Emran Emon

Every year on April 23, readers, writers, publishers, educators, and students across the world unite to celebrate World Book and Copyright Day. Established by UNESCO in 1995, this day is more than just a nod to literature—it’s a tribute to the power of books to connect humanity, shape ideas, and safeguard cultural heritage. It is also a timely reminder of the importance of copyright, an often misunderstood but essential pillar of creative protection. As we celebrate this day, let us explore its dual significance: the timeless relevance of books in our lives, and the ethical responsibility to respect intellectual property in the digital age.

Books are among the most democratic tools humanity has ever known. Regardless of geography, class, language or age, anyone can open a book and enter a new world—real or imagined. Stories connect us with others’ lives, helping us understand experiences vastly different from our own. In this way, reading fosters empathy, reduces prejudice, and cultivates a deeper sense of shared humanity.

It’s essential that the publishing and literary world continues to prioritize inclusivity—both in terms of who gets to write and what stories are told. Representation matters in this regard. Readers from marginalized communities deserve to see themselves reflected in literature not just as side characters or victims, but as protagonists and creators. Promoting diverse voices is not just an ethical imperative—it enriches the literary landscape with perspectives that challenge, inspire, and inform.

Efforts like translated literature, bilingual publishing, and accessibility tools (like audiobooks and Braille editions) are key to making reading truly inclusive. Let World Book Day serve as a reminder that books should be for everyone, everywhere.

The digital age has changed the way we read. E-books, audiobooks, and online platforms have made literature more accessible than ever. With a smartphone or e-reader, one can carry an entire library in a pocket. For people with visual impairments or mobility challenges, or those in remote areas, digital literature is nothing short of revolutionary. However, this technological advancement also brings challenges—chief among them the unauthorized reproduction and distribution of content. Piracy robs creators of their livelihood and disrespects the labor behind every published work. Just because content is available online doesn’t mean it is free to take. It is evident that the copier carries out the content under their own name without giving credit to the original owner, which constitutes a violation of copyright law.

Copyright is not about restriction, it is about recognition and protection. It ensures that authors, illustrators, and publishers receive credit and compensation for their work. Without it, the creative economy would be unsustainable. Copyright also empowers writers to control how their works are used, preventing distortion or misuse.

Unfortunately, there is still a gap in understanding when it comes to copyright, especially among young digital natives. Copying, sharing, or modifying content without permission—even for “non-commercial” use—can infringe on someone’s legal and moral rights. Education on this subject is crucial, not to instill fear, but to nurture respect for intellectual labor. This World Book and Copyright Day, schools, colleges, and online platforms can play an active role in demystifying copyright laws, promoting fair use, and encouraging ethical digital behavior.

Books are more than tools for literacy—they are keys to lifelong learning. In an age where misinformation spreads rapidly, books—particularly those grounded in research and edited with rigor—serve as trustworthy sources. Cultivating reading habits is thus not only an educational goal but a civic responsibility.

Governments and civil societies must continue to invest in libraries—both physical and digital—and support policies that put books in the hands of those who need them most: children in underfunded schools, communities recovering from conflict, or refugees rebuilding lives in new lands. Organizations across the world are doing remarkable work in this space. Initiatives like mobile libraries, book donations, community reading programs, and open access platforms are making sure no reader is left behind.

We must not forget that behind every book is a writer—a person who dared to dream, to question, to record, to imagine. Many have risked their lives to write truth to power. Others have opened up new realms of possibility for young minds who never thought they belonged in books.

This day is an opportunity to honor those voices—past and present. From William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes (both of whom died on April 23, making the date symbolic), to contemporary writers working in conflict zones, literature remains an act of courage and hope. Aspiring writers should be encouraged to write in their own voice, in their own language, about their own lives. We should create ecosystems where creativity is nurtured, not stifled by gatekeeping or censorship.

Books open minds and hearts, offering both mirrors to see ourselves and windows to understand others. In the words of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, “Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.”

In Bangladesh, the culture of reading books beyond academic necessity remains underdeveloped compared to many other countries. While literacy rates have improved, the habit of reading for pleasure, critical thinking, or personal growth is still lacking, especially among youth. Several factors contribute to this gap: an exam-focused education system, limited access to well-equipped libraries, high book prices, and the growing influence of digital entertainment and social media. In contrast, countries with strong reading cultures—such as Finland, Japan or South Korea—embed reading into daily life through school systems, public libraries, and national campaigns. These nations benefit from populations that are more innovative, empathetic, and civically engaged.

Bangladesh’s weak reading habits limit intellectual growth, reduce creativity, and hinder informed participation in society. It also affects the development of communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural awareness—skills vital in a globalized economy. To change this, Bangladesh needs to promote reading through educational reforms, community libraries, affordable book publishing, and digital reading platforms. Parents, schools, media, and policymakers must work together to create a society where reading is seen as both a joy and a necessity. Cultivating a strong reading culture is key to building a more enlightened, inclusive, and capable nation.

World Book and Copyright Day is not just a celebration—it’s a call to action. A call to create a culture that values books as bridges between people, not barriers. A culture where creativity is rewarded, not exploited. And a future where everyone, regardless of background, has both the right to read and the right to be read. As we turn the pages of our favorite books this April 23, let us also turn a new page in our collective effort to make the world more literate, inclusive, and respectful of the creative spirit that binds us all.

The writer is a researcher, journalist and columnist. He can be reached at emoncolumnist@gmail.com