President Donald Trump has issued an executive order aimed at dismantling the Voice of America (VOA), a federally funded news organization that has been a cornerstone of U.S. global influence since World War II. This decision not only affects VOA but also impacts other U.S.-funded media outlets through United States Agency for Global Media like Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia, which have long provided independent news coverage to regions under authoritarian regimes.
Established in 1942, VOA was created to counter Nazi propaganda and has since become a vital tool for promoting democracy and providing unbiased news to hundreds of millions worldwide, particularly in countries lacking a free press.
The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) reaches an estimated 420 million people weekly in 100+ countries and 63+ languages through its five networks.
Trump’s executive order, which accuses VOA of spreading “radical propaganda,” has placed over 1,300 employees on administrative leave and terminated contracts for about 500 contractors.
Critics argue that dismantling VOA will significantly undermine U.S. soft power and create a vacuum that adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran can exploit to disseminate their own narratives. Michael Abramowitz, VOA’s director, expressed concern that this decision will allow anti-American propaganda to dominate international airwaves, posing a threat to national security.
Press freedom organizations and journalists have condemned the move, warning that it will severely damage independent journalism in repressive countries where VOA and similar outlets often serve as the only reliable sources of news. The Committee to Protect Journalists described the decision as a “reward to dictators and despots,” urging Congress to intervene.
Chinese state media have welcomed Trump’s decision, labeling VOA a “lie factory” and criticizing its coverage of China’s human rights record and other sensitive issues. European leaders have expressed dismay over the cuts to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, with some exploring ways to fill the funding gap.
The legality of Trump’s executive order may be challenged, as agencies like the U.S. Agency for Global Media were established by Congress and may argue against such drastic changes. Advocacy groups are considering legal actions to reinstate VOA journalists and protect the organization’s editorial independence.
