Listener’s Day on Radio Romania International
A special programme bringing together voices and perspectives from around the world. This year, we asked our listeners what unites us in an increasingly divided world. Their thoughtful answers offer a heartfelt reminder of the values and experiences we share, beyond borders and differences.
Elena Enache and Mihaela Ignătescu, 08.11.2026, 14:15
Hello friends of RRI!
Every year, on November 1, Radio Romania celebrates Radio Day, marking the first broadcast of the Romanian Radio Broadcasting Corporation in 1928. It is a special occasion for us to celebrate not only the history of radio, but also the people who have made it what it is today: our listeners.
To mark the occasion, Radio Romania International (RRI) brings you its annual Listener’s Day programme, a special broadcast dedicated to the voices, thoughts and experiences of our worldwide audience. This year’s edition airs on Sunday, November 8, and once again, we invited you to share your thoughts on a subject that touches us all. Our question was: What do you think unites us in a divided world? What are the experiences or values we share, regardless of where we live, and what helps us better understand each other?
Your answers offered a wealth of thoughtful reflections, personal experiences and inspiring perspectives. They reminded us that, despite our differences and the distances that separate us, there is much that brings us together. We are delighted to share your contributions with our wider audience.
This programme is particularly special because it brings together voices not only from our regular English Service listeners, but also from audiences across RRI’s other language services, making it a truly international conversation.
Curious to hear what your fellow listeners had to say? You can listen to the full Listener’s Day broadcast by following the link at the end of this post.
To all those who took the time to write to us and share their thoughts: thank you! Your participation, enthusiasm and continued connection with Radio Romania International are what make this annual programme possible. We couldn’t do it without you!
FRANCISCO GONZÁLEZ – Spain
“I think that what unites us is much stronger than what separates us. We may speak different languages, have different traditions or think differently about some things, but we all want to live in peace, take care of our families and have a better future. For me, radio is a good example of this. When I listen to a station from another country, I feel closer to the people who live there, even if I have never met them. Through music, news and the voices of ordinary people, we can learn about other cultures and discover that we have more in common than we sometimes imagine. I believe that respect, kindness and listening to others are very important. We do not have to agree on everything to understand each other. Sometimes, simply being willing to listen is a good start.
Greetings from Córdoba, Spain, and thank you for giving listeners the opportunity to share their thoughts.”
MIGUEL MORENO – United States
„In my opinion, one of the most powerful things that unites us in a divided world is our shared love for stories, music, and radio. Even if we live thousands of miles apart and come from different cultures, listening to the same broadcast connects us instantly. Radio stations like RRI create a unique space where we can discover our shared human experiences, learn from one another, and realize that we are not as different as we think. Listening and being open to other perspectives is the first step toward better mutual understanding.”
ALEJANDRO SANFILIPPO — Argentina
“From Argentina, a tribute to radio and to those who keep its magic alive. My name is Alejandro Sanfilippo, and I am writing to you from Buenos Aires, Argentina, with the affection and emotion of someone who has found in radio a cherished companion throughout his life. I have been a shortwave listener (SWL and DXer) since the mid-1980s, and I also collect radio receivers. As a teenager, I used to write letters to international radio stations on different continents. I have fond memories of receiving mail from distant places: QSL cards, publications and gifts, especially books that arrived after travelling thousands of kilometres. Each of those letters was much more than a reply: it was a window onto the world. For me, radio remains an incomparable analogue medium whose essence will endure beyond the passage of time and technological advances. Electromagnetic waves are a wonderful natural phenomenon. They travel through space, cross borders and allow us to hear voices from other continents without necessarily depending on the internet, Wi-Fi connections or digital subscriptions. There is something profoundly human about this experience. Thanks to radio, we do not need to know one another to feel close. We do not need to see one another to keep each other company. A voice is simply broadcast, and someone, somewhere in the world, receives it. That is why, today more than ever, I want to say: LONG LIVE RADIO! The voice that embraces people, bridges distances, keeps us company in solitude and keeps alive that wonderful encounter between the broadcaster and the listener. This coming November 8 will be a very special day, an opportunity to remember that we listeners, too, play a leading role in this story. Because as long as there is someone willing to switch on a receiver or tune to a frequency and listen to a distant voice, radio will remain alive. I follow Radio Romania International’s programmes and news with great interest, and it is a real pleasure to take part in such an important event. From Argentina, I send you my appreciation for keeping international broadcasting alive, along with my warmest greetings to everyone who makes each programme possible. Long live radio and its listeners!”
VOJTĚCH HOŘEJŠÍ – Czechia
“Thank you for your email. To answer your question about what unites us in a divided world, I think it is communication and shared interests. Even though people live in different countries and speak different languages, things like radio technology and the desire to connect allow us to overcome borders. When we listen to each other and share information across the world, it helps us realize that we have more in common than what divides us.”
SAFRIL SUSANTO – Indonesia
“Music is what unites us in this world through radio, for music is a universal language. It requires no translator; the emotions conveyed in a melody whether sorrow, joy, or a fighting spirit can be understood by anyone. Radio broadcasts possess a unique power to bring us together. Regardless of whether one is rich or poor, radio signals transcend boundaries, reaching everywhere from remote areas to bustling cities.”
JOEL PEARSE – England
“I think that music is very good at bringing people together: Even if it is not possible to understand the language of any lyrics, you can appreciate the tone and general feeling of the music. I think that visiting different countries and observing different cultures can give you a better understanding of your own culture. Sharing our different ways of life and cultures with each other is important. Also, for this reason I think it is important that countries and societies retain their individual cultures. Some traditions and cultures have been shaped over many centuries, and we can all take ideas from them. I also think that nature, and the natural environment, plays a big part in shaping a country’s culture. It influences many aspects of people’s daily lives. I think that respect for nature and wildlife can be something that goes some way to uniting a divided world: Two people with opposing political or religious views can both be inspired by watching a spectacular sunset, climbing a mountain or experiencing the power of a stormy sea. Similarly, people with completely different opinions on politics or religion can both feel the same joy when a seed that they have planted grows into a beautiful plant or a tasty vegetable. I think it is important that we all take time to appreciate the less materialistic things in life. We all want the same basic things: food, shelter, safety etc. Perhaps, we can better understand each other and different cultures, if we first take time to understand ourselves. “No man is an island…” This poem by John Donne seems apt for this discussion. Shortwave international radio broadcasts play an important part in helping us bring us together, and providing a valuable insight into each other’s culture. I always look forward to tuning in to listen to RRI’s excellent programmes.”
NIJAT IMRANLI – Germany
“ (…) I believe my own life has given me an interesting perspective on this subject. I was born in Azerbaijan, have lived in Georgia, and have called Germany home for many years. I also love travelling and have visited countries with very different languages, religions, cultures and histories, from Vietnam to Bahrain and from Turkey to Cambodia. I have been listening to international shortwave radio for many years, and Radio Romania International has been one of my favourite stations since 2015. I particularly enjoy programmes about the traditions, culture and history of different countries. Through travelling and listening, I have come to realize that despite our differences, we share something fundamental: we are all human beings.
The language of respect, understanding, kindness, support and love is universal. Sadly, so is the language of hatred and cruelty. Only the words and sounds we use to express them change. I have also discovered remarkable similarities between distant cultures, sometimes separated by thousands of kilometers. Their traditions, customs and symbols can be surprisingly alike, even when there is no obvious historical connection. I believe nature is one of the reasons. Our cuisine, music, ornaments and architecture are deeply influenced by the landscapes, climate and resources surrounding our ancestors. In this sense, nature is another thing that unites us.
Perhaps we understand each other better when we stop seeing cultural differences as barriers and start treating them as opportunities to learn. Travelling, learning languages and listening to other countries’ radio stations have taught me that the world is much more interconnected than it might seem. Ultimately, I believe curiosity, respect and a willingness to understand one another can bring people closer, regardless of borders, languages or backgrounds.”
AMIR JAMEEL – Pakistan
“I believe that love, kindness and respect are the most important things that unite us in a divided world. Although we live in different countries, speak different languages and follow different cultures and religions, we all share similar feelings, hopes and dreams. Every person wants to live a happy and peaceful life, feel loved and respected, and have a safe and better future for their family. We all experience happiness, sadness, fear, hope and difficulties in our lives. These common experiences remind us that we are not so different from one another.
Kindness is a powerful way to bring people closer together. Even a small act, such as helping someone in need, sharing a smile, or offering comforting words can make a big difference in another person’s life. We do not need to be rich or powerful to help others sometimes a little care and understanding are enough to make someone feel valued. When we show kindness without expecting anything in return we create stronger relationships and build trust among people.
Respect is equally important because every person has their own beliefs, opinions, traditions and way of life. We may not always agree with others but we should learn to respect their differences. We should never judge people because of their religion, culture, nationality, language or appearance. Instead, we should try to understand their experiences and appreciate what makes them unique. Our differences should not become reasons for hatred or conflict they should help us learn new things and see the world from different perspectives.
I also believe that listening to one another is one of the best ways to reduce misunderstandings. Sometimes people argue because they do not try to understand each other’s feelings or opinions. If we listen patiently, speak politely and communicate honestly, we can solve many problems peacefully. Putting ourselves in another person’s place helps us understand their pain, struggles and emotions. This teaches us empathy and reminds us that every person has a story and we should not judge someone without knowing what they have experienced.
In today’s world where people are often divided by politics, religion, culture and social differences, we need more compassion, cooperation and understanding. Instead of focusing only on what separates us, we should focus on the values we share. We all need love, friendship, safety, hope and acceptance. By helping one another, standing against injustice and treating everyone fairly, we can create a world where people feel safe and respected.
In the end, I believe that what truly unites us is our shared humanity. We may look different speak different languages and have different beliefs but deep inside, we all want to be happy, loved and understood. We do not need to be the same to live together in peace. We simply need to accept our differences, respect one another and choose kindness over hatred. If each of us makes a small effort to spread love, show respect and understand others, we can make the world a more peaceful, caring and united place for everyone.”
ASHOK KUMAR KANSAL – India
“What unites us in a divided world? For me, it is three simple things: Family, Learning, and Radio. Borders divide us on maps, but a mother’s lullaby, a child’s curiosity, and a grandfather’s story are the same everywhere – in Romania or in India. As a retired person who now teaches poor and orphan children, I see daily that the desire to learn and to be loved is universal. And radio like RRI unites us. Your signal travels across continents and reminds us we are all listeners to the same world. Music, kindness and the hope for our grandchildren’s future – these values we all share, regardless of where we live. What helps us understand each other better is simply – listening. Just like we are doing today.”
Richard Contone – United States
“I think that what brings us together in a divided world, is that as a species, Human beings have all survived many tragedies. Our history is full of mishaps, no Matter where we come from on the globe, and understanding the way in which we Overcame them is important in order for us to save the world. What factors went into Overcoming major tragedies? How did different countries and areas deal with them? Maybe we can share with each other a method at which world problems can be solved. The understanding of human history is the key to the process of dealing with Problems that are happening now. Sharing knowledge of human instinct may be able To bring us together in dealing with the unrest in the world.”
CHRISTER BRUNSTRÖM — Sweden
“The topic for this year’s Listener’s Day is quite interesting but it is also extremely complicated – is there really anything which unites all of us in a divided and extremely polarized world? There obviously are some common denominators for what all of us want such as a loving family, a comfortable home, a good job and enough food but many of these prerequisites are not available to many people. Solidarity is a nice word but it does not seem to be in high esteem today, at least not in many parts of the world. Wars and famine force people to leave their homelands and frequently as a consequence of actions taken in other parts of the world. There aren’t any inspiring world leaders today as they mostly appear to act on behalf of their own agendas or ambitions. Some people do get involved in worldwide communities on the Internet centered on a common interest such as music, sports or hobbies but I very much doubt that this really has any positive influence on today’s general situation.
We certainly value freedom of expression but it is sadly mostly used to create even more division and conflicts. Also the right of free speech seems to be non-existent in most of the world’s nations. Now coming back to the topic for this year’s Listener’s Day, the only thing which appears to unite most people regardless of where they reside, and which is the only one that I have been able to come up with, is the universal fascination with the screen of your smartphone. It seems most people today have become followers of what a limited number of influencers tell them to do, to believe and to buy. Today many people spend far more time with their smartphone screens than with their families and friends.”
HANS VERNER LOLLIKE — Denmark
“We are living in a very cruel time of world history. It seems as if the world is run by 3 superpowers, that do what they like to do, and allow the other 2 to do the same. On a general basis I think the great majority of us, that has no power, should stand with the principles of UN and the declaration of human rights no matter, what the superpowers decides to do. Do we have a common moral understanding of life? I am not so sure. I know that most religions have, but they are not always put into practice. As a Christian I believe, that we are all created even. This is a principle, that can be shared with most people. We will have to work on it every day. To build societies, where all people are accepted and well taken care of.”
LAKSHMI KANT MUKUL — India
“What unites us in a divided world? I think it is our shared human emotions. We may speak different languages, follow different religions, and live on different continents, but we all laugh when we are happy, we cry when we lose someone, and we worry for our children’s future. That emotional map is the same everywhere. You mentioned music, stories, travel and the desire to be heard. I feel all four are deeply connected. Take music first. I do not understand Romanian, but when I listen to a Romanian folk song on RRI, I feel its sadness or joy even without understanding the words. Music needs no visa, no passport. A lullaby sung by a mother in Bucharest and a lullaby sung by my mother in Bihar have the same purpose – to make a child sleep peacefully. That is what unites us.
Second is stories. Every culture has stories of good versus evil, of a poor boy who becomes wise, of love that crosses barriers. In my town, we tell stories of Sher Shah who built the Grand Trunk Road to connect people. In your country, you may have stories of people who built bridges over the Danube. The characters change, but the values – courage, honesty, kindness – are universal. When we share stories, we realize we have been teaching our children the same lessons for centuries.
Third is travel and curiosity. Why does a person in India want to listen to Radio Romania? Why does a Romanian want to know about India? Because we are curious. We want to know how others live, what they eat, how they celebrate. This curiosity is not political; it is human. When I first saw a picture of snow in Romania on the radio’s Facebook page, I was amazed, because in Sasaram we never see snow. That amazement connects us.
But the most powerful thing that unites us, I think, is the fourth point you mentioned – the desire to be heard. Everyone, whether a farmer in Kaimur hills or a worker in Bucharest, wants someone to listen to him. We all want to say: “I exist, my life matters, my story is important.” In this polarized world, we shout a lot but listen less. A station like RRI does the opposite – it listens. When you invite listeners to speak, you give dignity to ordinary people. And when a person feels heard, his anger reduces, his hatred reduces. What helps us better understand each other? I think it is small, daily empathy. Not big conferences, but small things: learning how to say “Namaste” or “Buna ziua”, trying another country’s food, listening to a song for two minutes without judging. Understanding does not mean we have to agree on everything. It means we accept that another person can have a different view and still be a good human being. In a divided world, what unites us is the realization that we share one planet and one future. Climate change, pandemics, and the pain of war do not check passports. They affect us all. If we can suffer together, we can also hope together. I grew up between two symbols: an old tomb that reminds us that even emperors die, and a mountain range that reminds us that nature is much older and stronger than us. Both teach humility. Humility is what the world needs today. Thank you for making RRI a space that brings people together every day. I feel united with you through the airwaves.”
MOHAMED ELSAYED ABD ELRAHEIM – Egypt
“It is always my pleasure and honor to maintain my annual participation in this extraordinary event, “Listeners’ Day”—a day I consider a true celebration for listeners worldwide. It represents a human bridge that transcends geographic borders and language barriers, bringing us all together in one shared etheric space. Allow me to present my humble contribution to this year’s activity, which revolves around three core questions:
What unites us in a divided world? What are our shared experiences or values, regardless of where we live? What helps us understand each other better? Here is my response: I firmly believe that what unites human beings is far greater than what divides them. Despite the differences in our countries, cultures, languages, and beliefs, we share similar human emotions and experiences. We love our families, rejoice in beautiful moments, grieve over losses, worry about our loved ones, and dream of a better future for our children. Our life circumstances may differ, but our fundamental need for safety, love, respect, and a sense of belonging remains the same.
Simple human values are what build bridges between us. A kind word, a helping hand in times of need, loyalty in friendship, and respect for human dignity are all concepts understood by people everywhere, regardless of their language. We may not know much about the lives of others, but when we get closer to their experiences and listen to their stories, we discover that behind every face lies a story, and behind every difference is a human being with hopes, fears, and dreams.
In my view, what helps us understand one another better is not agreeing on everything, but accepting the right of others to be different and striving to understand their perspectives before passing judgment. Differences often turn into barriers due to misunderstandings or prejudices, whereas honest dialogue can reveal common ground we had never seen before.
True listening does not merely mean hearing words; it means giving the other person an opportunity to express themselves and making an effort to understand the feelings and meaning behind their words. When we speak with respect, act with empathy, and remember that human dignity does not depend on nationality, language, or belief, we lay the foundation for a more peaceful and understanding world.
I do not believe that building a closer world always requires grand gestures. It can begin with a simple act, a genuine human gesture, an outstretched hand to someone in need, or a dialogue between two people who hold different views yet respect each other. These small details, when repeated in our daily lives, are capable of making a real difference.
What unites us is not being identical, but recognizing our shared humanity and viewing our differences as an opportunity to learn and connect, rather than a cause for fear or hostility. The world, in all its vastness and diversity, becomes a better place when we learn how to disagree without conflict, converse without condescension, and draw closer without expecting others to become replicas of ourselves.
Perhaps the most important step toward a less divided world is for each of us to start with ourselves by being better listeners, less hasty in judgment, and more willing to understand the other. When we give a person the chance to be seen as they truly are, rather than through the lens of our prejudices, we discover that we share enough common ground to build a future defined by peace, respect, and mutual understanding.”
MAURIZION LOTTI – Italy
“I believe that, in a divided world, knowledge is what truly makes a difference. Discovering the customs, traditions and culture of a foreign country makes it seem much less foreign, dispels prejudice and bridges distances. In this respect, radio remains an extraordinary medium that transcends physical barriers and enables people to come together simply by listening to one another.”
CIRO MENNELLA – Italy
“I believe that what unites us in a divided world is the value of fraternity. Ultimately, we are all equal, even though we have different religions and different skin colors. The values and experiences we should pass on to future generations center on mutual respect among peoples, regardless of where in the world we live. We should be selfless and try to understand the problems faced by people around the world.”
ADRIAN MICALLEF – Malta
“In a world so divided and cosmopolitan, where cultures, religions and languages meet, clash and engage in dialogue, some people feel afraid. This is why the media and social networks are important. As I discovered through personal experience many years ago, listening to mediumwave and shortwave radio, including Radio Romania, gave me the opportunity to hear programmes in Romanian—a language I do not speak fluently but appreciate, as it is different from my mother tongue. By understanding one another, staying informed and learning from different countries, we enrich our culture and knowledge. We engage in dialogue with people from other cultures and countries in a globalized, technological world that is now at our fingertips. In the past, reaching distant places meant travelling for days or months by sea or by air. Today, the world is within our reach. Even with a mobile phone, we can discover and learn countless things: languages, customs, history and much more. Let us understand the world around us so that we can keep learning! On Listeners’ Day 2026, I hope everyone will keep their interest in discovering other cultures and languages alive. May this occasion pave the way for more open dialogue among us!”
PHILIPPE MARSAN – France
“A broad question about human relations among the peoples of the world. And what an interesting question it is—thank you for choosing this topic! (…) Radio, through shortwave broadcasting, brings people together. As a listener to radio broadcasts over the airwaves, I have built very good relationships with China, Russia, Poland, the United States, Albania and other countries since 1966. Voices carried over the airwaves bridge distances, remove borders and create connections between journalists, presenters and French-speaking listeners around the world. Today, the Iron Curtain is gone. But peaceful Europe is no longer so tranquil. War is ravaging Ukraine, on our doorstep. Nevertheless, we all remain committed to human values. Since the French Revolution of 1789, humanist ideas have developed and evolved over time. Civilization gradually took shape, eventually leading to the emergence of the European Union. The advent of air travel, high-speed railways and motorways allows us to travel, meet people and bridge the distances between nations. Through the exchange of ideas and mutual understanding, we live better lives, even though our backgrounds, religions and beliefs differ. Listening, understanding and dialogue are essential values. My grandfather was a musician. In the 1930s and 1940s, he played several instruments and occasionally conducted the orchestra in Bordeaux. (…) Through music, he had connections with musicians from other countries, such as England, Germany and Austria. Music is universal. It is an indispensable link between peoples. You at RRI understand this very well, as your music programmes and the Romanian jazz we enjoy so much demonstrate. Still, I believe the most important thing is for us, as peoples, to understand one another and open ourselves to others. You at Radio Romania International know this very well, and I thank you for continuing your French-language and shortwave broadcasts. You work hard to produce programmes that captivate us, interest us and encourage us to reflect.”
NOUARI NAGHMOUCHI – Algeria
“In a divided world, unity is essential to addressing contemporary challenges. Intercultural dialogue, global cooperation, shared values and diversity enrich our society and help us build a more equitable future. Fundamental values are the basic principles that shape our behavior, decisions and beliefs. These values serve as guiding points in our personal and professional lives. It is essential to understand both our own values and those of others. Among fundamental values, I would mention authenticity, freedom, balance and, above all, health. As for social values, I have in mind justice, respect and solidarity. When it comes to ethical values, I would highlight courage, responsibility and honesty.”
