Celebrated annually on April 23, World Book and Copyright Day is a significant occasion dedicated to promoting the enjoyment of books and reading. This date holds special meaning in the literary world, as it marks the anniversaries of the deaths of renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. Established by UNESCO in 1995, the day encourages people worldwide to access books and honour the contributions of authors and publishers to culture and society.

The celebration encompasses various activities aimed at fostering a love for literature and advocating for the protection of intellectual property rights. In 2025, World Book and Copyright Day will carry a unique theme that intertwines literature with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising books’ vital role in achieving educational and social objectives.

One of the primary reasons World Book and Copyright Day is important is its role in promoting reading, particularly among younger generations. The day encourages individuals to explore literature in various forms, fostering a love for books and storytelling. By engaging people in reading activities, the day aims to enhance imagination, creativity, and critical thinking skills, which are essential for personal development and lifelong learning.

Another crucial aspect of World Book and Copyright Day is its focus on copyright protection. The event raises awareness about the importance of copyright laws that safeguard the rights of authors and publishers. These laws ensure that creators receive fair compensation for their work, encouraging them to continue producing literature that enriches society. By emphasising the need for copyright protection, the day advocates for a vibrant literary landscape where creativity can flourish without fear of exploitation.

The theme for World Book and Copyright Day 2025 focuses on the intersection of literature and sustainable development. It aims to highlight how literature can contribute to various SDGs. Literature is fundamental in promoting lifelong learning opportunities. The day will feature sessions discussing how books can enhance education systems globally. The celebration will spotlight works amplifying women’s voices, showcasing literature’s role in advocating gender equality. Books are powerful tools for addressing social inequalities. Events will highlight authors and narratives that challenge societal disparities. Literary expressions often reflect themes of peace and justice. The day will explore how literature influences global institutions and governance. In addition to these themes, workshops will be organised to delve into the importance of copyright in a digital age, emphasising how protecting intellectual property rights is crucial for sustainable growth in the literary sector.

World Book and Copyright Day is not merely a celebration of literature; it serves as a platform to discuss how books can drive action towards achieving sustainable development. Integrating SDGs into the celebrations reflects a broader understanding of literature’s impact on society. By promoting reading, UNESCO aims to foster a culture that values knowledge sharing, creativity, and diversity.

In conjunction with World Book and Copyright Day, UNESCO has designated Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the World Book Capital for 2025. This recognition follows previous capitals such as Accra (2023) and Strasbourg (2024). Rio de Janeiro is celebrated for its rich literary heritage and its commitment to promoting reading among diverse populations.

Rio de Janeiro’s selection as World Book Capital is significant for several reasons. The city boasts a vibrant literary scene that reflects its diverse culture. It has produced numerous influential writers who have shaped Brazilian literature. Rio de Janeiro has outlined a comprehensive action plan aimed at promoting literacy, education, and sustainable publishing. This plan includes initiatives targeting young people and leveraging digital technologies to engage readers. The city’s project aims to affect social change by addressing issues such as poverty eradication through literacy programs. By fostering a reading culture, Rio de Janeiro seeks to create sustainable economic benefits aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Throughout the year, Rio de Janeiro will host a series of events designed to promote books and reading across all age groups. These activities will include literary festivals and celebrations featuring local authors, readings, book signings, and discussions on literary topics; educational programes and initiatives aimed at schools to encourage reading among students through workshops and interactive sessions; and community engagement and programmes designed to reach underserved communities, ensuring equitable access to books and literacy resources. By implementing these initiatives, Rio de Janeiro aims to inspire other cities around the world to recognise the importance of fostering a culture of reading.

World Book and Copyright Day serves as an essential reminder of the power of literature in shaping societies. Today it is clear that books are more than just sources of entertainment; they are vital tools for education, advocacy, and social change. The designation of Rio de Janeiro as World Book Capital underscores the city’s commitment to promoting literacy while celebrating its rich literary heritage. By engaging communities through various activities throughout the year, Rio de Janeiro will exemplify how cities can harness the transformative power of books to create inclusive societies.