UNESCO celebrates World Book and Copyright Day on April 23 every year, recognising the power of books as a bridge between generations and cultures. The day highlights the role of books in promoting knowledge, creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
As part of the annual celebrations, UNESCO, along with global publishing stakeholders (publishers, booksellers, and libraries), designates a World Book Capital to promote reading and the book industry.
Background and Origin
World Book and Copyright Day was formally established in November 1995 by UNESCO.
- The proposal was communicated by Federico Mayor, then Director-General of UNESCO, to the Spanish Publishers Association
- The day was first celebrated on 23 April 1996 in Barcelona, during the 25th International Publishers Congress marking the 100th anniversary of the International Publishers Association (IPA)
- The date, April 23, was chosen to commemorate the death anniversaries (1616) of three literary giants: William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, Inca Garcilaso de la Vega
World Book Capital Initiative
UNESCO selects one city each year as the World Book Capital, which undertakes activities to promote books and reading.
- Since inception, 26 cities have been designated
- The first World Book Capital was Madrid (Spain) in 2001
- The initiative focuses on: Promoting reading habits, Strengthening publishing ecosystems, Encouraging cultural diversity and education
World Book Capital 2026
Rabat in Morocco has been designated as the World Book Capital for 2026.
- The city has 54 publishing houses
- Hosts the third-largest international book fair in Africa
- Has a growing network of bookstores contributing to its creative economy
As World Book Capital, Rabat will:
- Promote access to books and knowledge
- Support local publishing industry growth
- Implement initiatives aimed at sustainable economic and social development
- For 2027, Medellin has been selected as the next World Book Capital.
UNESCO Initiatives Supporting Reading Ecosystems
UNESCO supports literacy and publishing through global initiatives:
Centroamerica Lectora Project (2020–2023):
- Funded by AECID
- Expanded access to books in El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua
International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD):
- Supports publishing sector growth
- Current project in Ethiopia focuses on children’s and youth literature