World Book, Copyright Day observed globally with renewed focus on reading culture

The world today celebrated World Book and Copyright Day, an annual occasion dedicated to promoting reading, publishing, and the protection of intellectual property through copyright laws

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 23rd Apr, 2026) The world today celebrated World Book and Copyright Day, an annual occasion dedicated to promoting reading, publishing, and the protection of intellectual property through copyright laws.

Marked every year on April 23 under the auspices of United Nations Education and Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the day highlighted the importance of books as a bridge between generations and cultures. The date also held symbolic significance in world literature, as it commemorated the deaths of literary giants like William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes.

Across the globe, educational institutions, libraries, and cultural organizations organized book fairs, reading sessions, and literary discussions to encourage a love for books, especially among young people. Digital campaigns also gained traction this year, reflecting the growing role of technology in reading habits.

In Pakistan, various schools, universities, and literary bodies observed the day by holding seminars and awareness campaigns emphasizing the value of reading and the need to respect authors’ rights. Experts stressed that in the digital age, protecting copyright was more crucial than ever to support writers, researchers, and content creators.

UNESCO, in its message for 2026, urged governments and communities to strengthen reading ecosystems and ensured access to books for all, particularly in developing regions. The organization also highlighted the role of books in fostering education, creativity, and sustainable development.

World Book and Copyright Day served as a reminder that books were not just sources of knowledge but powerful tools for social change, cultural understanding, and intellectual growth.