On 18 April 2026, the world celebrates World Amateur Radio Day (WARD). On this day in 1925, the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) was founded in Paris — this year marks the 101st anniversary. The 2026 theme: “Advancing the Spirit of Amateur Radio Through Innovation”.
Over three million licensed radio amateurs worldwide use this day to showcase the hobby, open their stations and — above all — inspire young people to discover amateur radio.
Children are allowed on air — officially!
What many don’t know: In Austria, unlicensed children and young people may send a greeting message via amateur radio on World Amateur Radio Day — completely legally. The Austrian telecommunications authority has issued a corresponding permit (Sprecherlaubnis 2026) to the ÖVSV.
The rules are clear:
- Greeting messages may only be sent under the immediate and constant supervision of a licensed radio amateur.
- Children may speak into the microphone and listen through the speaker — nothing more.
- The PTT button, frequency tuning and all controls must be operated by the licensed amateur.
- The licensed operator remains fully responsible for proper conduct of the radio traffic.
Legal basis: §151 and §188 TKG 2021. The full permit is available as a PDF on the ÖVSV website.
Why does this matter?
Amateur radio depends on new blood. The average age in many local clubs has been rising for years. At the same time, children’s fascination with technology, communication and the adventure of “talking to the world” has never been greater.
World Amateur Radio Day is the perfect opportunity to show young people what amateur radio can do. Not with theory and regulations — but by putting the microphone in their hands and saying: “Go ahead, say something.”
A child who has spoken live via radio to someone in another country never forgets it. That is the moment a spark jumps — quite literally.
What can you do?
- Open your shacks: Invite neighbours’ children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren. Show them the equipment, let them listen — and then speak.
- Activate your club stations: In Innsbruck, the Tirol regional federation is opening on 18 April from 10:00 to 14:00 — children can send greeting messages under supervision.
- Take it outside: Combine the day with a SOTA activation or a Field Day — children love outdoor adventures with technology.
- Use simple modes: FM on 2m or 70cm via a local repeater — instantly understandable for children and quick results.
- Spread the word: Post photos (with parents’ permission!) in your groups. Show that amateur radio is not just a retirees’ hobby.
More dates with speaking permits in 2026
World Amateur Radio Day isn’t the only occasion. The permit also covers:
- 3 January / 20 June: Kids Days
- 23 April: Girls Day
- 5 May: European School Station Day
- 9–10 May / 26 September: YHOTA (Young Helpers on the Air)
- 1 June / 20 September: International Children’s Day / World Children’s Day
- 12 August: International Youth Day
- 16–18 October: JOTA (Jamboree on the Air — Scouts)
- 12 November: Boys Day
On all these days, children may speak greeting messages into the microphone under supervision.
The next generation is waiting
Amateur radio has more to offer young people today than ever: from SDR receivers for 30 euros to digital modes, APRS and satellite communication. The amateur radio exam is achievable — and getting started is more affordable than many think.
So: on 18 April, hand over the microphone. Not just on this day — but on this day especially.
#WorldAmateurRadioDay #WARD2026
73 — your oeradio.at editorial team
Transparency Notice
This article was researched and written with the assistance of AI (Claude, Anthropic). The editorial team has reviewed and edited all content. Despite careful review, occasional inaccuracies may occur — we welcome corrections via email to [email protected].
Not a radio amateur yet? Our article Amateur Radio as a Hobby — What to Expect and What Does It Cost? shows you how to get started.
