Broadcasting on shortwave radio offers several advantages over other forms of communication, particularly in times of war or other disruptions. In Ukraine, where the war is has disrupted local AM and FM radio, Shortwave radio can provide an essential source of information and connection for people in the affected areas.

Media and local AM & FM radio disruption in Ukraine

One of the critical advantages of Shortwave radio is its ability to reach a wide area. Unlike local AM and FM radio, which are limited in range and can be disrupted by interference from the war, listeners can listen to Shortwave radio broadcasts in several languages across vast distances. This means that people in remote or isolated areas can access important information and news, even when other forms of communication are unavailable.

Advantages of broadcasting on Shortwave to conflict zones

listening to Medium Wave and Shortwave radio in Ukraine

Another advantage of Shortwave radio broadcasting is its resilience to interference. Unlike other forms of radio, shortwave signals can travel long distances through the atmosphere, making them less susceptible to interference from physical obstacles or other sources. This makes shortwave radio an ideal choice for providing reliable communication in times of crisis or emergency.

Advantages of broadcasting on Shortwave In case of emergency

NEXUS-IBA’s International Broadcasting services can be activated even on short notice to broadcast in case of international emergencies using frequencies allocated for International Radio for Disaster Relief (IRDR). This is an initiative supported by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the HFCC, the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) and the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) intended to broadcast special radio programs in any language and to any world target affected by an international emergency on particular shortwave frequencies that have been kept available internationally for such use.

Professional radio stations, amateur radio enthusiasts and the military have used Shortwave radio to communicate in emergencies such as natural disasters, war, epidemics or other events that disrupt normal communication channels. Since shortwave radio signals can travel thousands of miles beyond national borders, they are a valuable asset during international emergencies.

In addition to its broad reach and interference resilience, shortwave radio offers the advantage of being relatively easy and inexpensive to receive. Unlike local AM and FM radio, which require specialized equipment and infrastructure on the target, shortwave radio can be broadcast from abroad and usually very far away using powerful transmitters and directional antennas. This makes it possible for individuals and organizations to outsource broadcasting on Shortwave, escape strict media control or censorship from local authorities,  and provide a valuable source of information and connection for people in the target areas.

Shortwave and Medium Wave (AM) advantages for international broadcasting

In conclusion, broadcasting on shortwave radio offers several advantages over other forms of communication. For example, this has been particularly true in recent conflicts in Iran, Iraq, the ex-republic of Yugoslavia, and Ukraine, particularly in times of war or other disruptions. With its broad reach, resilience to interference, and ease of setup, Shortwave radio can provide an essential source of information and connection for people in the affected areas.