NEXUS-International Broadcasting Association NEXUS-International Broadcasting Association Beyond Global Waves

The Voice of America (VOA), a cornerstone of US international broadcasting for 83 years, faced an abrupt cessation of operations on Saturday, March 15th, 2025, following an executive order by President Donald Trump. This order led to the placement of over 1,300 VOA employees on administrative leave, effectively silencing a media broadcaster operating in nearly 50 languages. The executive action targeted VOA's parent agency, the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), and included the termination of funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Radio Free Asia, news services crucial for providing information in countries with restricted media access. VOA Director Michael Abramowitz expressed deep sadness at the silencing of an institution that played a vital role in the fight for freedom and democracy, while press freedom advocates decried the move as undermining America's commitment to an independent press. Kari Lake, a Trump loyalist nominated to lead VOA, had previously described USAGM as 'not salvageable' and aimed to minimise its operations.

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