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- President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to dismantle Voice of America (VOA) and other U.S.-backed global media outlets.
- The move targets the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees VOA, Radio Free Asia, and other pro-democracy media platforms.
- This decision has sparked widespread criticism from journalists, media organizations, and international groups advocating for press freedom.
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Essential Context
President Trump’s executive order aims to significantly reduce or eliminate the operations of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which includes Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. These outlets have been crucial in promoting democratic values and providing independent journalism to global audiences, especially in regions with limited press freedom.
Core Players
- President Trump – President of the United States
- Kari Lake – Special adviser to USAGM, former news anchor and Arizona political candidate
- U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) – Oversees VOA, Radio Free Asia, and other global media outlets
- Voice of America (VOA) – Global news broadcaster established in 1942
Key Numbers
- 1,300 – Number of VOA staff members placed on administrative leave
- 427 million – Approximate audience reach of USAGM’s media platforms
- 1942 – Year Voice of America was established
- 1976 – Year VOA’s charter was signed into law by President Gerald Ford
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The Catalyst
President Trump’s long-standing animosity towards Voice of America and other USAGM outlets has culminated in this executive order. President Trump has repeatedly criticized VOA, suggesting it does not align with his administration’s views.
“The decision to dismantle one of America’s greatest national assets will inflict profound harm on the U.S. image, its global interests, and the promotion of democratic values — damage that no adversary could ever achieve,” said Elez Biberaj, former acting director of VOA.
Inside Forces
The order follows President Trump’s broader effort to reduce the operations of several small government agencies and offices. Kari Lake, appointed as a special adviser to USAGM, has been instrumental in implementing these changes, labeling USAGM as the “most corrupt agency in Washington DC.”
Lake has announced plans to cancel contracts, reduce personnel, and save funds, reflecting the administration’s intent to minimize non-statutorily required activities.
Power Dynamics
The Trump administration’s move has significant implications for the balance of power in global media. By dismantling these outlets, the administration is reducing the U.S.’s ability to promote democratic values and counter authoritarian propaganda.
High-profile journalists and news associations have condemned the move, emphasizing the importance of VOA in maintaining press freedom and independent journalism globally.
Outside Impact
The shutdown of VOA and other USAGM outlets will have far-reaching consequences. It will likely strengthen the influence of authoritarian regimes, such as China, North Korea, and Russia, which have long been targets of these media platforms.
Reporters Without Borders has expressed strong disapproval, urging the U.S. government to restore VOA and calling on Congress and the global community to respond to this action.
Future Forces
The future of U.S. global media outreach remains uncertain. The termination of grants for Radio Free Asia and other programs under USAGM management signals a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and its approach to promoting democracy.
Key stakeholders, including former VOA leadership and international media ethics consultants, warn that without these outlets, the U.S. will struggle to convey its message globally and counter adversarial narratives.
Data Points
- March 15, 2025 – President Trump signs the executive order to dismantle USAGM
- March 16, 2025 – Staff at VOA and other USAGM outlets are placed on administrative leave
- 1942 – Year Voice of America was established
- 1976 – Year VOA’s charter was signed into law by President Gerald Ford
- 427 million – Approximate audience reach of USAGM’s media platforms
The dismantling of Voice of America and other USAGM outlets marks a significant departure from the U.S.’s historical role in promoting democratic values and press freedom globally. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will impact U.S. foreign policy and the global media landscape.
