Today, Explained Silencing the Voice of America
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Mar 18, 2025 
Steve Herman, a longtime Voice of America correspondent and author, shares insights about the impact of recent government actions on the iconic broadcaster. Sarah Ellison, media reporter at The Washington Post, discusses Carrie Lake's controversial appointment and its implications for journalistic integrity. They explore the historical significance of VOA, its mission to deliver credible news, and the repercussions of its shutdown on global awareness. The conversation highlights the ongoing tensions between political influence and independent journalism.
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VOA's Struggle for Identity
- While initially under wartime censorship, VOA aimed to report truthfully.
- Post-war, its role was debated, but it gained support due to the rise of the Iron Curtain and its broadcasting into communist countries.
Reactions to VOA's Shutdown
- Autocratic regimes celebrate VOA's demise, while listeners in those countries are confused.
- The sudden halt in programming mimics what happens during coups, raising concerns.
Importance of VOA
- VOA listeners are concerned about the shutdown, as it signals instability.
- Americans, as stakeholders, should care about VOA as a cost-effective public diplomacy tool.
