WASHINGTON, March 15,
2025 /PRNewswire/ -- National Press Club President
Mike Balsamo today issued the
following statement after reports that large numbers of Voice of
America journalists have been placed on indefinite leave, just a
day after the White House ordered a significant downsizing to VOA's
parent agency, the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM):
"The mass sidelining of Voice of America journalists, coming
just hours after an order to gut its parent agency, raises urgent
questions about the future of one of the world's most important
independent news organizations. This isn't just about cutting an
agency — it's about whether VOA can continue its mission at
all.
For decades, Voice of America has delivered fact-based,
independent journalism to audiences worldwide, often in places
where press freedom does not exist. Removing large numbers of its
journalists at the same time as dismantling USAGM threatens the
very foundation that has allowed VOA to operate without political
interference.
If an entire newsroom can be sidelined overnight, what does that
say about the state of press freedom? This move not only puts VOA's
credibility at risk but also undermines America's long-standing
commitment to a free and independent press.
These suspensions come amid growing concerns over press freedom,
including the earlier suspension of Steve
Herman, a veteran journalist and member of the National
Press Club Board of Governors. His removal weeks ago was widely
viewed as politically motivated, and now, VOA as a whole faces an
even greater disruption.
Steve Herman's suspension was a
warning sign. Now, an entire institution is being dismantled piece
by piece. This isn't just a staffing decision — it's a fundamental
shift that endangers the future of independent journalism at
VOA.
The National Press Club urges Congress and the public to demand
transparency and accountability regarding these mass suspensions
and to ensure that Voice of America remains an independent,
fact-based news organization — free to do its work without
interference.
About the National Press Club
Founded in 1908,
the National Press Club is the world's leading professional
organization for journalists. The Club has more than 2,500 members
representing nearly every major journalism organization. The Club
and its Press Freedom Center are leading voices on press freedom
matters in the U.S. and worldwide.
Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the Press
Freedom Center at the National Press Club
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SOURCE National Press Club
