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| © UNICEF/2011-00067/CrouchIndi |
| Maharashtra, INDIA: Rushali Gajabhaye, of the Red Ribbon Club (RRCÕs), speaks to village elder Asha Rohane and her daughters. RRC's are voluntary village level forums for young people to spread information on safe sex practises. |
Communication lies at the heart of human development. In this era of globalization, new and changing technologies in communication, information and social networking are transforming economic, social and cultural life as never before. Although the world’s poorest are still largely excluded from this progress, the 'digital divide' is narrowing as these technologies make information and communication easier, accessible and affordable. This communication revolution has the potential for empowering people — including children — as communicators and agents of change as well as media consumers.
At UNICEF, the role of effective communication for development goes beyond providing information. It involves understanding people, their beliefs and values, the social and cultural norms that shape their lives. It involves engaging communities and listening to adults and children as they identify problems, propose solutions and act upon them. Communication for development is seen as a two-way process for sharing ideas and knowledge using a range of communication tools and approaches that empower individuals and communities to take actions to improve their lives.
UNICEF C4D Video on Programme Communication
Reports
Communication for Development in the UN (A/63/180 - 28 July 2008)
Recommendations from the 10th UN Round Table on Communication for Development, Addis Ababa (2007)
The Rome Consensus from the World Congress on Communication for Development in Rome, Italy (2006)
Links open in PDF.
