World Day for Audiovisual Heritage

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage is an annual observance aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of preserving audiovisual materials, such as films, television programmes, and sound recordings. These materials are considered essential components of cultural heritage, as they provide invaluable insights into the past and help us understand the social, cultural, and historical contexts of different eras. The event focuses on the preventative measures that can be taken to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of these materials, addressing issues such as digitization, copyright, and training for audiovisual archivists.

The concept of World Day for Audiovisual Heritage originated from a proposal submitted by the Czech Republic in 2005, which was later adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2007. In the United Kingdom, the preservation of audiovisual heritage is vital, as it is home to several world-renowned film, television, and music industries. Initiatives such as the British Film Institute National Archive, which conserves one of the largest film and television collections in the world, and the BBC Archives, which holds an extensive range of television and radio programmes, photographs, and written documents, work to preserve the UK's rich audiovisual heritage.

In the United Kingdom, World Day for Audiovisual Heritage is observed by various institutions, organisations, and individuals involved in the preservation of audiovisual materials. Events typically include seminars, workshops, and screenings showcasing the significance of audiovisual heritage and highlighting progress made in its preservation. These initiatives aim to raise awareness and support within both the professional community and the general public. World Day for Audiovisual Heritage takes place globally on the 27th of October each year, with events and activities occurring throughout the month of October.