By Editorial Team 
In a shocking move, former US President Donald Trump has effectively shut down Voice of America (VOA) by placing several key staff members on administrative leave. The decision has raised concerns about press freedom and government interference in independent media.
Voice of America, the US government-funded international broadcaster, has been a key source of news and information globally since its founding in 1942. Trump’s decision to silence the network comes amid ongoing criticism of its coverage, which he previously labeled as “un-American” and “biased.”
According to insiders, Trump’s order targeted senior VOA editors and reporters, citing alleged “mismanagement” and “failure to uphold American values.” However, critics argue that the move is politically motivated and aimed at controlling the network’s narrative.
“This is an unprecedented attack on press freedom. Voice of America has always operated independently — until now,” said a senior VOA staff member who spoke anonymously.
- Trump has long criticized VOA’s reporting, accusing it of promoting narratives favorable to adversaries like China and Iran.
- The White House has not provided a detailed explanation for the staff suspensions or when operations might resume.
- Media watchdogs and press freedom organizations have condemned the action, calling it a dangerous step toward media censorship.
- Voice of America broadcasts in over 40 languages to more than 280 million people worldwide each week.
- Shutting down VOA or influencing its editorial independence could weaken America’s soft power and credibility on the global stage.
- Press freedom advocates warn that this sets a dangerous precedent for political interference in independent journalism.
International media organizations and human rights groups have urged the US government to protect VOA’s editorial independence. The Biden administration has yet to issue an official statement on whether it will challenge Trump’s decision.
Legal experts expect that lawsuits could follow, challenging the legitimacy of Trump’s authority over VOA’s operations. Meanwhile, VOA’s international staff remains uncertain about the future of their work.