Television has the unique ability to reach diverse audiences across the globe, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. It serves as a platform for raising awareness about pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, while also inspiring viewers to take action. Recognizing this potential, the UN has consistently partnered with the entertainment industry to amplify its message and drive progress toward the SDGs.
In 2019, these partnerships took center stage, showcasing how creative storytelling and engaging content could bring global issues to life. From climate change and gender equality to education and health, television became a catalyst for change, sparking conversations and mobilizing communities.
Key UN Partnerships with the Entertainment Industry in 2019
The UN’s collaborations with the entertainment industry in 2019 highlighted the power of partnerships in achieving shared goals. Here are some of the standout initiatives that made an impact:
1. Angry Birds and the ActNow Campaign
In a creative and playful collaboration, the UN teamed up with Sony Pictures Entertainment to promote the ActNow campaign through the popular Angry Birds franchise. The campaign encouraged fans of “The Angry Birds Movie 2” to take action against climate change by adopting sustainable habits. A public service announcement (PSA) featuring the beloved characters was broadcast across Sony’s networks, reaching millions of viewers worldwide. The campaign also utilized social media, with hashtags like #AngryBirdsHappyPlanet and #ActNow directing audiences to the UN’s ActNow bot, where they could pledge eco-friendly actions.
2. Thomas & Friends and the Global Goals
The UN partnered with Mattel, Inc. to integrate the SDGs into the beloved children’s TV series “Thomas & Friends.” Nine episodes were created to introduce preschoolers and their families to the Global Goals, using relatable stories and characters to convey important messages. The collaboration also included educational YouTube videos, parent and teacher resources, and a dedicated website. By reaching young audiences in 36 countries and 19 languages, the initiative aimed to instill values of sustainability and social responsibility from an early age.
3. Promoting Gender Equality Through Storytelling
The UN worked with various production companies to highlight gender equality and women’s empowerment in television programming. By incorporating strong female characters and narratives that challenged stereotypes, these partnerships sought to inspire viewers and promote a more inclusive society. The entertainment industry played a crucial role in normalizing conversations about gender equality and showcasing diverse perspectives.
The Impact of World TV Day 2019
World TV Day 2019 was more than a celebration of television—it was a call to action. The UN’s partnerships with the entertainment industry demonstrated how creative content could drive awareness and engagement on global issues. These initiatives not only entertained audiences but also educated them about the importance of the SDGs and the role they could play in achieving them.
The success of these collaborations underscored the potential of television as a force for good. By combining the reach of the entertainment industry with the UN’s vision for a better world, World TV Day 2019 set a precedent for future partnerships and campaigns.
Looking Ahead: The Future of TV and Global Change
As technology continues to evolve, the role of television in advancing global goals will only grow. Streaming platforms, interactive content, and virtual reality offer new opportunities to engage audiences and amplify important messages. The UN’s partnerships with the entertainment industry serve as a blueprint for harnessing the power of media to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
World TV Day reminds us of the responsibility that comes with storytelling. Whether through drama, comedy, or animation, television has the power to shape attitudes, inspire action, and bring us closer to achieving the SDGs. As we look to the future, the collaboration between the UN and the entertainment industry will remain a vital force for change.
by United Nations
