In a move that has sparked widespread debate, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order to dismantle the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), the organization overseeing Voice of America (VOA) and other international broadcasting efforts. This decision, which took effect immediately, has placed over 1,300 VOA journalists and staff on administrative leave, marking a significant shift in America’s approach to global media and diplomacy.
Voice of America, established in 1942 during World War II, has long been a cornerstone of U.S. international broadcasting. Its mission has been to provide accurate, objective, and comprehensive news to audiences worldwide, particularly in regions with limited press freedom. The abrupt closure of VOA and its parent agency has raised concerns about the future of global media, press freedom, and America’s role in countering propaganda.
The Executive Order and Its Immediate Impact
The executive order, signed on Friday, calls for the dissolution of the USAGM, which manages VOA and other diplomatic news outlets like Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty. According to a Facebook post by VOA Director Michael Abramowitz, the decision has left more than 1,300 employees in limbo, with many placed on administrative leave.
Kari Lake, the USAGM’s special adviser and a former television news anchor, celebrated the move on social media, calling the agency “pound-for-pound the most corrupt in Washington, D.C.” A press release from the agency echoed this sentiment, labeling it a “national security risk” and a “burden to the American taxpayer.”
The decision also severed contracts with major wire services like The Associated Press, Reuters, and Agence France-Presse, further limiting the reach of U.S.-funded international news.
Voice of America: A Legacy of Press Freedom
Since its inception, VOA has served as a beacon of independent journalism, delivering uncensored news to millions worldwide. Operating in nearly 50 languages, VOA reaches an estimated weekly audience of 354 million people, making it the largest U.S. international broadcaster.
The organization has consistently emphasized its commitment to accuracy, objectivity, and comprehensive reporting, particularly in countries where press freedom is restricted. Its closure represents a significant departure from America’s longstanding tradition of promoting free and open media as a tool of diplomacy.
Reactions from the Journalism Community
The Society for Professional Journalists (SPJ) condemned the decision, calling it a “dark moment in the history of press freedom.” SPJ President Emily Bloch noted that VOA’s shuttering accomplishes what oppressive regimes like the former Soviet Union and modern-day dictators could not: silencing a source of fair and accurate reporting.
The European Commission also expressed concern, warning that the move “risks benefiting our common adversaries.” Critics argue that the closure of VOA and its sister outlets creates a void that authoritarian regimes will exploit to spread their own propaganda.
Trump’s Long-Standing Criticism of VOA
Trump’s relationship with VOA has been contentious since his presidency. He frequently criticized the organization for its coverage, accusing it of being “out of step with America” and promoting “divisive propaganda.” His appointment of Kari Lake, a former journalist turned political candidate, as the USAGM’s special adviser further fueled concerns about the politicization of the agency.
Last week, Trump’s frustration with VOA became personal when he insulted a VOA reporter during a question-and-answer session. These actions, combined with the executive order, reflect a broader pattern of hostility toward independent media under his administration.
Global Implications: A Win for Authoritarian Regimes
The closure of VOA has been met with celebration in some corners of the world. Chinese state media, including the Global Times, hailed the decision, labeling VOA a “propaganda machine” responsible for spreading “malicious falsehoods” about China. Influencers and nationalist outlets in China have also applauded the move, viewing it as a victory for their own state-controlled media apparatus.
This reaction underscores the broader implications of VOA’s demise. Without a credible counter-narrative, authoritarian regimes may find it easier to control information and suppress dissent within their borders.
Key Takeaways
- Executive Order: Trump’s decision to dismantle the USAGM has placed over 1,300 VOA employees on administrative leave and severed contracts with major wire services.
- Legacy of VOA: Established in 1942, VOA has been a global leader in independent journalism, reaching 354 million people weekly in nearly 50 languages.
- Press Freedom Concerns: The closure of VOA has been widely criticized as a blow to press freedom and a win for authoritarian regimes.
- Global Reactions: While U.S. allies express concern, authoritarian states like China have celebrated the move.
Final Thoughts
The shuttering of Voice of America marks a pivotal moment in the history of U.S. international broadcasting. While the decision has been framed as a cost-cutting measure and a response to perceived bias, its broader implications for press freedom and global diplomacy cannot be ignored.
As the world grapples with the rise of disinformation and state-controlled media, the loss of VOA leaves a significant void in the fight for truth and transparency. Whether this decision will be revisited or reversed remains to be seen, but its impact on global media and America’s role as a champion of free speech will be felt for years to come.
